Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint has been a holiday staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I still recall helping my grandmother in her cozy kitchen, the air thick with the sweet, cool scent of peppermint as we pressed out these delightful candies. There’s something truly magical about a homemade treat, especially when it’s a melt-in-your-mouth experience that brings back so many cherished memories. This easy ground turkey dinner is not just candy; it’s a sprinkle of holiday cheer, a tiny burst of festive flavor that instantly transports you to a winter wonderland. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of making this recipe for soft peppermint candy yourself. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

I promise, you’re going to adore making and tasting this Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint for so many reasons!

• These treats offer an explosion of fresh, cool peppermint flavor that truly melts in your mouth.
• The prep time is incredibly fast, making them perfect for last-minute holiday gifting or unexpected guests.
• Making homemade soft peppermint is surprisingly budget-friendly, requiring just a few simple ingredients.
• It’s a fantastic family-friendly activity; kids love helping to knead and cut out the festive shapes.
• You’ll achieve that perfect chewy peppermint Christmas treats texture every single time.
• This recipe for homemade soft peppermint allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives.

Ingredients for Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Curious about what goes into these delightful confections? Here’s what you’ll need for your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint. This simple list answers “What are the ingredients for soft peppermint?” and ensures you get that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk – This is the secret to the candy’s creamy, soft texture and provides the necessary sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract – Essential for that signature cool, festive flavor. You can adjust this to your liking for a stronger or milder taste.
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar – Also known as powdered sugar, this forms the bulk of the candy and helps create a smooth, pliable dough. You’ll also need a bit more for dusting!
• Red food coloring (optional) – For that classic Christmas look! I love adding just a few drops to make them extra festive.

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating your own batch of delicious soft Christmas peppermint candy.

How to Make Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Making your own batch of Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint is a joyous and surprisingly simple process. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure your candies are perfectly soft and full of festive flavor. You’ll discover how easy it is to create these delightful treats, especially when learning how to make soft peppermint candy for Christmas.

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the entire can of sweetened condensed milk and the peppermint extract. Mix these two ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until they are well incorporated. You’ll immediately notice the sweet, refreshing aroma of peppermint filling your kitchen.
2. Step 2: Gradually begin adding the confectioners’ sugar, about 1 cup at a time, to the wet mixture. Mix after each addition. As you add more sugar, the mixture will thicken. Eventually, it will become a soft dough. Don’t be afraid to switch from a spoon to your hands to fully incorporate the last of the sugar; it’s the best way to ensure your homemade soft peppermint candy mixture is smooth and uniform. This is key for creating that perfect texture.
3. Step 3: If you’re aiming for that classic holiday look, now’s the time to add color! Divide your dough in half. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half and knead it gently until the color is evenly distributed. This makes for a truly festive and eye-catching Christmas peppermint candy recipe soft.
4. Step 4: Lightly dust a clean, flat surface (like a countertop or a large cutting board) with additional confectioners’ sugar. Place your dough onto this dusted surface and roll it out evenly to about 1/4-inch thickness using a rolling pin. I love seeing the smooth, vibrant dough ready for shaping.
5. Step 5: Now for the fun part: cutting out your candies! Use small Christmas-themed cookie cutters – I love tiny stars and trees – or simply a knife to cut out squares or rectangles. Place these freshly cut soft peppermint shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Allow the soft Christmas peppermint treats to air dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm to the touch. This crucial step prevents them from sticking together and helps them hold their shape beautifully. This is a vital part of how to make soft peppermint candy for Christmas that maintains its integrity.
7. Step 7: Once firm, your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint is ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to maintain their freshness and soft texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

I’ve made countless batches of these delightful candies, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint turns out perfectly every time. These expert tips will help you achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture and vibrant flavor that makes them so special.

• Always use fresh, good-quality peppermint extract for the best flavor; imitation extracts just don’t compare.
• Don’t rush the air-drying process. Letting the candies firm up properly prevents them from sticking together and improves their texture.
• For extra festive flair, consider dipping half of each finished candy in melted white chocolate and sprinkling with crushed candy canes.
• When kneading in the confectioners’ sugar, stop as soon as the dough is smooth and pliable to avoid overworking it.

What’s the secret to perfect Chewy Peppermint Christmas Treats?

The real secret to achieving perfectly chewy peppermint Christmas treats lies in the balance of sweetened condensed milk and confectioners’ sugar. Don’t add too much sugar too quickly; it can make the candy crumbly. The slow addition ensures a smooth, delicious soft peppermint dough that holds its shape and stays wonderfully tender.

Can I make Homemade Soft Peppermint ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your homemade soft peppermint up to two weeks in advance. Store the finished candies in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually tend to improve slightly in flavor as they sit, making them an ideal make-ahead holiday treat.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas peppermint candy recipe soft?

To avoid common pitfalls with your Christmas peppermint candy recipe soft, first, resist the urge to add too much confectioners’ sugar too fast, which can make the dough dry. Second, ensure you air-dry them adequately; skipping this step can result in sticky candies. Finally, use enough peppermint extract for a bold, refreshing flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Once you’ve made your batch of Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint, the fun continues with how to share and enjoy these delightful treats! Their vibrant color and refreshing flavor make them incredibly versatile for holiday gatherings and cozy nights alike.

I love arranging these little clouds of joy on a festive platter alongside other holiday candy ideas like chocolate truffles or sugar cookies. They add a beautiful pop of color and a refreshing counterpoint to richer desserts. For a truly magical experience, serve them with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or a warm chai latte; the cool peppermint melts delicately on your tongue, creating a perfect balance with the warm beverage.

They also make fantastic edible gifts! Package a few pieces of your delicious soft peppermint in small cellophane bags tied with a festive ribbon. It’s a thoughtful, homemade present that everyone will appreciate, showcasing your effort in making these wonderful soft Christmas peppermint candies.

Nutrition Facts for Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Understanding the nutritional content of your homemade treats is always helpful! Here’s an estimate for one piece of this delicious Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint, based on the recipe:

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Cholesterol: 5mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Enjoy your soft Christmas peppermint candy responsibly!

How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Proper storage is essential to keep your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint fresh and perfectly soft. After making these delightful treats, ensure they have fully air-dried and are firm to the touch. This prevents them from sticking together in storage.

For short-term storage, place your soft Christmas peppermint candy in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay wonderfully fresh and delicious for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if stacking, to maintain their individual shapes.

If you’re wondering how do you get peppermint candy soft again if it hardens slightly, typically, simply letting it sit at room temperature for a bit will help. These particular candies are designed to stay soft due to the condensed milk. For longer storage, you can freeze them! Place the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint

Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint for these soft Christmas peppermint treats?

Absolutely! While Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint truly shines, you can certainly experiment with other extracts. Vanilla, almond, or even a hint of rum extract can create delicious variations. Just be sure to use high-quality extracts for the best flavor in your soft Christmas peppermint candy.

Why is my homemade peppermint candy not soft?

If your homemade peppermint candy isn’t as soft as you’d hoped, there are a few common culprits. The most frequent reason is adding too much confectioners’ sugar, which can make the mixture dry and crumbly. Another factor could be not enough sweetened condensed milk, or over-kneading the dough. For the best soft Christmas peppermint candy, stick closely to the recipe’s sugar measurements and knead just until combined.

How long do these delicious soft peppermint candies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint will maintain its freshness and delightful texture for up to two weeks. I’ve found they actually taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors meld together beautifully. They’re a fantastic make-ahead treat!

Can I make a sugar-free version of this soft Christmas peppermint candy?

Creating a sugar-free version of this specific soft Christmas peppermint candy can be tricky because both sweetened condensed milk and confectioners’ sugar are key to its texture and sweetness. While you can find sugar-free condensed milk and powdered erythritol, the texture might vary. I recommend testing a small batch first to see if it meets your expectations for a melt-in-your-mouth peppermint treat.

Variations of Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint You Can Try

Once you master the classic Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint, don’t hesitate to get creative! I love experimenting with different flavors and presentations to keep things interesting. These variations make it an even more versatile and easy soft peppermint Christmas recipe.

• Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint: For an extra layer of decadence, melt some dark chocolate or white chocolate chips. Dip one half of the finished soft Christmas peppermint candy into the chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed candy canes before the chocolate sets. It’s a truly delicious soft peppermint treat!
• Citrus Zest Infusion: Add 1-2 teaspoons of finely grated orange or lemon zest to the dough along with the peppermint extract. The bright citrus notes beautifully complement the cool peppermint, offering a refreshing twist on your homemade soft peppermint.
• Spiced Peppermint: For a warmer holiday feel, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough. This creates a cozy, spiced version of your Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
• Different Shapes & Sizes: Beyond traditional cookie cutters, consider rolling the dough into small logs, chilling, and then slicing into coin shapes. This simple change can make your easy soft peppermint Christmas recipe feel brand new.

Irresistible Soft Christmas Peppermint: 1 Epic Recipe

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• Author: Jessica
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: About 4 dozen pieces 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Soft Christmas Peppermint Delights are tiny clouds of joy that melt in your mouth. Experience a sweet explosion of peppermint flavor with each bite. These delightful confections embody the spirit of the season, filling your home with warmth and nostalgia. They are easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings, and their melt-in-your-mouth texture makes them irresistible. Their vibrant colors make them a visual showstopper on any dessert table, perfect for gifting or enjoying with hot cocoa during chilly winter nights.

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Ingredients

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• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more for dusting
• Red food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
2. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, about 1 cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms. You may need to use your hands to incorporate the last of the sugar. Ensure your homemade soft peppermint candy mixture is smooth.
3. If desired, divide the dough in half. Add a few drops of red food coloring to one half and knead until the color is evenly distributed. This makes for a festive Christmas peppermint candy recipe soft.
4. Dust a clean surface with additional confectioners’ sugar. Roll out the peppermint dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
5. Using small Christmas-themed cookie cutters (or a knife to cut squares), cut out the soft peppermint shapes.
6. Place the cut peppermint candies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Allow the soft Christmas peppermint treats to air dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm to the touch. This step is crucial for how to make soft peppermint candy for Christmas that holds its shape.
8. Store the irresistible soft Christmas peppermint candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

• For a stronger peppermint flavor, you can add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
• If the dough is too sticky, add a little more confectioners’ sugar. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more sweetened condensed milk.
• Experiment with different food coloring colors for a variety of festive soft peppermint treats.
• These delicious soft peppermint candies make wonderful homemade Christmas treats and gifts.
• Why is my homemade peppermint candy not soft? Often, it’s due to too much sugar or not enough liquid. Follow the recipe carefully for the best soft texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Fat: 1g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 5mg