Holiday treats should always feel a little magical, and Holiday Butter Mints bring that sweet, creamy, melt-in-your-mouth charm to your celebrations. These delicate confections are perfect for sharing, decorating a dessert table, or simply savoring alongside a cup of tea.
The first time I made these, I was enchanted by how such simple ingredients could create something so elegant. With a touch of peppermint and festive colors, they’ve become a staple in my holiday traditions.
What I love most is how versatile they are. Shape them into festive designs, tint them in holiday hues, or add a little sparkle with sanding sugar. Let’s make these Holiday Butter Mints and create a sweet moment of joy this season.
The Holiday Butter Mints are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth candies flavored with peppermint and tinted in festive colors. These easy-to-make treats are perfect for gifting, snacking, or decorating holiday tables.
With just a few pantry staples and endless customization options, this recipe is a quick and delightful addition to your holiday traditions.
An Exciting Story:
The first time I served Holiday Butter Mints at a holiday gathering, they disappeared faster than I could refill the dish. My husband loved their creamy texture, and my kids enjoyed shaping them into tiny festive designs. Now, they’re a must-have for every holiday season!
Why These Holiday Butter Mints?
- Quick and Easy: No cooking required—just mix, shape, and chill.
- Customizable: Add your own colors, flavors, or shapes.
- Perfect for Gifting: A homemade treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: Buttery, creamy, and lightly minty.
- Great for All Ages: Fun to make with kids and adults alike.
What You Need for Holiday Butter Mints
- For the Mints:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- Gel food coloring (red, green, or any festive colors)
- Optional Garnishes:
- Sanding sugar
- Edible glitter
How to Make Holiday Butter Mints
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Beat until the mixture forms a smooth, pliable dough. If the dough is too dry, add more cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Divide and Color:
- Divide the dough into portions, depending on how many colors you’d like to use. Add a drop of gel food coloring to each portion and knead until the color is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mints:
- Roll each portion of dough into thin ropes (about ½ inch thick) and cut into small pieces (about ½ inch long). Alternatively, press the dough into silicone candy molds for festive shapes.
- Chill:
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Optional Decoration:
- Roll the mints in sanding sugar or edible glitter for a sparkling finish.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish or package in decorative tins for gifting.
Tips for Holiday Butter Mints
- Use Gel Food Coloring: It provides vibrant colors without altering the consistency of the dough.
- Keep Your Hands Cool: Warm hands can soften the dough; chill your hands if necessary.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Change the Flavor: Substitute peppermint extract with vanilla, almond, or orange extract for a different twist.
- Try a Chocolate Version: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate-mint variation.
- Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters or molds to create holiday-themed designs.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Use plant-based butter and coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute powdered sugar with a sugar-free alternative for a lower-sugar treat.
Closing for Holiday Butter Mints:
And there you have it—Holiday Butter Mints that are as sweet and festive as the season itself. Perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply enjoying, these little confections will brighten any holiday celebration. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our holiday-inspired recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions for Holiday Butter Mints
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to 2 weeks in advance if stored in an airtight container. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. - Can I freeze butter mints?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. - What if my dough is too sticky?
Add more powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough is firm and pliable. - How do I prevent cracking when shaping the mints?
Knead the dough thoroughly to ensure it’s smooth before shaping. - What pairs well with butter mints?
Serve alongside coffee, hot cocoa, or holiday cookies for a festive treat. - How do I make them sparkle?
Roll the mints in sanding sugar or edible glitter before chilling. - Can I use liquid food coloring?
Yes, but reduce the heavy cream slightly to prevent the dough from becoming too soft. - What if I want softer mints?
Add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream to create a creamier texture. - Can I add mix-ins?
Yes, finely chopped chocolate or crushed candy canes can be added for extra flavor and texture. - What’s a creative serving idea?
Arrange the mints in small decorative tins or jars for gifting. - How do I ensure uniform sizes?
Use a small cookie scoop or measure pieces before rolling.
Holiday Butter Mints
4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcal0
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- For the Mints:
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups 4 powdered sugar, sifted
2 tbsp 2 heavy cream
1 tsp 1 peppermint extract
Gel food coloring (red, green, or any festive colors)
- Optional Garnishes:
Sanding sugar
Edible glitter
Directions
- Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and peppermint extract. Beat until the mixture forms a smooth, pliable dough. If the dough is too dry, add more cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it holds together.
- Divide and Color:
- Divide the dough into portions, depending on how many colors you’d like to use. Add a drop of gel food coloring to each portion and knead until the color is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mints:
- Roll each portion of dough into thin ropes (about ½ inch thick) and cut into small pieces (about ½ inch long). Alternatively, press the dough into silicone candy molds for festive shapes.
- Chill:
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Optional Decoration:
- Roll the mints in sanding sugar or edible glitter for a sparkling finish.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish or package in decorative tins for gifting.
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