Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, isn’t there? The air is filled with cheerful tunes, twinkling lights brighten our homes, and delicious treats come alive in kitchens everywhere. One such delightful creation that captures the essence of Christmas spirit is the Soft Christmas Peppermints. These sweet, melt-in-your-mouth candies are not only easy to make but also add a festive touch to any dessert table. Imagine the burst of peppermint flavor with every soft bite, along with a hint of vanilla that makes them even more irresistible!
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon food coloring (red or green)
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 24 hours 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 24 pieces
Directions and Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl, and combine the powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add in the peppermint and vanilla extracts, stirring well to ensure everything is blended and full of flavor.
- If you want to bring a festive flair to your candies, drop in a few drops of food coloring. Mix until the color is evenly distributed, creating a delightful hue that matches your holiday décor.
- Dust a clean surface generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Turn the mixture out onto the surface.
- Knead the dough for about 2-3 minutes, until it becomes smooth and pliable — it will feel soft and malleable, ready for shaping.
- Roll the dough into small balls, approximately the size of a marble, then slightly flatten each ball to form neat discs.
- Place your peppermint discs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them.
- Now comes the hardest part — let the candies dry for a full 24 hours in a cool, dry place, allowing them to firm up nicely.
- Once dry, finish them off with a light dusting of extra powdered sugar if desired, then store in an airtight container to keep them fresh!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to get creative with your peppermint colors! Use red, green, or even a mix for a delightful assortment. For added texture, consider rolling the discs in crushed peppermint candies or sprinkles before drying. Always remember, the longer you let them dry, the better the texture will be!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe calls for simple mixing and kneading techniques that are ideal for cooks of any skill level. Ensure that your surface is adequately dusted with powdered sugar to avoid sticking, and don’t rush the drying time: patience is key in achieving the perfect soft texture that makes these peppermint delights a joyous indulgence.
FAQ
Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! You can use any flavored extract of your choice, such as almond or lemon, to create unique variations of these candies.
How should I store the candies?
Keep the soft peppermint candies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for a couple of weeks—ideal for holiday gifting!
Conclusion
Making these Soft Christmas Peppermints is not only simple but also a wonderful way to embrace the joy of the season. Their soft, chewy consistency and refreshing flavor make them a must-try treat during the holidays. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or sharing them as sweet gifts, these delightful candies are sure to bring smiles all around. So gather your ingredients, put on some holiday music, and let the candy-making magic begin!