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Peppermint Creams

Peppermint Creams

Peppermint Creams are a quick and easy homemade candy bursting with fresh mint flavor and a creamy, chewy texture. Made with simple pantry ingredients, these festive treats are perfect for holiday gifting, cozy snacking, or adding a refreshing sweet bite to your beverage. This classic recipe guides you step-by-step to create smooth, minty confections that can be customized with colors, flavors, and toppings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups confectioners’ sugar (plus extra for dusting)
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
  • Food coloring (optional: red, green, or white)

Optional Toppings and Variations

  • Melted dark chocolate (for drizzle)
  • Crushed candy cane (for garnish)
  • Natural colorings like beet juice or spirulina powder
  • Alternative sweeteners (such as erythritol for sugar-free version)
  • Vanilla or almond extract (for flavor variations)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy removal of the candies. Measure and have all ingredients ready as the process moves quickly once the mixture heats up.
  2. Combine Sugar, Corn Syrup, and Water: In a medium saucepan, gently mix confectioners’ sugar, light corn syrup, and water to avoid dust clouds. Stir until smooth, then bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, avoiding stirring to prevent crystallization.
  3. Cook Until Soft-Ball Stage: Using a candy thermometer, heat the mixture until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage). Immediately remove from heat to ensure the perfect chewy texture of the creams.
  4. Flavor and Color the Mixture: Let the mixture cool slightly before stirring in the pure peppermint extract and any optional food coloring. Mix well to distribute flavor and color evenly.
  5. Shape Your Peppermint Creams: Spoon small dollops or pipe the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to prevent sticking as they set.
  6. Dust with Powdered Sugar and Let Set: Lightly dust the candies with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Allow them to rest at room temperature for several hours until fully firm.

Notes

  • Use a candy thermometer for precise temperature control to achieve ideal texture.
  • Avoid stirring the boiling mixture to prevent sugar crystallization.
  • Use room temperature peppermint extract for better blending.
  • Work quickly once off the heat, as the mixture sets fast.
  • Store finished peppermint creams in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft.

Nutrition

Keywords: peppermint creams, homemade candy, peppermint candy recipe, festive treats, mint candy, easy candy, holiday candy, gluten free candy