Soft Christmas Peppermints, also known as Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, are a delightful treat that brings a classic touch to the holiday season. These mints have been a staple in festive celebrations for generations, offering a smooth, buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The tradition of making peppermint candies dates back to the 19th century when they were handmade in small batches. Today, they remain a favorite for their simplicity and rich flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or as thoughtful homemade gifts. To learn more about the history and variations of peppermint candies, you can visit Candy History. Crafting these mints is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients, making them an excellent project for bakers of all skill levels. The key to their irresistible texture lies in the careful blending of butter and confectioners’ sugar, creating a smooth base that pairs perfectly with the refreshing taste of peppermint. Join us as we explore the steps to creating these nostalgic treats, ensuring your holiday season is as sweet as can be.
Ingredients for Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Food coloring (optional)
- Granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions for Making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
- Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add the evaporated milk and peppermint extract, continuing to mix until the dough is smooth and well combined.
- If desired, divide the dough into portions and knead in a few drops of food coloring until the color is evenly distributed.
- Roll the dough into small balls, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
- Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
- Place the mints on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them set at room temperature for several hours or overnight until firm.
Nutritional Information
These delicious Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are a festive treat, but it’s essential to enjoy them in moderation due to their sugar content. Each serving (approximately 5 mints) contains about 150 calories, 3g of fat, 1.5g of saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 30mg sodium, 30g carbohydrates, 28g sugars, and 0g protein. While these mints are a delightful addition to your holiday menu, those watching their sugar intake should be cautious. For more detailed nutritional information, consider visiting NutritionData, which provides comprehensive profiles on various ingredients and foods. Remember, these mints are best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence during the festive season.
Cooking Tips and Variations
Making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) is a simple yet rewarding process. Here are some tips to ensure your mints turn out perfectly every time. First, ensure that your butter is at room temperature before beginning, as this will help achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. When adding the confectioners’ sugar, sift it beforehand to prevent any lumps in the dough. If you desire colored mints, use gel food coloring for more vibrant hues without altering the dough’s consistency. For a twist, experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond for varied flavors. If the dough feels too sticky, chill it briefly in the refrigerator to make it easier to handle. Finally, allow the mints to dry thoroughly at room temperature to achieve the ideal texture. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to create delicious and visually appealing mints that are perfect for any holiday occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Soft Christmas Peppermints make a delightful addition to any holiday gathering, offering a sweet and refreshing treat that guests are sure to enjoy. Arrange them in decorative bowls or jars as part of your holiday spread, or package them in festive bags or boxes for a charming homemade gift. You can also pair these mints with a selection of other holiday desserts, such as cookies and fudge, to create a beautiful dessert table display. These mints are also a perfect palate cleanser after a hearty holiday meal, offering a light and refreshing finish. For an extra touch of festivity, consider serving them alongside hot beverages like tea or cocoa, where their minty flavor can complement warm, comforting drinks. Whatever the occasion, these mints are sure to bring a touch of homemade charm to your celebrations.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the additional salt it adds to the recipe. You may want to reduce any extra salt you plan to add.
How long do these mints last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these mints can last up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider refrigerating them.
Can I use a different extract flavor?
Absolutely! While peppermint is traditional, you can substitute it with vanilla, almond, or any other flavor extract you prefer.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are a delightful, nostalgic treat that brings a touch of homemade charm to the holiday season. With their smooth texture and refreshing flavor, these mints are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a personal indulgence. We encourage you to try this recipe and bring a bit of sweet tradition to your holiday festivities. Don’t forget to share your creations and spread the holiday cheer!
Save This Recipe on Pinterest
