Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to indulge in festive treats that warm the heart and bring joy. One such delightful confection is the Soft Christmas Peppermints Delight. These chewy, minty bites are not only visually stunning with their vibrant red and green hues, but they also offer a refreshing burst of peppermint that dances on your tongue with every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or simply a sweet treat for yourself, these soft peppermints capture the essence of Christmas cheer!
Overview of the Recipe
When you make Soft Christmas Peppermints Delight, expect a delightful experience that combines creamy sweetness with the invigorating taste of peppermint. The texture is soft and chewy, making them an enjoyable candy for all ages. Preparation is straightforward and requires only about 15 minutes of hands-on time, although a couple of hours is needed for the candies to firm up.
History and Origin
Peppermint candies have a long and rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages when peppermint was used for its medicinal properties. As sweet confections became popular in Europe, they evolved into the festive delights we enjoy today. Peppermint’s association with Christmas is deeply rooted, making these candies a seasonal favorite in many cultures around the world. The nostalgic flavors often bring back fond memories of family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
To whip up these delightful treats, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Red and green food coloring
– Crushed candy canes (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Soft Christmas Peppermints Delight:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and salt.
2. Add the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Stir until a dough begins to form.
3. Knead the mixture in the bowl until it becomes smooth and pliable, about 3-4 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar.
4. Divide the dough into two equal parts. In one half, drop a few drops of red food coloring, and in the other half, add green food coloring.
5. Knead each portion separately until the colors are evenly distributed and the dough is smooth.
6. Roll portions of dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter), then flatten them slightly to form discs.
7. Arrange the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the discs for an added festive touch.
9. Allow the peppermint discs to air dry for at least 2 hours to firm up.
10. Once set, dust the peppermint pieces with additional powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
The Soft Christmas Peppermints Delight pairs wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, peppermint tea, or even a robust coffee. They make great additions to holiday dessert platters and can also be served as a charming gift to family and friends during Christmas gatherings.
Variations of the Recipe
– Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk to create a dairy-free version.
– Flavor Twists: Add different extracts such as almond or orange for unique flavor profiles!
– Add Nutty Crunch: Mix in some finely chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) for an added texture.
Health Benefits and Notes
While these treats are a sugary delight, peppermint is known for aiding digestion and has a refreshing scent that can alleviate headaches and enhance mood. The use of sweetened condensed milk gives these candies a creamy texture without the need for excessive butter or oils.
FAQs
– How long do these candies last? Store them in an airtight container, and they will typically last for up to 2 weeks.
– Can I freeze them? Yes! You can freeze these peppermints. Just make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
– What if my dough is too sticky? You can add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the consistency is right.
Conclusion
The Soft Christmas Peppermints Delight is truly a festive treat that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season. Whether you’re making them for a gathering, gifting them, or simply enjoying them at home, they are sure to become a favorite. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start creating these delightful peppermint candies today! We’d love to hear how your batch turns out!