Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

If you’re looking to make festive treats fast with this Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams recipe, you’re in for a real holiday treat. These delightful, melt-in-your-mouth candies are a perfect way to spread cheer, whether you’re gifting friends, decorating your holiday table, or just craving a sweet peppermint fix. Simple to prepare and irresistibly tasty, this recipe combines creamy sweetness with refreshing peppermint flavor for a classic Christmas favorite that anyone can make and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Speedy and Simple: Whip up delicious Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams in under 30 minutes without any complicated steps.
  • Perfect for Gifting: These creams make charming homemade presents that look festive and taste gourmet.
  • Nut-Free Delight: The recipe is naturally nut-free, making it allergy-friendly for holiday gatherings.
  • Deliciously Refreshing: The perfect balance of sweet creaminess and cool peppermint flavor awakens your taste buds.
  • Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt with different extracts or decorations to suit your personal holiday style.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, contributing to the buttery texture, creamy sweetness, and that unmistakable peppermint zing that truly defines these festive sweets.

  • Powdered Sugar: Provides the smooth sweetness and structure needed for creamy consistency.
  • Butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes the creams irresistible.
  • Vanilla Extract: Balances the peppermint with a mellow, warm sweetness.
  • Peppermint Extract: The star ingredient that delivers refreshing holiday flavor.
  • Red Food Coloring: Gives your creams that iconic Christmas look with a festive pop of color.
  • Optional Sprinkles: Add texture and sparkle for an extra festive touch when serving or gifting.

Variations for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

One of the best things about this Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams recipe is how adaptable it is. Whether you have dietary preferences, want to switch up the flavors, or simply want to add a personal touch, these variations make it easy and fun.

  • Chocolate Peppermint Creams: Mix in some cocoa powder or dip your finished creams in melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
  • Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use a dairy-free powdered sugar blend for a delicious vegan treat.
  • Mint Mix: Combine peppermint extract with a hint of spearmint or wintergreen for a unique flavor experience.
  • No Color Needed: Skip the red food coloring to create elegant white creams that look lovely in minimalist holiday packaging.
  • Crunchy Candy Cane: Crush candy canes and sprinkle on top while the creams are still soft for a festive crunch.
Easy Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe

How to Make Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by softening the butter to room temperature for easy mixing. Measure out your powdered sugar and have your extracts and food coloring ready. This setup ensures a smooth and quick process.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until you get a smooth, fluffy base that forms the foundation for your peppermint creams.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Color

Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts along with the red food coloring. Stir well to combine, achieving that beautiful rosy hue and irresistible minty aroma.

Step 4: Shape Your Creams

Scoop small spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized rounds or drop onto a parchment-lined baking tray using a spoon or piping bag. This is your chance to get creative with shapes too!

Step 5: Chill Until Firm

Place the shaped creams in the fridge for at least an hour to firm up, giving them that perfect velvety feel that melts in your mouth.

Step 6: Add Finishing Touches

Once chilled, optionally sprinkle your peppermint creams with crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles for a charming holiday look before serving or packaging.

Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

  • Use Room Temperature Butter: This helps the butter and sugar combine smoothly, giving you a better texture.
  • Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Chilling firms up your creams, so they hold their shape and taste perfect.
  • Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to add more or less powdered sugar if you prefer sweeter or milder creams.
  • Use Quality Extracts: Pure peppermint and vanilla extracts make a big difference in flavor intensity.
  • Work Quickly When Coloring: Food coloring sets fast, so mix thoroughly but efficiently to avoid streaks.

How to Serve Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Garnishes

For a festive touch, try topping your peppermint creams with crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or finely chopped pistachios for color contrast and an added crunch.

Side Dishes

These creams pair wonderfully with hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a rich coffee, enhancing the holiday mood with complementary flavors and warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Package your Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams in clear cellophane bags tied with red and green ribbons, use holiday-themed tins, or arrange them on pretty platters as edible decorations for your party table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your peppermint creams fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to preserve them longer, freeze the creams in a single layer on parchment paper, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag—they can last up to three months this way.

Reheating

No need to reheat these treats; simply bring to room temperature before serving for the best creamy texture and peppermint flavor.

FAQs

Can I make Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams without food coloring?

Absolutely! The creams will still taste amazing without the red color, making them a great option for a simple, elegant holiday treat.

How long do Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams last?

Stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge, they stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks.

Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?

Yes! Feel free to substitute peppermint extract with almond, orange, or even cinnamon extract to create your own unique holiday flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for kids to help with?

Definitely. The steps are straightforward and safe, making this a fun and easy holiday activity for kids with some adult supervision.

What’s the best way to package these creams as gifts?

Use small festive boxes, clear cellophane bags tied with ribbons, or holiday-themed tins to add a beautiful and personal touch to your gifts.

Final Thoughts

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are one of those simple yet magical treats that bring joy throughout the holiday season. Whether you’re gifting, sharing with family, or just indulging yourself, this recipe is a festive favorite that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into creating some pepperminty holiday magic today!

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Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: About 24 peppermint creams 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free, Nut Free

Description

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are festive, melt-in-your-mouth candies that combine creamy sweetness with refreshing peppermint flavor. This simple, nut-free recipe is perfect for gifting, decorating, or enjoying as a delightful holiday treat made in under 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting if needed)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Several drops of red food coloring

Optional Ingredients

  • Festive sprinkles for decoration
  • Crushed candy canes for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by softening the butter to room temperature for easy mixing. Measure out your powdered sugar and have your vanilla, peppermint extracts, and red food coloring ready to ensure a smooth and quick process.
  2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until you get a smooth, fluffy base that forms the foundation for your peppermint creams.
  3. Add Flavor and Color: Mix in the vanilla and peppermint extracts along with the red food coloring. Stir well to combine, achieving that beautiful rosy hue and irresistible minty aroma.
  4. Shape Your Creams: Scoop small spoonfuls of the mixture and shape them into bite-sized rounds or drop onto a parchment-lined baking tray using a spoon or piping bag. This step allows creativity with shapes and sizes.
  5. Chill Until Firm: Place the shaped creams in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up, giving them the perfect velvety texture that melts in your mouth.
  6. Add Finishing Touches: Once chilled, optionally sprinkle your peppermint creams with crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles for a charming holiday appearance before serving or packaging.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for smooth and easy mixing.
  • Don’t skip chilling time to ensure creams hold their shape and have the best texture.
  • Adjust powdered sugar amounts to taste for sweeter or milder creams.
  • Use high quality vanilla and peppermint extracts for intense, authentic flavor.
  • Mix food coloring quickly and thoroughly to avoid streaks.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 peppermint cream
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0.1g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: Christmas, Peppermint, Candy, Quick, Holiday Treats, Nut-Free, Gluten-Free, Homemade Gifts

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