Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Delightfully creamy, gently sweet, and bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor, these Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are the ultimate holiday treat. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and vintage charm bring warmth to any festive gathering, making them a nostalgic favorite for young and old alike. With their pastel swirls and delicate floral shapes, they add a touch of magic to dessert tables and gift boxes.

Whether you’re setting a cozy holiday table, filling up candy jars, or gifting homemade treats to friends and neighbors, these soft mints are a timeless confection that elevates the holiday spirit. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade butter mints are fresher, softer, and customizable—perfect for those who love a hands-on holiday kitchen project.

Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

• Buttery, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Classic peppermint flavor with a soft finish.
• Beautiful festive appearance that brightens any holiday table.
• Easy to make in large batches for parties or gifting.
• Long shelf life when stored properly.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make these soft butter mints, having the right tools on hand can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer: Essential for creaming the butter and gradually incorporating powdered sugar to achieve the fluffy, smooth dough consistency.
• Mixing bowls: A large bowl for mixing the dough and smaller ones for dividing and coloring it.
• Food coloring (gel-based preferred): To create the vibrant holiday hues without altering the consistency.
• Peppermint extract: The heart of the flavor. Always opt for pure peppermint extract for authentic taste.
• Piping bags or candy molds (optional): Molds help shape the mints beautifully, especially for holiday themes.
• Parchment paper or silicone mat: For drying the mints evenly and cleanly.

Preparation Tips

Use softened, unsalted butter at room temperature for the creamiest texture. Don’t rush the mixing process; gradually add the powdered sugar to avoid a dry or crumbly dough. If using food coloring, start with a small amount and build up—gel-based options offer more vivid color without watering down the mixture. Allow the mints to dry at room temperature for several hours or overnight to achieve the perfect consistency. If you’re using candy molds, lightly dust them with powdered sugar to ensure easy release.

Ingredients for this Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (omit if using salted butter)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
• Gel food coloring (red, green, or your choice of festive colors)
• Optional: Decorative candy molds or cookie cutters

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Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by placing the softened unsalted butter in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the butter on medium speed until it’s light and fluffy. This should take about 2–3 minutes. Soft, aerated butter is crucial for achieving that signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.

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Step 2: Add the Cream and Peppermint Extract

Slowly mix in the heavy cream and peppermint extract. Blend until the mixture is fully combined. The cream adds a silky richness while the peppermint brings that classic holiday zing. Mix for another minute until smooth.

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Step 3: Gradually Incorporate Powdered Sugar

With your mixer on low speed, begin adding the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time. Be patient and scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Once all the sugar is added, turn the mixer to medium-high and beat until the dough is thick yet pliable, similar to soft playdough.

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Step 4: Divide and Color the Dough

Separate the dough into as many portions as you’d like to color. Add a small amount of gel food coloring to each portion and knead it in by hand or with gloved hands until evenly distributed. Use red and green for classic Christmas colors, or add a touch of white for contrast.

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Step 5: Shape the Mints

Roll each portion of dough into a rope about 1/2-inch thick, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, press the dough into small decorative candy molds dusted with powdered sugar to create floral or holiday shapes.

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Step 6: Let Them Dry

Place the shaped mints on a parchment-lined tray in a single layer. Allow them to air-dry at room temperature for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for best results. Once they develop a firm outer layer while staying soft inside, they’re ready to enjoy.

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Step 7: Store and Serve

Transfer the mints to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store them in a cool, dry place. These are perfect for party platters, gifting in jars, or enjoying as an after-dinner treat during the holiday season.

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Notes

These soft Christmas peppermints are extremely versatile. You can adjust the flavor intensity by using more or less peppermint extract to suit your preference. If you want a more tender bite, increase the heavy cream slightly, but be cautious—too much liquid can make the dough sticky and difficult to handle. For a truly artisanal finish, consider adding natural flavor infusions like vanilla or almond extract in small quantities to complement the peppermint. The drying process is key to the final texture; be patient and let them rest properly for the best mouthfeel.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using cold butter: This prevents the mixture from blending properly, resulting in a lumpy dough.
• Adding all the sugar at once: It can create a powdery mess and uneven consistency.
• Overmixing the dough after adding sugar: Can lead to a greasy or stiff texture.
• Using liquid food coloring: This may alter the dough’s moisture balance. Stick with gel or paste-based colors.
• Skipping the drying phase: Makes the mints sticky and too soft for storage or gifting.

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Storage Instructions

Once fully dried, transfer the butter mints to an airtight container lined with parchment paper between layers. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 weeks in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 3 months. When serving from the fridge or freezer, let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best texture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 3-4 mints (approx. 20g)

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 20mg
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Sugars: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different flavor extract instead of peppermint?

Yes, vanilla, almond, or even citrus extracts can be used to customize the flavor.

How long do the mints take to dry completely?

Typically 4–6 hours, but overnight is best for a firmer outer shell.

Can I make these dairy-free?

You can try using a plant-based butter and non-dairy cream alternative, but the texture may slightly differ.

Why is my dough too sticky?

Too much cream or warm conditions can cause this. Add a bit more powdered sugar and chill the dough briefly.

Can I use natural food coloring?

Absolutely. Powdered or gel-based natural dyes work well and won’t affect the dough consistency.

Are these safe for kids to help make?

Yes! Kids can help roll, color, and shape the dough—just supervise when using mixers and sharp tools.

Can I freeze the dough instead of the finished mints?

Yes. Wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before shaping.

How do I get perfect shapes using molds?

Lightly dust the mold with powdered sugar, press in the dough, and gently release. Chill if needed for clean edges.

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Conclusion

Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful homemade treat that blend tradition, creativity, and taste in one festive bite. Their smooth texture, cool peppermint flavor, and customizable colors make them ideal for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying during the holiday season. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll create a nostalgic candy that brightens any winter gathering.

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