Magically Melt-in-Your-Mouth Christmas Peppermints (9 Joyful Reasons They’re a Holiday Must-Make)

Easy Soft Christmas Peppermints are one of those old-fashioned holiday treats that instantly bring back cozy memories — candy dishes on the table, powdered sugar on the counter, and the scent of peppermint in the air. Thank you for being here, friend. I baked these to give as gifts too… but after tasting just one, I had to make another batch. They truly melt in your mouth, and once you try them, you’ll understand why they disappear faster than Christmas cookies

These creamy peppermint candies are simple, beautiful, and perfect for holiday trays, gift boxes, or sneaking straight from the fridge. And if you love classic Christmas treats like this, be sure to subscribe to my email list — I share all my best holiday recipes there first.

Overview of Recipe Content

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are no-bake, ultra-smooth, and lightly sweet with a refreshing peppermint finish. They’re sometimes called butter mints, and for good reason — the texture is pure holiday magic.

Why you’ll love these peppermint candies

• Melt-in-your-mouth texture
• No baking required
• Perfect for gifting
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Classic Christmas flavor everyone loves

What they taste like

Creamy, sweet, and cool with peppermint — soft at first bite, then they simply dissolve. Think old-school holiday candy dish perfection.

Ingredients

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Soft Christmas Peppermints

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
• ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (start small — it’s strong!)
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• Red food coloring (optional, for festive color)

For Rolling

• ¼ cup granulated sugar (prevents sticking and adds sparkle)

Optional Variations

• Green food coloring
• Vanilla extract (replace half the peppermint for a milder flavor)
• Crushed candy canes for topping

Tools Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or spatula
• Piping bag or zip-top bag
• Fork or candy mold
• Parchment paper

How to Make Easy Soft Christmas Peppermints

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Step 1: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add heavy cream and peppermint extract, mixing until fully combined.

Step 2: Add the Sugar

Gradually mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until a soft, pliable dough forms. It should feel like soft play-dough — not sticky, not dry.

Step 3: Color the Dough

If using food coloring, divide the dough and tint as desired. Knead gently until color is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Shape the Peppermints

Dust your hands lightly with granulated sugar. Roll dough into small ropes and cut into bite-size pieces, or pipe small mounds using an icing bag. Press gently with a fork for that classic look.

Step 5: Set

Place candies on parchment paper and let sit at room temperature for 2–4 hours, or refrigerate for faster setting.

What to Serve with Soft Christmas Peppermints

• Holiday cookie trays
• Hot cocoa or coffee
• Gift boxes and tins
• After-dinner treats

Tips for Making Them Perfect

• Use peppermint extract, not mint
• Add extract gradually — it’s potent
• If dough is sticky, add more powdered sugar
• Store chilled for the best texture

Storage Instructions

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 2 weeks
• Freeze up to 2 months
• Separate layers with parchment paper

General Information

Soft peppermint candies have been a staple in American holiday baking for generations. Often homemade for church events and Christmas gifting, they’re loved for their simplicity and nostalgic charm.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do these need to be refrigerated?
Yes — refrigeration keeps them firm and fresh.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. These scale beautifully.

Can kids help make these?
Yes! Shaping and coloring are kid favorites.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes — cream is richer, but milk works well.

Conclusion

These Easy Soft Christmas Peppermints are everything a holiday candy should be — simple, nostalgic, and irresistibly good. Whether you’re gifting them or keeping a batch all to yourself (no judgment here!), they bring pure Christmas joy. If you love classic holiday sweets, be sure to also try butter cookies or homemade fudge next.

Wishing you a sweet, cozy holiday season

Interactive Elements

Leave a review if you make these!
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https://www.pinterest.com/poulefrecipe/

Nutritional Information (Approximate per peppermint)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	45
Carbohydrates	6g
Sugar	6g
Fat	2g
Protein	0g
Sodium	5mg

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