The first time I made these Soft Christmas Peppermints, the clean, bright scent of peppermint oil filled my kitchen, instantly whisking me back to my grandmother’s house in December. It wasn’t just a smell; it was the smell of snow globes, twinkling lights, and anticipation. As I stirred the simple, glossy mixture, I realized I wasn’t just making candy—I was conjuring the very essence of a cozy holiday. The finished mints, cool and smooth as satin, melted on my tongue with a perfect, gentle sweetness. They’re more than a treat; they’re a tiny, edible piece of Christmas magic that’s astonishingly simple to create with just three ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe because it transforms a humble trio of pantry staples into the most delightful, old-fashioned holiday candy imaginable. It’s a no-bake, no-fuss project that’s incredibly forgiving and deeply satisfying. You’ll get to experience the pure joy of creating something beautiful and delicious with your own hands, and the result is a gift from the heart that feels infinitely more special than anything from a store shelf. From my experience, the process is almost as calming and festive as the outcome, making it a perfect kitchen activity to share with loved ones or to enjoy as a quiet, creative moment for yourself.
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- Essential Addition: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon peppermint extract or oil, plus red food coloring (gel is best).
Let’s talk about these ingredients, because their quality is everything. The powdered sugar must be sifted. I learned this the hard way when lazy lumps created a grainy texture in an early batch. Sifting is non-negotiable for that signature satiny-smooth finish. For the peppermint flavor, I highly recommend using peppermint oil over extract if you can find it. The oil delivers a cleaner, stronger, and more authentic peppermint punch that doesn’t fade or taste artificial. A little goes a long way—start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more to taste. And for the love of clean fingers, use gel food coloring! Liquid coloring can thin the dough and make it sticky.(See the next page below to continue…)