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This simple recipe for soft Christmas peppermints has been a holiday tradition in my home for years. These melt-in-your-mouth treats are easy to make, perfect for gifting, and always bring a festive cheer to the dessert table.
I first made these during a snowy December when I wanted to add an extra handmade touch to holiday gifts. Now, it’s a regular part of our holiday preparations every year.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar: Provides the sweet base for the candies and contributes to their structure
- Light corn syrup: Helps create the smooth texture and prevents crystallization
- Water: Helps dissolve the sugar and corn syrup to form a smooth syrup
- Peppermint extract: Adds the classic and refreshing mint flavor that defines the candies
- Red food coloring: Optional but brings that festive red swirl to your peppermints if desired
- Powdered sugar: For dusting to prevent the candies from sticking and add a light finish
How To Make Soft Christmas Peppermints
- Prepare the Candy Surface:
- Get a flat surface or baking sheet lined with parchment paper ready for shaping the candies. This prevents sticking later.
- Mix and Heat the Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Gently stir to mix the ingredients and place over medium heat. Bring it to a boil, stirring continuously, to dissolve the sugar completely.
- Simmer the Mixture:
- Once the mixture boils, stop stirring and let it simmer until the candy thermometer reads 250°F 121°C, known as the hard ball stage. This is where the mixture begins to gain the right consistency.
- Cool and Add Flavor:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool for a few minutes until the bubbling stops. Add the peppermint extract and optional red food coloring. Stir gently but thoroughly.
- Handle and Shape the Candy:
- Let the mixture cool until it's safe to touch, about 10 to 15 minutes. Dust your hands and work surface with powdered sugar, and grease your hands lightly. Divide the candy into small portions, rolling each into ropes about 1/4 inch thick, then cutting them into 1-inch pieces.
- Set the Candies:
- Each piece should be dusted with powdered sugar to avoid sticking. Place the candies on the prepared parchment paper and let them harden for at least 2 hours.
- Store:
- Once fully cooled, store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature.
I love using the peppermint extract in this recipe; it always reminds me of the satisfying crunch and freshness of store-bought mints but with a homemade charm that’s unbeatable.
Storage Tips
After the candies have hardened, ensure they remain fresh by storing them in an airtight container away from heat and moisture. If you live in a humid area, adding a small packet of food-safe desiccant can help keep the candies dry. They will keep well at room temperature for up to a month.
Ingredient Substitutions
If corn syrup isn’t available, try using golden syrup or a mixture of sugar and water as an alternative. You can also switch up the flavor by using other extracts like vanilla or almond, though peppermint is the classic choice for a holiday touch.
Serving Suggestions
Soft Christmas peppermints are perfect as a sweet treat after dinner, as part of a holiday candy platter, or packaged in small tins or jars as gifts. Pair them with hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful combination.
A Touch of History
Peppermints have a long-standing association with holiday festivities, with their crisp, cooling flavor evoking the chill of winter air. Whether you’ve grown up enjoying peppermint candies or discovered them later, making them from scratch allows you to connect with this seasonal tradition in a personal and creative way.
Recipe FAQs
- → What temperature should the candy mixture reach?
The candy mixture should reach the hard ball stage, approximately 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer.
- → Do I need to use food coloring?
Food coloring is optional but adds a festive flair. You may skip it if you prefer natural white candies.
- → What can I do if the candy mixture hardens too quickly?
If the mixture hardens too quickly, gently reheat it over low heat until pliable, but be cautious not to overheat.
- → How should I store the peppermint candies?
Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and prevent sticking.
- → Can I use other flavored extracts?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or almond extract for unique variations.