Are you ready to add a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations? The Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe is the perfect treat to bring festive cheer to your gatherings! Did you know that homemade holiday candies can elevate your celebrations and create lasting memories? With their delightful texture and refreshing minty flavor, these soft peppermints are sure to be a hit. Let’s explore how to make these irresistible candies that will melt in your mouth!

Ingredients List

To create these delightful Soft Christmas Peppermints, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Suggested Substitutions:

• Corn Syrup: Can be replaced with agave syrup for a different sweetness.
• Peppermint Extract: Use spearmint extract for a milder flavor.
• Food Coloring: Feel free to skip the coloring for a classic white peppermint.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the candies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and light corn syrup. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely.

Step 3: Bring to a Boil

Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for 260°F (126°C), which is the hard-ball stage.

Step 4: Add Flavor and Color

Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the peppermint extract. If you desire, add a few drops of red food coloring to create a swirled effect. Mix gently to combine.

Step 5: Cool the Mixture

Allow the mixture to cool for about 10 minutes until it’s safe to handle. Be cautious, as the candy will be very hot!

Step 6: Shape the Candies

Once cool enough to touch, grease your hands with a little powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Pinch off small pieces of the mixture and roll them into balls or shape them into traditional peppermint shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Dust with Powdered Sugar

Lightly dust the shaped candies with powdered sugar to keep them from sticking together. Allow them to set for about 20 minutes until firm.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per peppermint (approximately 1 piece):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	30
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	0mg
Carbohydrates	8g
Sugars	7g
Protein	0g

These soft candies are a delightful treat, perfect for holiday indulgence!

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to lower the calorie content.
• Natural Flavoring: Opt for natural peppermint oil instead of extract for a more robust flavor without added sugars.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Christmas Peppermints can be enjoyed in various ways:

• Gift Giving: Package them in festive boxes or jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Candy Dish: Place them in a decorative bowl as a sweet addition to your holiday table.
• Dessert Topping: Crumble them over ice cream or cupcakes for a festive touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Soft Christmas Peppermints turn out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Not Monitoring Temperature: Make sure to use a candy thermometer for accurate results; undercooking can lead to a sticky texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing the mixture to cool adequately is crucial for shaping the candies properly.
• Overmixing After Adding Flavor: Stir gently after adding peppermint extract to maintain the texture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Soft Christmas Peppermints fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

• Airtight Container: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
• Avoid Humidity: Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent them from becoming sticky.

Conclusion

The Soft Christmas Peppermints Recipe is a delightful and easy way to add a festive touch to your holiday celebrations. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing flavor, they are sure to be a crowd favorite. Try making them today, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below! Subscribe for more festive recipes and holiday tips.

FAQs

Can I use artificial sweeteners in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with a suitable artificial sweetener, but be mindful of the conversion ratios as they may differ.

How do I prevent the candies from sticking together?

Dusting the candies with powdered sugar and storing them in an airtight container will help prevent sticking.

Can I make these peppermints in advance?

Absolutely! These candies can be made a week in advance and stored properly to maintain freshness.