Name: Delightful Christmas Peppermint Creams for Festive Cheers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 500 g Icing Sugar (Primary sweetener for structure.); 200 g Condensed Milk (Adds rich creaminess.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Flavoring (For minty flavor.); 2 tablespoons Water (Used for consistency.); 200 g Dark Chocolate (Rich coating; can substitute with milk chocolate.)

As the scent of pine fills the air and twinkling lights brighten our homes, there’s nothing like the joy of making homemade treats for the holiday season. My Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams capture that festive spirit in each delicate bite with their creamy texture and refreshing minty flavor. Perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in after a cozy dinner, these delectable delights are not only simple to whip up but also add a touch of charm to any holiday gathering. You’ll love how quickly they come together using just a few straightforward ingredients, making it easy to bring a sweet touch of Christmas cheer into your kitchen. Ready to impress your loved ones with these delightful peppermint bites? Let’s get started!

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What Makes Peppermint Creams So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy condensed milk and refreshing peppermint creates a delightful treat that enhances any holiday spread.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these festive bites in no time, making them perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Add a splash of vanilla or try a white chocolate coating for an extra twist.
Ideal for Sharing: These Christmas Peppermint Creams make wonderful gifts, presented beautifully in decorative tins, or served on a festive platter at parties.
Fun to Decorate: Top them with crushed candy canes for that extra holiday sparkle!
Indulge in these Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams, which are sure to please at any gathering. Plus, if you’re looking for other sweet treats, check out my candy cane cookies for more festive inspiration!

Christmas Peppermint Creams Ingredients

For the Creams

Icing Sugar – The primary sweetener that gives the creams their structure; using powdered sugar ensures a smoother texture.
Condensed Milk – Adds a rich creaminess; if you’re out, sweetened evaporated milk can work as a substitute.
Peppermint Flavoring – Delivers that signature minty goodness; peppermint extract is a great alternative—just adjust to your taste!
Water – Used to achieve the perfect consistency; start with a little to avoid a runny mixture.

For the Coating

Dark Chocolate – Provides a rich, indulgent coating; you can swap it for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

These Christmas Peppermint Creams are not only simple to prepare but also a lovely addition to your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams

Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 500g of icing sugar, 200g of condensed milk, 1 teaspoon of peppermint flavoring, and 2 tablespoons of water. Mix the ingredients together using a spatula or a sturdy wooden spoon until they form a stiff paste. The consistency should be pliable yet firm, similar to a dough. If it appears too dry, add a little more water.

Step 2: Adjust Consistency
Assess the mixture’s consistency for your Christmas Peppermint Creams; it should hold its shape without crumbling. Gradually incorporate additional icing sugar or water, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a soft yet non-sticky texture that allows for easy rolling. Remember, a perfect balance will yield delightful cream shapes with a smooth finish.

Step 3: Roll Out the Mixture
Dust a clean working surface and a rolling pin generously with icing sugar to prevent sticking. Roll the peppermint paste evenly to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. As you roll, check that the surface remains dusted; this will help maintain that perfect texture and ensure your treats are easy to cut and handle.

Step 4: Cut Out Shapes
Using a 4 cm (1.5 inch) round cutter, stamp out circles from the rolled peppermint mixture. Place each round onto a parchment-lined tray as you go. You should aim for about 24 pieces, so re-roll any scraps as needed. Ensuring they are evenly spaced on the tray will help them dry uniformly, which is key for the next step.

Step 5: Allow to Dry
Leave the cut peppermint rounds on the tray for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step will allow them to dry slightly and firm up, making it easier to coat with chocolate later. You’ll know they are ready when they feel less sticky to the touch, firming up beautifully for the indulgent chocolate topping.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
In a heat-proof bowl, set over a pan of simmering water, melt 200g of dark chocolate, stirring occasionally until smooth and glossy. Be cautious not to overheat; once melted, remove the bowl from heat and allow the chocolate to cool slightly. This helps prevent the peppermint rounds from melting once you start coating them.

Step 7: Coat the Rounds
Once the chocolate has cooled to a manageable temperature, use a piping bag or a spoon to drizzle the chocolate in a zig-zag pattern over your dried peppermint circles. Make sure to fully coat them, leveraging the richness of the dark chocolate to complement the sweet, creamy centers. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before setting them aside.

Step 8: Chill Until Set
Pop the tray of coated Christmas Peppermint Creams into the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set. This will help maintain their shape and give the chocolate a nice, firm crust. The combination of creamy peppermint and rich chocolate will create a deliciously festive treat ready for sharing!

Step 9: Serve or Store
After the chocolate has set, your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a decorative platter or gift them in decorative tins for a delightful holiday treat. If you’re not indulging right away, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they stay fresh and irresistible.

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Storage Tips for Christmas Peppermint Creams

Fridge: Keep your Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This will help maintain their freshness and creamy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, these delightful treats can be frozen for up to 3 months. Lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats! Simply allow them to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if they’ve been in the freezer, and enjoy the refreshing minty flavor as is.

Presentation: When ready to serve, arrange the Christmas Peppermint Creams on a festive platter or in decorative tins. They’ll be the highlight of your holiday gatherings!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify holiday preparations! You can make the peppermint cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can cut the rounds and let them dry on a parchment-lined tray for up to 3 days before dipping in chocolate, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply melt the chocolate and coat the rounds as instructed. This not only saves you time but ensures that your festive treats are just as delicious when you share them with loved ones!

Christmas Peppermint Creams Variations

Feel free to personalize your peppermint creams with these fun and festive tweaks that will elevate your holiday treat!

White Chocolate: Substitute dark chocolate with white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier finish that will delight your taste buds. This swap adds a lovely contrast to the minty filling.
Vanilla Twist: Add a few drops of vanilla extract into the mixture to deepen the flavor. The buttery notes elegantly intertwine with the peppermint, creating a more complex taste.
Crushed Candy Canes: Top your chocolate-coated creams with crushed candy canes for a festive touch. This not only enhances the festive look but offers a delightful crunch with every bite.
Nutty Addition: Mix in finely chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for a rich texture and extra flavor. Nuts complement the creaminess beautifully and provide a delicious crunch!
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the mixture for a surprising twist that pairs well with the sweetness. It adds a warm heat that makes your peppermint creams truly unique.
Colorful Herby: Swap peppermint flavor for a mix of mint and basil extract for an unexpected flavor combination. The freshest, green herb notes can create a whimsical adaptation for adventurous palates.
Zesty Lemon: Add a hint of lemon zest to the filling for a refreshing citrus burst. The tartness will balance well with the sweetness and mint, leaving your taste buds dancing.
Whole-Dessert Approach: Use the peppermint mixture to create a layered dessert by incorporating it into a chocolate mousse or cream pie. This way, you can experience the flavors in a whole new way.

Whichever variations you choose, these tweaks will keep your Christmas Peppermint Creams fresh and exciting throughout the holiday season! And if you’re looking for more ways to sweeten your holiday table, try my delicious gingerbread cookies for the perfect pairing!

Helpful Tricks for Christmas Peppermint Creams

Consistent Texture: Ensure your peppermint paste is just right—not too dry or runny. Adjust water or icing sugar gradually for the perfect consistency.
Prevent Sticking: Dust your workspace and tools generously with icing sugar. This simple step ensures easy rolling and cutting of your Christmas Peppermint Creams.
Chocolaty Coating: When melting chocolate, keep the heat moderate to avoid seizing. Stir frequently for a smooth, glossy finish that complements the creamy centers.
Cut Uniformly: Use consistent pressure when stamping out rounds to ensure even cooking and a professional look; they’ll dry nicely and coat perfectly.
Cooling Time: Allow the peppermint rounds to dry adequately before coating them. This step is crucial for a clean, firm chocolate coating that enhances flavor and presentation.

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams

These delightful morsels create an enchanting holiday atmosphere when paired with festive treats and warm beverages.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate contrasts perfectly with the minty freshness of the peppermint creams, creating a cozy moment.
Spiced Gingerbread Cookies: The warmth of ginger and spices in these cookies enhances the peppermint flavor, adding a lovely holiday warmth to your table.
Creamy Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a festive touch, and its creamy texture complements the smooth peppermint bites beautifully.
Festive Fruit Salad: Brighten your dessert platter with a refreshing fruit salad made of seasonal fruits like pomegranate and citrus, balancing the sweetness.
Chocolate-dipped Shortbread: The buttery crunch of these cookies pairs well with the creamy sweets, offering a delightful textural contrast to every bite.
Peppermint Tea: Offering a light, refreshing finish, peppermint tea will echo the flavors of your creams while providing a soothing after-dinner sip.
Decadent Cheesecake: The rich creaminess of cheesecake, especially when topped with berry compote, creates a spectacular end to any holiday meal.
Holiday Punch: Opt for a sparkling holiday punch, which brings a fizzy effervescence that elevates the sweetness of the peppermint treats.
Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy candied nuts provide a wonderful savory-sweet bite that complements the soft creaminess of your peppermint gems.
Baked Ham: For a savory balance, serve alongside glazed baked ham; the saltiness contrasts elegantly with the desserts’ sweetness.

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Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right peppermint flavoring?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using peppermint extract rather than artificial flavoring. Always start with about 1 teaspoon and adjust to your liking, as extracts can vary in strength. It’s the key ingredient that gives the creams their refreshing kick, so don’t skimp on quality!

What is the best way to store left-over Christmas Peppermint Creams?
The more the merrier! To keep your Christmas Peppermint Creams fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze Christmas Peppermint Creams? How?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, lay the peppermint rounds flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, layering parchment paper between each layer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging. This keeps them beautifully firm and delicious!

What do I do if my peppermint paste is too runny?
No worries! If you find your peppermint mixture is too runny, gradually add more icing sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. The goal is a stiff paste that holds its shape well during shaping and cutting. Just take it slow, and you’ll get there!

Are Christmas Peppermint Creams suitable for people with allergies?
Very important question! These sweets contain condensed milk and chocolate, which may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies. You can find dairy-free alternatives for condensed milk; just be sure to check labels carefully. Additionally, if you’re making these as gifts, it might be a good idea to inform recipients of the ingredients used.

Can pets eat the Christmas Peppermint Creams?
Definitely not! These peppermint creams contain ingredients like chocolate and sweeteners that can be harmful to pets. Always keep your festive treats safely stored away from curious paws and noses to ensure your furry friends stay safe and happy during the holidays.