Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints Recipe
Introduction
Make your holiday season extra special with these Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints! These delightful candies are not only easy to make but also melt in your mouth, offering a perfect blend of sweetness and minty freshness. Ideal for gift-giving or as a festive treat at your holiday gatherings, this recipe will surely become a favorite!
Ingredients List
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): For sweetness and texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): For creaminess.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): For that classic mint flavor.
- Red food coloring (optional): For festive color.
- Cornstarch (for dusting): To prevent sticking.
Timing
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Chilling: 1 hour
- Total: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Color the Mixture (Optional)
- If using red food coloring, divide the mixture in half.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half and mix until you achieve your desired shade.
Step 3: Shape the Peppermints
- Dust your hands and a clean surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Take small portions of the white and red mixtures and roll them into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Flatten each ball slightly to form a disc shape. You can also use cookie cutters for fun shapes!
Step 4: Chill the Peppermints
- Place the shaped peppermint candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up.
Step 5: Serve
- Once chilled, your soft and sweet Christmas peppermints are ready to enjoy!
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information (per peppermint, based on 24 servings)
| Ingredient | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints | 50 | 0g | 12g | 0g |
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use natural sweeteners: Consider using powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option.
- Opt for sugar-free condensed milk: If available, to reduce sugar content.
Serving Suggestions
- Gift in decorative tins or treat bags for holiday gifts.
- Serve on a festive platter alongside other holiday treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not chilling long enough: Ensure you chill the candies adequately to achieve the right texture.
- Overmixing: Mix just until combined to maintain the soft texture.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
- Refrigerate for longer freshness, but allow to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
These Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints are a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing mint flavor, they make for perfect treats or gifts. Enjoy making and sharing these festive candies with family and friends!
FAQs
Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?
Yes! You can substitute peppermint extract with other flavors like vanilla, almond, or even chocolate for a different twist.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! These candies can be made up to two weeks in advance and stored properly.
What can I do if the mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky to handle, add a little more powdered sugar until you achieve a workable consistency.
Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints Recipe
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Chilling Time:
1 hour
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
- Powdered sugar (4 cups): For sweetness and texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): For creaminess.
- Peppermint extract (1 teaspoon): For that classic mint flavor.
- Red food coloring (optional): For festive color.
- Cornstarch (for dusting): To prevent sticking.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk.
- Add the peppermint extract and mix until well combined. The mixture should be thick and slightly sticky.
Step 2: Color the Mixture (Optional)
- If using red food coloring, divide the mixture in half.
- Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half and mix until you achieve your desired shade.
Step 3: Shape the Peppermints
- Dust your hands and a clean surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Take small portions of the white and red mixtures and roll them into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- Flatten each ball slightly to form a disc shape. You can also use cookie cutters for fun shapes!
Step 4: Chill the Peppermints
- Place the shaped peppermint candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up.
Step 5: Serve
- Once chilled, your soft and sweet Christmas peppermints are ready to enjoy!
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
