Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

If you’re looking for a festive treat that’s as quick to whip up as it is delicious to enjoy, these Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams will become your new holiday favorite. They’re simple, melt-in-your-mouth candies bursting with refreshing peppermint flavor and just the right amount of creamy sweetness. Perfect for sharing at holiday parties or gifting in pretty jars, these creams bring that magical Christmas spirit to your kitchen with a delightfully easy recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Easy: The recipe uses minimal, common ingredients and takes just minutes to prepare, making it ideal for last-minute holiday treats.
• Festive Flavor: Peppermint brings a fresh, invigorating taste that screams Christmas with every bite.
• Wallet-Friendly: No need for expensive candy molds or specialty ingredients, keeping it budget-friendly and accessible.
• Perfect Texture: These creams are soft yet firm enough to hold their shape, offering a satisfying melt-on-your-tongue sensation.
• Great for Gifting: They look beautiful wrapped up or nestled in a decorative box, making thoughtful homemade presents.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe combines a handful of simple, essential ingredients that work together to create that perfect balance of smoothness, sweetness, and peppermint zest. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the texture and overall flavor profile of the Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams.

• Powdered Sugar: The base of the creams providing sweetness and a smooth texture perfect for shaping.
• Butter: Adds richness and a luscious creaminess, helping the candies hold their form.
• Peppermint Extract: Delivers the signature bright, refreshing flavor that defines these creams.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Balances the sweetness and contributes to a soft, creamy consistency.
• Food Coloring (optional): Red or green drops to bring holiday cheer with festive colors.

Variations for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Feel free to customize and put your spin on this quick and easy treat. The simplicity of the base recipe makes it adaptable for different flavor profiles, dietary preferences, or festive looks.

• Chocolate Peppermint: Add melted dark or white chocolate swirls before chilling for an elegant twist.
• Vegan Version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use plant-based milk for a dairy-free treat.
• Mint-Chocolate Chips: Mix small chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor bursts.
• Natural Coloring: Use beet juice or spirulina powder for natural, holiday-appropriate coloring.
• Crushed Candy Cane Topping: Sprinkle finely crushed candy canes on top before chilling to add extra festive crunch.

How to Make Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and let the butter come to room temperature for easier mixing. Sift the powdered sugar to prevent lumps and have your peppermint extract and cream ready to go.

Step 2: Mix the Base

In a mixing bowl, blend the softened butter with powdered sugar until smooth. Slowly add in the heavy cream and peppermint extract, mixing until you achieve a thick, pliable dough-like consistency. If you’re using food coloring, add it here and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape the Creams

Using a small spoon or your hands, pinch off small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-size balls, or shape them into small discs for a classic peppermint cream look. Place each piece on parchment-lined trays.

Step 4: Chill Until Firm

Refrigerate the shaped creams for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle without sticking. This chilling step ensures they hold their shape and develop that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 5: Add Final Touches

If desired, sprinkle with crushed candy canes or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving or packaging as gifts. Enjoy immediately or keep them chilled until ready to serve.

Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

• Room Temperature Butter: Soft butter blends more easily with powdered sugar for a smooth texture.
• Controlled Liquid Addition: Add cream or milk gradually to avoid a mixture that’s too wet or sticky.
• Use Fresh Peppermint Extract: Old extract can lose potency, so fresh extract makes all the difference in flavor.
• Chill Thoroughly: Don’t rush the refrigeration; it’s crucial for the creamy texture and easy handling.
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly dust your hands with powdered sugar when forming the creams to keep fingers from sticking.

How to Serve Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Garnishes

Sprinkle finished creams with crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or finely chopped nuts to elevate their festive appearance and add delightful texture contrasts.

Side Dishes

These peppermint creams pair wonderfully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, eggnog, or coffee, balancing rich drinks with their cool, creamy flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the creams in decorative holiday tins or transparent gift boxes with ribbons for an inviting homemade present, or serve them on tiered dessert trays at holiday parties to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks to retain freshness and firmness.

Freezing

Wrap each cream individually in wax or parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

These creams are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so avoid reheating; instead, allow them to come naturally to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

FAQs

Can I make these peppermint creams without dairy?

Absolutely! You can substitute butter with coconut oil and use any plant-based milk or cream to create a delicious dairy-free version.

How long do Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams last?

Stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to two weeks, making them a great make-ahead holiday treat.

Is it necessary to chill the creams?

Yes, chilling helps the creams firm up so they hold their shape and get that perfect creamy texture.

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with spearmint, vanilla, or even almond extract to create unique flavors.

Are these creams suitable for kids?

Definitely! These treats are soft, sweet, and mild enough for children to enjoy, just be sure to supervise for any peppermint sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are a delightful holiday treat that combines ease, flavor, and festive cheer in every bite. Whether you’re gifting them, serving guests, or simply enjoying a cozy moment by the fire, this recipe is sure to become a beloved part of your seasonal traditions. Give them a try and watch how they light up your holiday celebrations!

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