Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints Recipe

Homemade Soft and Sweet Christmas Peppermints on a festive background

By :

Emma

October 26, 2025

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

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Why make this recipe

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s a special magic in the air that invites us to create delicious treats. Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints are a delightful way to spread joy and holiday spirit. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and classic mint flavor, these homemade candies are not just a tasty treat; they make perfect gifts and decorations too! Imagine presenting a box of these beautiful sweets to friends and family or using them to adorn your festive table. They are simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients, yet the results are magical. Let’s dive in and discover how to bring these festive delights into your home.

How to make Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints

Making Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints is much easier than you might think. This recipe is simple and requires minimal effort. You’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time! Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started.

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.

Directions :

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.
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.
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!
Place the shaped peppermint candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow them to firm up.
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 benefits

These Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints not only delight your taste buds but also have some nutritional benefits. The sweetened condensed milk adds a bit of calcium, while the peppermint extract can aid digestion. Plus, if you use less food coloring, it keeps the candy a bit lighter. Remember, moderation is key, but enjoying a homemade treat every now and then is a sweet way to celebrate the season!

What to Serve With Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints

These delightful candies pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, coffee, or even tea. Imagine curling up with a warm drink and munching on these soft peppermints as you enjoy a cozy evening at home. They also work well in holiday gift baskets, alongside homemade cookies or fudge, creating a variety of sweet treats for your loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This

You’ll love these Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints for their delightful flavor and texture. They are not too hard, making them enjoyable for everyone, from kids to adults. The peppermint taste is refreshing, perfect for the holiday season. Plus, they are easy to modify; you can add more peppermint extract for a stronger flavor or other extracts like vanilla for a unique twist. The options are endless, and the best part is that they can be made together with family, creating memorable moments.

How to store Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints

Storing your Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints is easy! Just place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for a week or two if you keep them in a cool, dry place. If you want them to last longer, you can store them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for up to a month. Just make sure to let them return to room temperature before enjoying them if you choose the fridge!

Tips and mistakes to avoid

While making Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints is simple, here are some tips to ensure your success:

Measure accurately: Be precise with your measurements, especially for the powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Too much or too little can affect the texture.
Don’t skip the cornstarch: Dusting your hands and the surface with cornstarch is key to prevent the mixture from sticking to everything.
Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your peppermint extract and sweetened condensed milk have not expired for the best flavor.

Common mistakes to avoid include not allowing the candies to chill adequately. If they aren’t set properly, they may be too sticky to enjoy. Also, refrain from adding too much food coloring; a little goes a long way in adding that festive vibe!

Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Here are a few fun variations:

Mix flavors: Consider adding a drop of vanilla extract alongside the peppermint for a unique flavor twist.
Different colors: Instead of just red, try using green or even a mix of both for a festive look.
Dipped in chocolate: For a decadent treat, dip the finished candies in melted chocolate before allowing them to set.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?
No, sweetened condensed milk adds the right sweetness and creaminess that regular milk cannot replicate. It’s essential for the correct texture.

2. How do I make these without peppermint extract?
If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can substitute it with mint extract or even a different flavor extract to create a unique version of the candy!

3. Can I freeze these Christmas peppermints?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just ensure they are well covered in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. They can last for several months in the freezer.

Creating your own Soft & Sweet Christmas Peppermints is not only a festive activity but also brings joy to those who enjoy them. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can brighten up the holiday season with these delightful homemade candies. Enjoy making them, sharing them, and celebrating the season!