Soft Christmas Peppermints are the kind of nostalgic holiday treat that make every sweet tooth swoon, year after year. These mints are melt-in-your-mouth tender, pillowy, and infused with delightful peppermint flavor, bringing a burst of festive freshness with each bite. They’re easy to make, fun to color and shape, and look simply lovely on any dessert platter—or wrapped up as edible gifts for friends and family. Whether you’re starting a new holiday tradition or searching for the perfect homemade confection, these Soft Christmas Peppermints are always a crowd-pleaser.

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how a handful of basic pantry staples transforms into pure Christmas magic. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor, crafting that signature creamy texture, and lending those festive pops of holiday color to your Soft Christmas Peppermints.

Powdered sugar (4 cups, plus extra for dusting): The secret to that dreamy soft bite—powdered sugar is the backbone of both the sweetness and the smooth texture.
Cream cheese (4 ounces, softened): Brings a lush, tangy creaminess that makes every mint extra decadent.
Unsalted butter (1 tablespoon, softened): Adds a subtle richness and helps the dough hold together effortlessly.
Peppermint extract (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers the signature cool, refreshing burst that’s classic for Christmas mints—adjust to taste if you like them extra minty.
Food coloring (red, green, or as desired): Infuses holiday spirit—go classic with red and green, or use any colors you love for a personal touch.
Granulated sugar (for rolling): Gives the outsides just a touch of sparkly crunch, and keeps each piece from sticking to your hands or each other.

How to Make Soft Christmas Peppermints

Step 1: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and butter. Beat the mixture using a hand mixer (or a stand mixer if you prefer) until it’s completely smooth and creamy. This first step is important to make sure there are no lumps, ensuring that your Soft Christmas Peppermints turn out perfectly silky.

Step 2: Add Peppermint Flavor

Pour in the peppermint extract and beat until it’s fully incorporated. This gives your mints that cool, refreshing aroma and taste right from the start. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust—the beauty of homemade candy is making it just as minty as you like!

Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar

Gradually add the powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. The dough will go from sticky to soft and almost play-dough-like. It should be pliable but not dry. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon or two of extra powdered sugar at a time until you get the perfect texture.

Step 4: Color and Knead the Dough

Separate the dough into different bowls if you’d like to use multiple colors. Add just a drop or two of food coloring to each portion (a little goes a long way!). Gently knead the color through with clean hands or a silicone spatula until each section is evenly dyed. Watching these Soft Christmas Peppermints turn into vibrant little jewels is honestly half the fun.

Step 5: Shape the Mints

Roll the dough into small, one-inch balls. Flatten each ball gently with your fingers or press down lightly with a fork for that classic cross-hatch look. The shape is totally up to you—have fun with it! This makes the process perfect for getting little helpers involved.

Step 6: Coat in Sugar and Let Dry

Roll each shaped mint lightly in granulated sugar, then place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let the mints air dry for at least four hours, or overnight if you have the patience. This gives them a firm shell while staying blissfully soft on the inside, which is what makes Soft Christmas Peppermints irresistible!

How to Serve Soft Christmas Peppermints

Garnishes

Dress these mints up by sprinkling them with a little extra colored sugar or edible glitter just before serving. For an especially fancy presentation, consider a dusting of gold or silver pearl dust, which makes your Soft Christmas Peppermints look almost too pretty to eat (almost!).

Side Dishes

Pair your Soft Christmas Peppermints with a mug of hot cocoa, coffee, or holiday tea for a dreamy post-dinner treat. They also work beautifully alongside a platter of assorted holiday cookies, adding a burst of minty freshness to rich, chocolatey, or spicy desserts.

Creative Ways to Present

These mints turn into perfect edible gifts when packed into clear cellophane bags or mason jars tied with festive ribbon. For parties, arrange them in mini cupcake liners on a vintage tray. Or, use silicone candy molds to shape the dough into snowflakes, trees, or hearts for a delightful and personal holiday touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. Layer wax or parchment paper between the mints, and they’ll stay tender and delicious for up to two weeks—plenty of time to enjoy every last festive piece.

Freezing

Soft Christmas Peppermints freeze surprisingly well. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to an airtight bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just let them come to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

You won’t need to reheat these treats, as they’re served at room temperature. However, if your mints seem a little too firm from the fridge or freezer, leave them out for 10 to 15 minutes and they’ll return to their signature soft texture, ready for snacking or gifting.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Full-fat cream cheese is really best for Soft Christmas Peppermints—it provides a creamy, rich texture. Low-fat versions can make your mints a bit stickier and less decadent, but they’ll still work in a pinch if that’s what you have on hand.

Is it possible to make vegan Soft Christmas Peppermints?

Absolutely! Swap in your favorite dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter. The texture might be just a bit softer, but the results are still delicious and every bit as festive.

Can I make these mints in advance?

Soft Christmas Peppermints are actually better when made ahead—they need time to dry and develop that perfect tender-but-not-sticky shell. Make them a day or two early and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Do I have to use food coloring?

Not at all! The mints are just as tasty left their natural creamy white, but a splash of holiday color makes them extra special. If you want a natural option, try mixing in a bit of beet juice or matcha powder for pink or green hues.

Can I adjust the intensity of the peppermint flavor?

Yes! Start with the amount of extract called for, then taste your dough before shaping. If you love an extra-strong minty zing, you can add a few more drops to suit your family’s preference.

Final Thoughts

There’s something unforgettably joyful about sharing a plate of homemade Soft Christmas Peppermints with the people you love. These tender, classic candies are a breeze to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to bring a little extra magic to your holiday season. Try a batch, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them for every festive occasion!

Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes (includes drying time)
Yield: 60 mints 1x
Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

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Description

These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful holiday treat that are easy to make and perfect for gifting. Creamy, minty, and sweet, these no-bake mints are sure to be a hit at any festive gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Powdered Sugar Mixture:

4 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

Additional:

Food coloring (red, green, or as desired)
Granulated sugar for rolling

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Instructions

Mix Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
Add Peppermint Extract: Mix in the peppermint extract until combined.
Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating until a soft dough forms.
Color the Dough: Divide the dough into bowls for coloring. Add food coloring and knead until evenly colored.
Shape and Roll: Form the dough into balls, flatten slightly, and roll in granulated sugar.
Dry: Place on a baking sheet to air dry for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm outside but soft inside.
Store: Keep in an airtight container.