Name: Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp condensed milk (full-fat for richness); 1 to 2 tsp peppermint extract; 14 oz powdered sugar (sifted for a smooth cream); 2 tbsp water (plus more as needed); 3.5 oz dark chocolate chunks (such as Ghirardelli 70% cacao)

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Introduction

These Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are a festive treat perfect for the holiday season. Soft, minty creams coated with rich dark chocolate make for a delightful and simple homemade candy. They’re fun to make and even better to share.

The image shows round white cookies with a smooth texture, each dipped halfway in shiny, dark brown chocolate on the top half, sprinkled with small chopped pink and white candy pieces. There are seven cookies on a white speckled plate placed on a dark gray cloth, and three cookies rest directly on a white marbled surface nearby. To the bottom right is a small white bowl filled with glossy melted chocolate with a spoon covered in chocolate resting next to it. Crushed candy pieces are scattered on the marbled surface, adding a festive touch. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp condensed milk (full-fat for richness)
1 to 2 tsp peppermint extract
14 oz powdered sugar (sifted for a smooth cream)
3.5 oz dark chocolate chunks (such as Ghirardelli 70% cacao)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, condensed milk, peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of water. Mix thoroughly to form a stiff paste. If the mixture is too dry, add more water one teaspoon at a time. If too runny, add extra powdered sugar until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 2: Dust a clean work surface and rolling pin with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Roll the peppermint paste out to about 0.5 cm (approximately 1/4 inch) thickness.
Step 3: Dip a 4 cm (approximately 1.5 inch) diameter cutter in powdered sugar, then stamp out 24 rounds from the rolled paste. Place the rounds on a parchment-lined tray and allow them to dry slightly before decorating.
Step 4: Melt the dark chocolate in a heat-proof bowl set over a pan of just simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 5: Spoon the melted chocolate into a piping bag fitted with a small plain nozzle. Pipe the chocolate in a zig-zag pattern over the dried peppermint rounds, decorating each to your liking.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger mint flavor, increase the peppermint extract gradually, tasting as you go.
Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a different look and flavor.
Store the peppermint creams in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
Try adding a few drops of red food coloring to the paste for a festive touch.

Storage

Store the peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and humidity, for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, keep them in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. Reheat chocolate decorations gently if they become too firm.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with seven round white marshmallows, each half-dipped in shiny dark chocolate on the top side. On the chocolate-covered half, there are small pieces of crushed pink and white peppermint candy sprinkled evenly. The marshmallows have a soft, smooth texture, and the chocolate looks glossy and slightly thick. The white marbled surface is visible in the background with a dark brown cloth with red and white striped candy canes blurred behind the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but peppermint oil is more concentrated. Use it sparingly, starting with half the amount, and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the cream.

How long should I let the rounds dry before decorating?

Allow them to dry until they’re firm enough to pick up without losing shape, usually about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on humidity.