Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s simultaneously creamy and refreshingly minty, then you’re in for a real delight with this Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe. These tiny confections are like little bursts of buttery sweetness with a cooling peppermint kiss — perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or just a little everyday indulgence. I love making these because they’re simple yet feel so fancy when you pop one in your mouth.
This recipe has a soft, smooth texture that dissolves beautifully, thanks to the rich cream and butter combined with powdered sugar. And the peppermint extract isn’t overpowering; it just adds that perfect hint of freshness. If you want a little colorful flair, adding a few drops of food coloring can make these mints pop visually — like little pastel gems on your dessert table. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together and how often you’ll find yourself reaching for just one more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients work hand in hand to create the ideal texture and flavor balance — buttery richness meets sweet softness and that perfect peppermint zing. When shopping, picking quality unsalted butter and pure peppermint extract really makes a difference in the final taste.
- Unsalted Butter: Use real, good-quality butter at room temperature to ensure smooth mixing and rich flavor.
- Whipping Cream: Adds creaminess and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for sweetness and dusting; make sure it’s fresh to avoid clumps.
- Pure Peppermint Extract: This is the magic touch for authentic mint flavor. Avoid imitation extracts for best taste.
- Food Coloring (optional): A few drops can brighten the mints — I love soft pastel greens or pinks for festive vibes.
Variations
I like to personalize this Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe depending on the occasion or mood. Sometimes I add subtle twists or adjust sweetness — there’s room to make it your own!
- Coffee Lovers’ Mint: Add a tiny bit of instant espresso powder for a mint mocha twist — it’s unexpected but delicious.
- Chocolate-Dipped: After shaping the mints, dip them in melted dark or white chocolate for an extra indulgence.
- Natural Food Coloring: Use beet powder or matcha powder instead of artificial colors for a natural look.
- Sugar-Free Version: Swap powdered sugar with a powdered erythritol blend, keeping in mind texture might change slightly.
How to Make Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe
Step 1: Soften Butter and Mix with Cream
Start by bringing your unsalted butter to room temperature — soft enough to press a finger in but not melted. In a medium bowl, combine the butter and one tablespoon of whipping cream. Beat them together until smooth and fluffy; this ensures the base of your mints is creamy and well-blended, which is key to that melt-away feel on your tongue.
Step 2: Add Peppermint and Start Incorporating Sugar
Next, stir in the pure peppermint extract evenly throughout the creamy butter mixture. Then gradually sift in about 3 cups of powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. You’ll want a dough-like consistency that’s firm enough to shape but still pliable. If it feels sticky, add a little more powdered sugar — don’t rush this part because the texture makes or breaks the mints.
Step 3: Add Coloring and Form the Mints
If you’re using food coloring, add 1-4 drops now and knead the dough gently until the color is evenly blended. Then, roll the dough into small balls or shape them into tiny logs or discs, whichever you prefer. For even sizes, I use a small cookie scoop or roll the dough into a log and cut pieces with a knife. Place your shapes on a parchment-lined tray dusted with some powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Let Them Set and Dry
Allow your butter mints to sit at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a few hours until they dry and firm up. This step is important because it helps the mints hold their shape and develop that signature firm-but-soft texture. I usually let mine rest overnight — this also makes them easier to handle and package if giving as gifts.
How to Serve Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishes, I’m a simple soul — a tiny sprinkle of powdered sugar is enough to give a snowy, delicate look that complements the mints perfectly. If I’m feeling festive, crushed peppermint candy or edible glitter adds a fun touch without overpowering the flavor.
Side Dishes
I love serving these mints alongside a nice cup of hot tea or coffee — the creamy, minty sweetness pairs especially well with a bold black tea or rich espresso. They’re also a great ending note to holiday dinners or brunches when guests want something light rather than heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I arrange these Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe on beautiful glass trays with colorful ribbons tied around small stacks. You can also place them in small decorative boxes or cellophane bags with a cute tag — they make lovely handmade gifts that everyone appreciates.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once your mints are fully set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. I’ve found they keep wonderfully for up to two weeks without losing that terrific texture or flavor. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper if stacking to avoid sticking together.
Freezing
If you want to prepare your Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe well in advance, freezing works quite well. Place the shaped mints on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze until solid, then transfer into a freezer bag or container. They thaw quickly at room temperature and taste just like fresh — perfect for busy holiday prep!
Reheating
These mints are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. However, if they’ve chilled in the fridge and feel too firm, just let them sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften up nicely. This brings back that lovely melt-in-your-mouth experience.
FAQs
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Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe?
While you can use salted butter, I recommend unsalted for better control over the sweetness and flavor balance. Salted butter might add a subtle saltiness that could compete with the peppermint and sweetness, but some folks do enjoy the slight contrast. If you use salted, reduce or omit any additional salt from your other recipes paired with these mints.
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How can I make the Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and the whipping cream with full-fat coconut cream. Keep in mind that these swaps might slightly change the texture and flavor, but you can still achieve lovely soft, minty candies with a bit of experimentation.
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Why are my Butter Mints too sticky?
Sticky mints usually mean there isn’t enough powdered sugar in the mix. Gradually add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the dough is firm enough to shape but not crumbly. Also, chilling the mixture for a bit before shaping can help reduce stickiness.
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How long do these mints last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these butter mints stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks. Keep them away from heat and moisture for the best results.
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Can I add other flavors besides peppermint?
Absolutely! While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with vanilla extract, almond extract, or even orange zest to customize the flavor. Just start with small amounts to keep the balance right.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s one of those old-fashioned treats that feels like a warm hug. They’re easy enough to whip up on a whim yet elegant enough to impress guests or serve for holidays. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these little buttery joys as much as I do — they’re a simple way to bring a bit of sweetness and sparkle to any day.
Print
Butter Mints with Peppermint and Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus drying time
- Yield: Approximately 60 small butter mints 1x
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These classic Butter Mints are creamy, melt-in-your-mouth candies with a refreshing peppermint flavor. Made with simple ingredients like butter, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract, they are perfect for holiday treats, parties, or gifting. Their smooth texture and subtle sweetness make them an irresistible confection.
Ingredients
Butter Mints Ingredients
- 1 stick unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
- 1 tablespoon whipping cream
- 4 cups powdered sugar, divided (plus extra for dusting)
- ½ teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1–4 drops food coloring (optional, for color enhancement)
Instructions
- Soften the Butter: Let the unsalted butter sit at room temperature until it becomes soft and spreadable. This ensures it will blend smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Mix Butter and Cream: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened butter and whipping cream together until creamy and well combined.
- Add Peppermint Extract and Color: Stir in the pure peppermint extract along with your desired amount of food coloring to give the mints a festive hue.
- Incorporate Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 3 cups of the powdered sugar to the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Once fully mixed, turn the dough onto a surface dusted with the remaining 1 cup of powdered sugar and knead it gently until smooth and no longer sticky.
- Shape the Mints: Roll the dough into small balls or shape them into desired mint shapes. You can also use molds if preferred.
- Dust and Dry: Lightly dust the formed mints with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Place them on wax paper and let them sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight to firm up and dry slightly.
Notes
- You can adjust the peppermint extract to taste for a stronger or milder mint flavor.
- Use food coloring sparingly to achieve your desired color without overpowering the mint’s taste.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar to make it easier to handle.
- Store the butter mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- These mints do not require refrigeration and are best enjoyed within a few weeks for optimal freshness.
Keywords: Butter Mints, Homemade Candy, Peppermint Candy, No-Cook Candy, Holiday Treats, Easy Mints Recipe
