Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to the sweet treats that fill our homes with joy and nostalgia. These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful addition to any festive gathering, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that captures the spirit of the holidays. With their vibrant colors and refreshing peppermint flavor, they’ll not only please your taste buds but also make perfect gifts for friends and family.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/8 teaspoon red food coloring
- 1/8 teaspoon white food coloring (optional)
- Extra powdered sugar for dusting
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Approximately 40 pieces
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and granulated sugar. Mix well until evenly blended.
- In a saucepan, combine the corn syrup and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring gently, until the mixture reaches a rolling boil.
- Once boiling, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the peppermint extract, allowing the aroma to fill the air.
- Gradually pour the hot syrup into the sugar mixture, stirring continuously. This will create a sticky dough that begins to form.
- When the mixture is cool enough to handle, knead the dough in the bowl for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes smooth.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions. Add the red food coloring to one portion and the optional white food coloring to the other.
- Knead each portion thoroughly until the colors are fully incorporated, creating a beautiful marbled effect.
- On a surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll each portion of dough into thin ropes, aiming for a diameter of about 1/4 inch.
- Cut the ropes into desired lengths, typically around 1 inch, to create bite-sized pieces.
- Allow the cut candies to dry for about 24 hours at room temperature. Before serving, dust them lightly with additional powdered sugar to keep them from sticking.
Notes or Tips
When making these delectable treats, be sure to work quickly with the warm syrup, as it cools down rapidly. Feel free to experiment with other colors to create a rainbow of festive treats! These soft peppermints can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks, making them perfect for holiday gifting.
Cooking Techniques
Making these Soft Christmas Peppermints is a straightforward process, but it’s important to keep a close eye on the syrup as it heats to ensure it doesn’t burn. Kneading the dough helps to develop the right texture, so give it a good mix until it’s soft and pliable. Using powdered sugar to dust your surfaces is key to preventing stickiness and allows for easy rolling and cutting.
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor extract?
Absolutely! While peppermint is a classic choice for the holidays, you can substitute with other extract flavors like vanilla, almond, or even citrus for a unique twist.
How can I store the peppermint candies?
Keep your soft peppermints in an airtight container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. This will help them maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze these candies?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze soft peppermints. Just make sure they are well-packaged to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
These Soft Christmas Peppermints are not just treats; they are a celebration of flavor and color that will bring warmth to your home and smiles to your loved ones. With their simple ingredients and straightforward process, they are perfect for both seasoned bakers and those new to holiday sweet-making. Enjoy crafting these delightful candies and share the joy of the season with everyone around you!