Description
Homemade Butter Mints are a classic sweet holiday treat featuring a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture infused with pure peppermint flavor. These easy-to-make candies combine softened butter, whipping cream, and powdered sugar, colored lightly for a festive appearance. They require no baking and simply dry overnight, making them a perfect no-cook confection to prepare ahead for holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 tablespoon whipping cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar (divided, plus more for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1-4 drops food coloring (or more for brighter colors)
Instructions
- Cream the Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the softened unsalted butter, whipping cream, 1 cup of powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar Gradually: Scrape down any mixture stuck to the sides of the bowl. Add another cup of powdered sugar and continue mixing. Repeat this process of adding powdered sugar in increments and mixing until all 4 cups are fully incorporated and the dough starts to pull away from the sides of the bowl, forming a pliable dough.
- Divide the Dough: For multiple colors, weigh the dough and divide it evenly into portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
- Color the Dough: Take one dough portion and add 1-4 drops of food coloring. Knead the dough to evenly distribute the color, then rewrap and chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Repeat for remaining dough portions and colors.
- Shape the Mints: Dust a cutting board lightly with powdered sugar. Roll each colored dough portion into a rope approximately ½ inch thick. Using a sharp knife or dough scraper, cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces.
- Dry the Mints: Place the cut pieces on the cutting board or on a baking sheet. Allow them to air dry at room temperature for about 12 hours to set and firm up.
- Store the Mints: Once dry, store the butter mints in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use powdered sugar for a smooth texture and to help the mints set properly.
- Adjust the amount of food coloring to achieve desired tint intensity.
- Drying time is essential to firm the mints; do not skip the 12-hour drying period.
- Butter mints are best enjoyed within two weeks for optimal freshness.
- You can wrap individual mints in wax paper for gifting or presentation.
