Introduction
There’s nothing quite like the sweet, cooling flavor of peppermint during the holiday season. These Soft Christmas Peppermints are a delightful treat that not only taste amazing but also fill your home with a festive aroma. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a stunning red and white swirl, they make the perfect gift or a charming addition to your holiday dessert spread. Simple to make and even more fun to share, these little candies will surely brighten your celebrations!
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 2-3 drops red food coloring
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Approximately 50 pieces
Directions and Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Place over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Once the mixture begins to boil, resist the urge to stir! Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 250°F, which indicates it’s at the hard ball stage.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the peppermint extract, allowing the cool, refreshing scent to fill your kitchen.
- Carefully pour the hot mixture onto a greased marble surface or a lightly greased baking sheet. Let it cool for a few minutes until it’s safe to handle but still warm.
- When cool enough to touch, knead the mixture with clean hands until it becomes smooth and slightly cool to the touch.
- Divide the candy dough into two equal portions. Tint one half with red food coloring, keeping the other half white, creating a festive contrast.
- Roll each portion into long ropes, about 1/2 inch in diameter, careful to keep them even and smooth.
- Twist the red and white ropes together to create a beautiful swirled effect, then cut them into small pieces, roughly 1 inch long.
- In a separate bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cornstarch, then coat each peppermint piece in this mixture to help prevent them from sticking together.
- Allow the candies to air dry for at least 24 hours before storing them in an airtight container.
Notes or Tips
- Using a candy thermometer is crucial for achieving the correct texture—take care not to overcook the mixture.
- For a more vibrant color, feel free to add extra drops of red food coloring! Just remember to mix it well.
- These candies make for a beautiful holiday gift; package them in a festive box or tin for sharing with friends and family.
Cooking Techniques
Making these peppermint candies involves a bit of candy-making knowledge and technique. Here are some tips:
- Temperature Monitoring: Keeping a close eye on the temperature ensures you reach the right stage for perfect texture.
- Kneading: Kneading the mixture when it’s warm is key for achieving that soft, chewable consistency.
- Twisting Ropes: When twisting the ropes together, be gentle to maintain the beautiful swirl effect that makes these candies so festive!
FAQ
Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist.
How should I store the soft Christmas peppermints?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and flavorful.
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
While a thermometer is recommended, you can test the mixture by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a hard ball when ready.
Conclusion
These Soft Christmas Peppermints are sure to become a cherished holiday tradition in your home. With their delightful flavor and charming appearance, they capture the spirit of the season perfectly. Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and create a batch of these festive treats that will bring warmth and joy to your celebrations. Happy candy-making!