The holidays are coming, and if there’s one thing that can bring a smile to anyone’s face, it’s the delightful crunch of soft Christmas peppermints melting in your mouth. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, mixing with cinnamon and clove as you craft these little gems. cozy smores dip Oh, the joy! You can almost hear the jingle bells ringing as you think about how perfect they are for holiday gifting or simply indulging during cozy winter nights.
I still remember the first time I made these soft Christmas peppermints; my best friend tried one and declared it “better than a hug!” They’re not just candies; they’re tiny morsels of holiday cheer. Perfect for decorating gingerbread houses or filling candy bowls at festive gatherings, every bite is an invitation to celebrate. peanut butter spider cookies Get ready for an explosion of sweetness that will have everyone asking for seconds! For more inspiration, check out this chewy coconut cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The soft Christmas peppermints recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for even novice bakers
- They burst with a refreshing minty flavor that dances on your taste buds
- Visually stunning with their vibrant colors, they brighten up any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be used in desserts or served as standalone treats, these candies are a holiday must-have
I recall making these soft Christmas peppermints with my kids last year; we ended up with more frosting on ourselves than in the bowl!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Peppermint Extract: A few drops can turn ordinary sugar into a minty masterpiece; choose pure extract for the best flavor.
- Confectioners’ Sugar: This sweet snow is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture; sift it for a smoother blend. pumpkin patch strawberries.
- Egg Whites: Use fresh egg whites to create that perfect fluffy consistency; pasteurized options work too if you’re concerned about raw eggs.
- Food Coloring: Pick vibrant red or green for festive flair; gel colors give you brighter results without watering down the mixture.
- Corn Syrup: This sticky ingredient helps bind everything together; opt for light corn syrup for a milder flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this coconut bites recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Workspace: Start by clearing your countertop and laying out all your ingredients and tools. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Whip Egg Whites: In a large bowl, beat egg whites until they form stiff peaks; this should take about 5 minutes with an electric mixer. You want them fluffy and cloud-like!
Add Sugar Gradually: Slowly mix in confectioners’ sugar until you reach a thick consistency that holds its shape well. It should look like fluffy marshmallow fluff ready to be transformed.
Incorporate Flavor and Color: Gently fold in peppermint extract and food coloring until evenly distributed. Aim for festive shades—think Santa’s suit red or frosty green!
Scoop and Shape Candies: Using a spoon or piping bag, dollop small amounts onto the lined baking sheet. Shape each dollop into cute little mounds—a bit like mini snowmen without carrot noses.
Let Them Set: Allow your peppermints to dry at room temperature for 24 hours before serving or packaging them up as gifts. This step is crucial; patience is key here!
Now you’re ready to share your delightful creations! These soft Christmas peppermints will surely spread some holiday cheer wherever they go. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe is more than just a sweet treat; it brings the holiday spirit to life
- The vibrant colors and minty aroma fill your kitchen with festive cheer, making it perfect for gifting or enjoying during cozy gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the sugar and corn syrup over low heat, stirring until dissolved. Then, add peppermint extract before pouring the mixture onto a greased surface to cool, ensuring a smooth texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with different flavors like vanilla or chocolate by adding them into the mixture. chocolate hazelnut yule log You can also use food coloring for a festive twist, creating vibrant stripes or swirls.
Storing & Reheating
Store your soft Christmas peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they harden, simply place them in a warm spot to soften slightly before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your soft Christmas peppermints stand out, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending
- Avoid overcooking the mixture to prevent a grainy texture
- Use a candy thermometer for precise results, ensuring that you reach the right temperature without burning
The first time I made these soft Christmas peppermints, my family devoured them so quickly that I barely got one! Their smiles were worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
FAQ
What is the best way to flavor my soft Christmas peppermints?
Using peppermint extract gives the best flavor, but feel free to try others!
Can I make these peppermints ahead of time?
Absolutely! They store well and can be made days in advance.
How do I know when my candy mixture is ready?
Use a candy thermometer; it should reach around 240°F for perfect texture.
Soft Christmas Peppermints
- Total Time: 27 minute
- Yield: Approximately 30 peppermints 1x
Description
Soft Christmas Peppermints are the perfect holiday treat, combining a refreshing minty flavor with a melt-in-your-mouth texture. These delightful candies will fill your kitchen with festive cheer and are ideal for gifting or enjoying during cozy winter nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create vibrant, sweet morsels that everyone will love. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 cups confectioners' sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 2 egg whites
- 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
- Food coloring (red or green)
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form (about 5 minutes).
- Gradually add confectioners' sugar, mixing until thick and fluffy.
- Gently fold in peppermint extract and desired food coloring.
- Using a spoon or piping bag, dollop small mounds onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Allow them to dry at room temperature for 24 hours.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 peppermint (10g)
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Experiment with different flavors like vanilla or chocolate for unique variations. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
