Soft Christmas Peppermints

Name: Soft Christmas Peppermints: Discover Irresistible Flavors!
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 24 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar; 1/2 cup light corn syrup; 1/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon peppermint extract; 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (optional)

Posted on November 7, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Soft Christmas Peppermints

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself dreaming of Soft Christmas Peppermints. These delightful, chewy candies are not just a treat; they’re a burst of festive spirit in every bite. If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, this recipe is a quick solution for those last-minute holiday gatherings. Imagine impressing your loved ones with homemade candies that are as easy to make as they are delicious! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a minty masterpiece that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure together!

Why You’ll Love This Soft Christmas Peppermints

Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. They come together in just 15 minutes, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. The chewy texture and refreshing minty taste will transport you straight to holiday bliss. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to involve your kids in the kitchen, creating sweet memories while whipping up these festive treats. Who wouldn’t love that?

Ingredients for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Soft Christmas Peppermints. Here’s what you’ll need:

Powdered Sugar: This is the base of our candies, giving them that sweet, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Light Corn Syrup: This ingredient adds chewiness and helps bind everything together, ensuring your candies don’t crumble.
Water: A little hydration goes a long way in achieving the right consistency for your dough.

Peppermint Extract: The star of the show! This extract infuses your candies with that refreshing minty flavor we all adore during the holidays.
Food Coloring (optional): If you want to add a festive touch, a few drops of food coloring can make your candies visually pop!

For those who might be looking for alternatives, you can use agave syrup instead of corn syrup for a different sweetness profile. And if peppermint isn’t your thing, feel free to experiment with other extracts like vanilla or almond. The exact quantities for these ingredients are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints

Making Soft Christmas Peppermints is a delightful process that’s as easy as pie! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of chewy, minty goodness ready to share with family and friends.

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the powdered sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix everything together. You want to create a dough that’s not too sticky but holds together well. If it feels too dry, add a tiny splash of water. Remember, the goal is a smooth, pliable dough!

Step 2: Add Flavor and Color

Now, it’s time to add the magic! Pour in the peppermint extract and mix it in thoroughly. This is where the holiday spirit really shines through. If you’re feeling festive, add a few drops of food coloring. Knead the dough until the color is evenly distributed. It’s like creating your own little holiday masterpiece!

Step 3: Form the Candies

Once your dough is ready, it’s time to shape those Soft Christmas Peppermints. Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls. Then, flatten each ball into a disc shape. Aim for about the size of a quarter. This is where you can get creative! If you want them to look extra special, use cookie cutters for fun shapes.

Step 4: Drying Time

After shaping your candies, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let them dry for at least 24 hours. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect chewy texture. Once they’re dry, store them in an airtight container. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first bite!

Tips for Success

Make sure your mixing bowl is large enough to prevent spills while combining ingredients.

Use a silicone spatula for easy mixing and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Don’t rush the drying time; it’s essential for the right texture.
Store your Soft Christmas Peppermints in a cool, dry place to keep them fresh.

Get the kids involved! They’ll love shaping the candies and adding their personal touch.

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl is essential. If you don’t have one, any deep dish will do.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing. A sturdy fork can work in a pinch!

Parchment Paper: Use it to line your baking sheet. Wax paper is a suitable alternative.
Measuring Cups: For accuracy. If you’re in a hurry, eyeballing can work too!

Variations of Soft Christmas Peppermints

Chocolate-Dipped Peppermints: After drying, dip your candies in melted chocolate for a decadent twist.

Spiced Peppermints: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, holiday flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute light corn syrup with maple syrup and ensure your food coloring is plant-based.
Fruit-Flavored Peppermints: Swap peppermint extract for other extracts like orange or raspberry for a fruity variation.

Mini Peppermint Bites: Roll the dough into smaller balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking.

Serving Suggestions for Soft Christmas Peppermints

Hot Cocoa: Pair your Soft Christmas Peppermints with a warm cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Festive Platters: Arrange them on a colorful platter alongside other holiday candies for a beautiful display.

Gift Packaging: Wrap them in cellophane bags tied with ribbons for delightful homemade gifts.
Ice Cream Topping: Crush them up and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for a minty twist.

FAQs about Soft Christmas Peppermints

Can I make Soft Christmas Peppermints ahead of time?

Absolutely! These candies can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They make for great last-minute gifts or party favors!

How long do Soft Christmas Peppermints last?

When stored properly, these minty treats can last up to two weeks. Just keep them in a cool, dry place to maintain their chewy texture.

Can I use different flavors instead of peppermint?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other extracts like vanilla, almond, or even seasonal flavors like eggnog. The possibilities are endless!

What if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels sticky, simply add a little more powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency. It should be smooth and pliable, not tacky.

Are Soft Christmas Peppermints suitable for vegans?

Yes! To make them vegan, just substitute the light corn syrup with maple syrup and ensure your food coloring is plant-based. Enjoy your festive treats!

Final Thoughts

Creating Soft Christmas Peppermints is more than just making candy; it’s about crafting sweet memories during the holiday season. The joy of mixing, shaping, and waiting for those delightful treats to dry brings a sense of anticipation that fills the air with festive cheer. Each chewy bite is a reminder of the love and warmth shared with family and friends. Whether you’re gifting them or enjoying them yourself, these minty delights are sure to bring smiles all around. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let’s make this holiday season a little sweeter together!