Soft Xmas Peppermints

The holidays are a time for traditions, and for me, nothing screams Christmas quite like peppermint. But not just any peppermint – I’m talking about soft, melt-in-your-mouth soft Christmas peppermints that practically dissolve on your tongue. Forget those hard, brittle candies that threaten to crack a tooth! This recipe is all about creating a creamy, dreamy peppermint experience that will have everyone begging for more. This year, let’s ditch the store-bought stuff and embrace the joy of homemade candy, transforming your kitchen into a winter wonderland of sweet, minty magic. Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these irresistible treats!

My journey with candy-making started years ago, inspired by my grandmother’s incredible fudge recipe. Through countless batches and experiments, I’ve learned the nuances of sugar, temperature, and texture. I’ve perfected this soft Christmas peppermints recipe over years, adjusting it for the best possible creamy texture. My goal is to give you foolproof instructions so you can make these delectable treats in your home. Peppermint bark and other peppermint treats are trending hard this year, and these candies are the perfect homemade gift!

Ingredients for Peppermint Perfection

• Powdered Sugar: The base of our peppermint dreams! Use a high-quality powdered sugar, free of lumps, for the smoothest texture. The fine particles dissolve easily, resulting in that signature melt-in-your-mouth feel.
• Cream Cheese: This is the secret ingredient that sets these soft Christmas peppermints apart. It adds a creamy tang and helps keep the candies soft and pliable. Make sure to use full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Reduced-fat options will work in a pinch, but the result might be slightly less rich.
• Peppermint Extract: The star of the show! A little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and add more to taste. Pure peppermint extract is preferred for its intense and authentic flavor. Avoid artificial flavorings, as they can sometimes have a slightly chemical taste.
• Food Coloring (Optional): For that classic red and white swirl, gel food coloring is your best friend. Gel colors are more concentrated than liquid colors, so they won’t thin out the candy mixture. You can also use natural food colorings, like beet juice powder for a subtle pink hue.
• Cornstarch (for dusting): Cornstarch prevents the candies from sticking to your hands and the parchment paper.

Ingredient Science Note: The combination of powdered sugar and cream cheese creates a unique texture. The fat in the cream cheese coats the sugar particles, preventing them from clumping together and allowing the candies to remain soft even after they’ve been stored. The peppermint extract not only provides flavor but also enhances the perceived sweetness of the candy.

Substitution Tips: For a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based cream cheese alternative. Be aware that the texture might be slightly different. You can also experiment with different extracts, like vanilla or almond, for a unique twist. For those avoiding refined sugar, powdered erythritol is a good substitute, but be mindful of its cooling effect.

Expert Tips for Candy Success

• Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This is absolutely essential for smooth, clump-free candies. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to prevent a tough texture. Overmixing activates the gluten in the powdered sugar.
• Rolling Technique: Roll the candies gently, using a light hand to prevent cracking.
• Chill Time is Key: Don’t rush the chilling process. This is crucial for solidifying the candies and making them easier to handle.
• Adjust Peppermint Extract: Taste the dough as you go, adding more peppermint extract a little at a time, until you reach your desired level of minty-ness.

My Testing Notes: I’ve made these candies dozens of times, and I’ve found that the brand of powdered sugar really does make a difference. Some brands are more prone to clumping, so I always sift mine before using it. I also like to use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment to ensure that the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Be patient when adding the powdered sugar; add it gradually to prevent a cloud of sugar from exploding in your kitchen!

FAQ: Your Peppermint Questions Answered

Can I make these candies ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! Soft Christmas peppermints are perfect for making ahead of time. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

How do I prevent the candies from sticking?

The key is to use plenty of cornstarch when rolling and shaping the candies. You can also dust your hands with powdered sugar if the candies are still sticky. Make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper as well.

Can I use a different extract?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different extracts! Vanilla, almond, and even lemon extract would all be delicious. Just be sure to use a high-quality extract for the best flavor.

What if my dough is too dry?

If your dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of milk or cream at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the candies sticky.

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of powdered sugar at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also chill the dough for a longer period of time to help it firm up.

Can I add other ingredients to these candies?

Absolutely! You can add crushed candy canes, chocolate chips, or even chopped nuts to these soft Christmas peppermints. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures.

How do I get the red swirl effect?

Divide the dough in half. Add the red food coloring to one half and mix well. Then, take small pieces of each color and roll them together to create a swirl effect. Don’t overmix, or the colors will blend together.

Spread Holiday Cheer with Homemade Treats

So there you have it – a foolproof recipe for soft Christmas peppermints that will delight your friends, family, and even yourself! These creamy, melt-in-your-mouth candies are the perfect addition to any holiday celebration. They’re easy to make, customizable, and oh-so-delicious. This Christmas, skip the store-bought candies and embrace the joy of homemade treats. Your loved ones will appreciate the extra effort, and you’ll be rewarded with smiles and satisfied sighs. Don’t forget to share your peppermint creations with me on social media! I can’t wait to see your festive swirls and decorations. Happy candy-making, and happy holidays!

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy my recipes for Easy Christmas Fudge, Gingerbread Cookies, and Peppermint Bark. These are all perfect for holiday gifting or simply enjoying with a warm cup of cocoa.

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