Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

These Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are a delightful holiday treat that will melt in your mouth. With their creamy butter base and refreshing mint flavor, they’re perfect for any festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them at home, these soft mints add a cheerful touch to your celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easily Made at Home: You can whip up these mints with simple ingredients found in your pantry.
• Versatile Flavor: The refreshing peppermint flavor makes them ideal for both summer and winter festivities.
• Perfect for Gifting: Packaged beautifully, these treats make thoughtful gifts that everyone loves.
• Customizable Appearance: Add a pop of color with optional red food coloring to match your holiday decor.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: Experience the unique texture that sets these mints apart from store-bought candies.

Tools and Preparation

Making Soft Peppermints is straightforward, especially when you have the right tools on hand. These tools make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good-sized bowl helps you mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer makes blending the ingredients quicker and ensures a smooth consistency.
• Baking sheet: A flat surface for setting out your mints as they cool helps maintain their shape.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment keeps the mints from sticking, making cleanup easy.

Ingredients

For these Soft Peppermints, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp peppermint extract
• A pinch of salt

For Coloring and Coating

• Red food coloring (optional)
• Granulated sugar (for coating)

How to Make Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract.
2. Using an electric mixer, blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until the mixture is well combined and reaches a soft dough consistency.
4. If desired, add a few drops of red food coloring, mixing until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Shape the Mints

1. Dust your hands with granulated sugar to prevent sticking.
2. Scoop small portions of the mixture using a cookie scoop or spoon and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Place each mint onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Let Them Set

1. Once all mints are shaped, sprinkle granulated sugar over each one for added sweetness and texture.
2. Refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow them to set properly.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Soft Peppermints!

How to Serve Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Soft Peppermints make a delightful addition to any holiday gathering. Their creamy texture and refreshing mint flavor can enhance your festive table in various ways.

Gift Them

• Create small gift boxes or bags filled with these mints for friends and family. They make a sweet, personal touch during the holidays.

Dessert Table Addition

• Place a bowl of Soft Peppermints on your dessert table. Their vibrant colors and taste will attract guests and complement other sweets.

Hot Beverage Pairing

• Serve these mints alongside hot cocoa or coffee. The peppermint flavor enhances the warmth of the drinks, creating a perfect pairing for chilly evenings.

Holiday Party Favors

• Wrap individual mints in decorative cellophane and tie them with festive ribbons. They serve as delightful party favors that guests can take home.

Sweet Treats for Kids

• Include Soft Peppermints in kids’ holiday treat bags. Their soft texture makes them easy for children to enjoy without worry.

How to Perfect Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

To ensure your Soft Peppermints turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use softened butter – Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
• Sift powdered sugar – Sifting helps prevent lumps, ensuring a silky-smooth final product.
• Adjust peppermint extract – Taste as you go; you can add more peppermint extract if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.
• Add food coloring carefully – If using red food coloring, add it gradually until you achieve your desired shade for that festive look.
• Coat with granulated sugar – Rolling the mints in sugar not only adds sweetness but also prevents them from sticking together.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

Soft Peppermints pair well with various side dishes, enhancing the overall holiday experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie or cheddar complements the sweetness of the mints while offering savory flavors.
2. Fruit Salad – Fresh fruits such as berries or citrus provide a refreshing contrast to the rich mints, making for a vibrant addition to your table.
3. Vegetable Crudités – Crisp vegetables served with a light dip can balance out the sweetness of the mints and provide crunch.
4. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The salty-sweet combination of pretzels dipped in chocolate pairs nicely with the minty flavors of the candies.
5. Nut Assortment – A variety of nuts adds texture and richness that contrasts well with the soft mints while offering healthy fats.
6. Mini Pastries – Small pastries filled with fruit or cream can be an indulgent side that complements the festive atmosphere when served alongside these mints.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes while making these Soft Peppermints can help ensure you get the best results.

• Skipping the softening step: Always make sure your butter is softened. This helps achieve a creamy texture that blends well with other ingredients.
• Ignoring measurements: Use precise measurements for ingredients, particularly powdered sugar. Too much can make your mints overly sweet or difficult to shape.
• Not chilling enough: Allow the mints to chill adequately before serving. This ensures they hold their shape and have the right texture.
• Forgetting flavor adjustments: Taste your mixture before shaping. You may want to add more peppermint extract for a stronger minty flavor.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough mints rather than soft, melt-in-your-mouth treats.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

• Place in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• These can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Bake for about 5 minutes to soften slightly without melting.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds on low power. Check frequently to avoid melting completely.
• Stovetop: Place a small pot of water on low heat and set a heatproof bowl of mints on top, allowing gentle warmth without direct contact with the heat source.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about Soft Peppermints.

Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?

Yes! You can substitute peppermint extract with flavors like spearmint or even vanilla for a different twist.

How do I customize my Soft Peppermints?

Consider adding cocoa powder for chocolate mints or using food coloring for festive designs and colors.

What if my mints are too sticky?

If the mixture is too sticky, gradually add more powdered sugar until you reach a workable consistency.

How long do these Soft Peppermints last?

When stored properly, they can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Soft Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) are not only easy to make but also bring joy and nostalgia during the holiday season. Feel free to customize them with different flavors and colors, making them perfect for any festive occasion or gift-giving!