Creamy Christmas Peppermints: Easy Homemade Holiday Candy Recipe

Introduction

Let me paint you a picture—the kitchen’s filled with the sweet, minty aroma that only comes from whipping up a batch of Creamy Christmas Peppermints. That scent is pure nostalgia; it wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a snowy December evening. You know the kind of moment I mean—the one where you pause and take in the scene, kids giggling as they sneak a taste, twinkling lights reflecting off bowls of colorful candies. The first time I made these creamy peppermint treats, it was one of those blustery winter afternoons when the world outside was a frosty wonderland. I was knee-high to a grasshopper back then, perched on a stool in my grandma’s kitchen, watching her turn simple ingredients into the most magical holiday candies. That memory stuck with me, and honestly, every time I make these, it’s like stepping back into that warm kitchen—full of laughter, flour dust, and anticipation.

Years ago, I stumbled upon this recipe when I was desperately trying to recreate the creamy mints from a church bake sale. After a few hilarious mishaps (let’s just say powdered sugar gets everywhere!), I finally nailed the perfect blend of creaminess and cool peppermint. The kind of treat that makes you close your eyes for a second and just smile. My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack, and honestly, I can’t blame them. These little candies have become a staple for our Christmas gatherings and last-minute hostess gifts. They’re dangerously easy to whip up, and honestly, I wish I’d discovered this trick years ago. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your Pinterest holiday board or searching for a sweet treat for your kids, these Creamy Christmas Peppermints are about to become your new tradition. And yes—I’ve tested them more times than I care to admit (all in the name of research, of course). You’re going to want to bookmark this one; they’re pure, nostalgic comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I’ve been making holiday candy for years, and trust me, these Creamy Christmas Peppermints have earned their spot as a crowd favorite. You know what? There’s something about homemade mints that just feels extra special—like you’re gifting a little bit of joy with every bite. After testing countless batches (some with more powdered sugar on my shirt than in the bowl), I can say with confidence: this recipe checks all the boxes for ease, flavor, and festive fun. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love making these:

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy holiday schedules or last-minute party treats.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips needed—you probably have everything already in your pantry.
• Perfect for Gifting: These mints look gorgeous in cellophane bags or holiday tins. Ideal for teacher gifts, neighbor treats, or stocking stuffers.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults alike go wild for these. Seriously, I’ve had to hide them behind the flour container just to keep a few for myself!
• Unbelievably Delicious: The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture paired with that cool peppermint zing is next-level comfort food.

What sets these apart from any other peppermint candy recipe? For one, the secret step of blending the cream cheese until ultra-smooth before mixing in the powdered sugar—this little trick gives the mints a silky finish you won’t get elsewhere. Plus, the balance of peppermint extract and vanilla makes them taste like a cross between classic mints and holiday fudge. You can tint them any color you like, roll them in festive sprinkles, or even shape them into tiny trees or stars.

Honestly, this isn’t just another holiday candy recipe—it’s the one that makes people stop and ask, “Wait, did you really make these yourself?” It’s comfort food for your sweet tooth, but somehow fancier and more fun. Perfect for impressing guests without breaking a sweat, or just for turning a quiet evening into a mini celebration. If you’re ready to create a new holiday tradition, these Creamy Christmas Peppermints are calling your name.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfyingly creamy texture. Most are pantry staples, and you can swap a few based on what you have at home. Let’s break down what you’ll need for your Creamy Christmas Peppermints:

• Cream Cheese, softened (8 oz/225g) – The creamy base that gives these mints their rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. I recommend Philadelphia for the best consistency.
• Unsalted Butter, softened (2 tbsp/28g) – Adds richness and helps the mints hold their shape. If you’re dairy-free, use a plant-based butter substitute.
• Powdered Sugar (about 4 cups/480g) – The key to smooth sweetness and the right dough-like consistency. Sift if your sugar is clumpy!
• Peppermint Extract (1 – 1½ tsp/5–7ml) – Provides that classic minty flavor. Start with less and add more to taste—peppermint can be strong!
• Vanilla Extract (½ tsp/2ml) – Rounds out the flavor and keeps things tasting homemade.
• Food Coloring – Red, green, or any festive color you like. Gel colors work best for vibrant hues without thinning the dough.
• Optional Decorations:
  • Holiday sprinkles (for rolling or topping)
  • Crushed candy canes (for a crunchy finish)
  • Colored sanding sugar (adds sparkle)

If you need a gluten-free option, you’re in luck—this recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the powdered sugar by ½ cup (60g), but your mints may be a little softer. For vegan mints, swap in dairy-free cream cheese and vegan butter (I’ve tried Miyoko’s and Earth Balance with good results).

In summer, swap the peppermint extract for lemon or orange extract for a fresh twist. You can even use coconut extract for a tropical take. For a subtle color, stick with pastel tints—just a drop or two of food coloring goes a long way.

Bottom line: these ingredients are flexible. If you’re missing something, don’t stress. You can always adjust and make it work. That’s the beauty of homemade candy!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to whip up Creamy Christmas Peppermints. Here’s the rundown of what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls – One large bowl for mixing, and a smaller one for dividing dough by color.
• Electric Mixer (hand or stand) – Makes blending the cream cheese and sugar a breeze. If you’re mixing by hand, grab a sturdy spatula.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision matters, especially with powdered sugar!
• Baking Sheet – Line with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to keep your mints from sticking.
• Plastic Wrap – For chilling the dough, if needed.
• Small Cookie Scoop or Spoon – Helps portion out even-sized mints. You can use your hands too (kids love this part!).
• Rolling Pin (optional) – If you want to roll and cut shapes instead of forming balls.

If you don’t have an electric mixer, a wooden spoon and some elbow grease will work. For rolling and cutting, I’ve used everything from shot glasses to plastic bottle caps for shapes—so don’t worry if you’re short on cookie cutters! Maintenance tip: Wash your mixer beaters right away, as the sugary dough can get sticky. For budget-friendly options, basic stainless steel mixing bowls and a hand mixer from the discount store do the trick. I’ve made hundreds of batches with the same trusty tools—so you don’t need anything fancy.

Preparation Method

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and let the cream cheese and butter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Softened is key—cold ingredients will clump up and make mixing tough.
2. Blend Cream Cheese & Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together 8 oz (225g) cream cheese and 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Use medium speed for about 2 minutes. The mixture should be lump-free and glossy. If it looks grainy, keep mixing!
3. Add Flavorings: Pour in 1 – 1½ tsp (5–7ml) peppermint extract and ½ tsp (2ml) vanilla extract. Beat until fully incorporated. Give it a sniff—should smell minty and sweet! If you want a stronger peppermint punch, add an extra ¼ tsp.
4. Mix in Powdered Sugar: Gradually add 4 cups (480g) powdered sugar, about ½ cup at a time, beating on low. The dough will start off sticky and then become thick and pliable. Scrape down the sides often. If it’s too sticky after all the sugar, add another ¼ cup (30g); if it’s crumbly, add a splash of milk (½ tsp at a time).
5. Color the Dough: Divide the dough into separate bowls if you want different colors. Drop in a tiny amount of gel food coloring (start with a toothpick dab; you can always add more). Knead gently until color is evenly distributed. Warning: Food coloring stains, so gloves or old towels are your friends!
6. Shape the Mints: Scoop out 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces and roll into balls or flatten into discs. For shapes, roll the dough out to ¼-inch (0.6cm) thick and cut with small cookie cutters. Place on a lined baking sheet, spacing about 1 inch apart.
7. Decorate: If using sprinkles or crushed candy canes, press gently into each mint now. The dough should be soft enough to hold toppings but firm enough to keep shape.
8. Chill (Optional): If your kitchen is warm, pop the tray in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up. This helps the mints set and makes them easier to handle. (Honestly, I skip this step when it’s cold out!)
9. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately, or store in an airtight container. The texture will get even creamier after a few hours.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time (optional): 30 minutes
Total Time: 30–45 minutes
Yield: About 40 mints

Notes: If your dough feels sticky, add more powdered sugar; if it cracks, knead in a drop of milk. Watch for color intensity—gel can be strong. For efficiency, enlist the kids to help roll and color; it’s a fun holiday project! And don’t worry if the shapes aren’t perfect—homemade charm is half the fun.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Making Creamy Christmas Peppermints is pretty forgiving, but I’ve learned a few tricks after many holiday seasons:

• Soft Ingredients Are Key: Cold cream cheese and butter make the dough tough and lumpy. Let them warm up—it’s worth the wait!
• Don’t Overmix: Once the powdered sugar is in, stop mixing when the dough is just smooth. Overbeating can make it sticky and hard to shape.
• Gel Food Coloring Beats Liquid: Liquid food coloring can thin out your dough, making it harder to roll. Gel is more vibrant and keeps the texture perfect.
• Chill for Clean Shapes: If you want sharp shapes (like stars or trees), chill the dough before rolling and cutting. For balls, you can skip straight to shaping.
• Watch the Peppermint Extract: It’s strong stuff—start with less and taste before adding more. Too much can make your mints taste medicinal!
• Decorating: Sprinkle toppings right after shaping, before the mints set. They’ll stick better and look more festive.
• Common Mistake: Adding all the sugar at once can cause lumps. Go slow, and scrape the bowl often.

I’ve messed up a batch or two by rushing and dumping everything in at once (not recommended!). The best batches always came from taking just a little extra time to blend, taste, and color carefully. Multitasking tip: Set up a little assembly line—one person shapes, another decorates, and someone else arranges the mints on trays. That way, you can turn candy making into a fun group project. Consistency comes from sticking with the basics—soft ingredients, gentle mixing, and a little patience. Trust me, you’ll get better with every batch!

Variations & Adaptations

Don’t be afraid to make these Creamy Christmas Peppermints your own! They’re super flexible—here are a few of my favorite twists:

• Dietary Adaptations: For vegan mints, use plant-based cream cheese and butter. They turn out surprisingly creamy!
• Flavor Variations: Swap the peppermint extract for almond, coconut, or even lemon for a springtime version. Orange extract makes gorgeous orange-tinted mints perfect for autumn gatherings.
• Seasonal Decorations: In summer, use pastel food coloring and roll in rainbow sprinkles. For Valentine’s Day, tint pink and cut into hearts.
• Texture Variations: Add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for chocolate-mint mints, or stir in finely chopped dried cranberries for a fruity holiday twist.
• Cooking Methods: If you want softer mints, reduce powdered sugar by ½ cup and chill longer. For firmer mints, add a little more sugar and let them sit out overnight.
• Allergen Substitutions: Use nut-free extract if you’re avoiding nuts, and check cream cheese labels for hidden ingredients. Gluten-free is easy—just stick with the original recipe!

Last year, I made a batch with coconut extract and rolled them in toasted coconut flakes—huge hit at our holiday party! Whatever twist you try, these mints are easy to customize for any celebration or dietary need. Just have fun and experiment!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Creamy Christmas Peppermints are best served at room temperature—they’re soft, creamy, and the flavors really shine. Arrange them on a festive platter, layer in mini cupcake liners, or pile into pretty jars for gifting. If you’re hosting a party, pair them with hot cocoa, mulled wine, or a peppermint latte for the ultimate holiday spread.

To store, keep mints in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They’ll firm up a bit but stay creamy inside. For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag—they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for about an hour before serving. If you like your mints extra soft, let them sit out for 10–15 minutes before enjoying.

Reheating isn’t needed, but if you prefer a slightly warmer treat, microwave for 5 seconds—just don’t overdo it, or they’ll melt. Honestly, the flavors get even better after a day or two, as the peppermint and vanilla meld together. They make the sweetest addition to cookie trays, brunch tables, and holiday dessert boards!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for Creamy Christmas Peppermints (per mint, approx.):

• Calories: 40
• Fat: 1.5g
• Carbs: 7g
• Sugar: 6g
• Protein: 0.5g

These mints are naturally gluten-free, and you can easily make them dairy-free or vegan with a couple swaps. The cream cheese adds a bit of protein and calcium, and peppermint extract is known for its refreshing qualities (plus, it just feels festive!). Just keep in mind there’s plenty of sugar—so moderation is key for anyone watching carbs or sugar intake. Allergens include dairy, so always check your cream cheese and butter labels if you’re sensitive. From a wellness perspective, I love that these candies are bite-sized and easy to portion. They satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard!

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a festive holiday treat that’s easy, fun, and absolutely delicious, these Creamy Christmas Peppermints are the answer. They’ve become a staple in my kitchen, bringing joy to parties, gift baskets, and quiet winter nights. I love how customizable they are—whether you go classic peppermint or experiment with new flavors, they always turn out beautiful and tasty. Honestly, these are the candies I look forward to every December, and I think you’ll feel the same way once you try them.

Go ahead and make them your own—play with colors, shapes, and toppings. I’d love to hear how you adapt them for your own traditions! Drop a comment below with your favorite twist or share your holiday candy photos. Spread a little sweetness this season—your Pinterest followers (and your family) will thank you. Wishing you a kitchen full of laughter and a plate full of creamy peppermint bliss!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Creamy Christmas Peppermints ahead of time?

Yes! You can make them up to 2 weeks in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and they’ll stay fresh and creamy.

Can I freeze these mints?

Absolutely. Lay them out on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

What food coloring works best?

Gel food coloring gives the brightest colors without making your dough too soft. Liquid color can work in a pinch, just use sparingly.

How do I make these mints vegan?

Swap in plant-based cream cheese and butter. I’ve used Miyoko’s and Earth Balance with great results—just check labels for allergens.

Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?

Definitely! Try almond, coconut, lemon, or orange extract for a fun twist. Just keep the measurements the same and taste before shaping.

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