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Soft Christmas Peppermints

Soft Christmas Peppermints
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Soft Christmas Peppermints are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth holiday candies with a perfect balance of sweet and refreshing peppermint flavor. This easy recipe yields tender, chewy treats ideal for festive snacking, gifting, and holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Optional Ingredients

  • Red and white food coloring (for traditional peppermint look)
  • Cocoa powder or melted dark chocolate (for chocolate peppermint variation)
  • Coconut oil or vegan butter substitute (for vegan option)
  • Beet juice or raspberry powder (for natural coloring)
  • A pinch of cayenne or cinnamon (for spicy peppermint variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and lightly dust it with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Measure and have all ingredients ready.
  2. Cook the Sugar Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Stir gently over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Attach a candy thermometer and bring the mixture to the hard-ball stage (about 250°F or 121°C), ensuring the candy will be soft but hold its shape.
  3. Add Butter and Peppermint Extract: Remove the pan from heat and stir in butter until fully melted and incorporated. Add pure peppermint extract and mix thoroughly to blend the flavor.
  4. Cool and Beat the Mixture: Pour the hot syrup onto the prepared surface and allow it to cool until warm but pliable. Use a wooden spoon or electric mixer to beat the candy vigorously until it turns opaque and creamy, aerating it for a soft texture.
  5. Add Color and Shape: If desired, divide the mixture and knead in food coloring to create classic red and white swirls. Pull and stretch the candy into thin ropes, then cut into bite-size pieces. Dust candies with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer to ensure precise cooking temperature for perfect softness.
  • Beating the candy thoroughly is crucial to develop the soft, creamy texture.
  • Use pure peppermint extract for a bright and clean flavor, avoiding imitation versions.
  • Work quickly once the candy is cool enough to shape, as it hardens fast.
  • Keep hands and working surface dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas peppermint candies, soft peppermint candy, holiday peppermint recipe, festive peppermint treats, homemade peppermint candy

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/soft-christmas-peppermints/