Prep Time: ~15 minutes
Set Time: ~15–20 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Yield: ~20–24 candies
Introduction
Soft Christmas Peppermints are tender, chewy holiday candies with refreshing mint flavor and a festive appearance. Unlike traditional hard peppermints, these melts-in-your-mouth sweets are soft and fun to make — perfect for holiday candy boards, gifting, or cozy winter snacking.
Why These Treats Are So Loved
These candies are beloved for their cool peppermint taste and soft, satisfying texture. They deliver all the classic mint flavor you love during the holidays but in an easy, no-bake, soft-candy form. Bright red and white accents or peppermint pieces make them cheerful and festive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
- Corn syrup or light corn sweetener
- Softened butter
- Peppermint extract
- Optional: red food coloring or festive sprinkles
- Optional: splash of milk or cream (to adjust texture)
The Art of Soft Peppermints
Soft Christmas Peppermints are all about balance: the right amount of peppermint flavor and a tender, pliable texture that doesn’t harden like traditional boiled candies. Gently combining the ingredients creates a smooth dough that can be shaped into bite-sized pieces and decorated for seasonal flair.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Candy Dough
In a large bowl, mix powdered sugar with corn syrup and softened butter.
Add peppermint extract and mix until a smooth, pliable dough forms.
If the dough feels too dry, add a splash of milk or cream; if too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar.
2. Add Color (Optional)
Divide the dough if desired.
Add a few drops of red food coloring to one portion and knead gently to swirl color without overmixing.
3. Shape the Peppermints
Roll the dough into small balls or shape into soft logs.
Flatten slightly or shape into festive pieces (stars, hearts, etc.) if desired.
4. Decorate
Press in festive sprinkles or crushed peppermint candy while the dough is soft.
The decorations add color and extra holiday flavor.
5. Set
Place shaped candies on a parchment-lined tray.
Let them set at room temperature for 15–20 minutes until firm but still soft to the bite.
6. Serve
Serve on a candy tray, pack in holiday bags, or enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa.
Tips for Best Results
- Use fresh peppermint extract — it gives the best mint intensity.
- Adjust texture with small splashes of milk or extra powdered sugar as needed.
- Add color gently so it doesn’t change the texture.
- Store in an airtight container at cool temperatures to keep them soft.
Creative Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped: dip half of each candy in melted chocolate before setting.
- Candy Cane Crunch: roll in crushed candy cane pieces for extra peppermint punch.
- Marble Swirl: swirl red and white dough together for a classic holiday look.
- Mint-Vanilla Twist: add a hint of vanilla for a softer flavor.
- Festive Shapes: use holiday cookie cutters for shaped candies.
Storage & Freshness
Store Soft Christmas Peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Avoid humid environments, which can make them sticky.
Conclusion
Soft Christmas Peppermints are delightful, minty, and festive — a soft holiday candy perfect for gifting, dessert tables, or anytime you crave a cool mint treat with cozy charm
