Soft Xmas Peppermints
Soft Xmas Peppermints Delicious holiday treat Enjoy soft irresistible peppermints this Christmas
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 36 peppermints
- Category: Candy
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- Powdered Sugar: Approximately 4 cups, plus more for dusting
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract, or more to taste
- Gel Food Coloring (Optional)
- Cornstarch for dusting
Instructions
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. This is absolutely essential for smooth, clump-free candies.
- Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed to prevent a tough texture. Overmixing activates the gluten in the powdered sugar.
- 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.
- Taste the dough as you go, adding more peppermint extract a little at a time, until you reach your desired level of minty-ness.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and peppermint extract until smooth. Start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and add more to taste, 1/4 teaspoon at a time.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated. Be patient and add the sugar slowly to prevent a cloud of sugar.
- If using food coloring, divide the dough in half. Add a few drops of gel food coloring to one half and mix well until evenly colored.
- Lightly dust a work surface with cornstarch. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. If using two colors, take small pieces of each color and roll them together to create a swirl effect.
- Place the rolled candies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Chill the candies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
- Store the candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for up to a month.
Notes
Indulge in the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of homemade soft Christmas peppermints. This easy recipe transforms your kitchen into a winter wonderland of sweet, minty magic!