Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

If you’re dreaming of a festive treat that’s both quick and irresistibly delicious, these Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are exactly what you need. They come together in minutes, blending the refreshing zing of peppermint with a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, these peppermint creams offer holiday joy in every bite without the hassle of complicated preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Speedy preparation: You can whip these up in under 15 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute holiday cravings.
  • Festive flavor: The cool peppermint and sweet cream taste perfectly capture the spirit of Christmas.
  • Simple ingredients: Made with everyday pantry staples, so no hunting down specialty items.
  • Versatility: Great as gifts, party favors, or just a special treat for yourself.
  • Kid-friendly fun: Easy to involve little helpers in the kitchen for some festive bonding time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these sweets lies in a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one adds to the creamy texture, the perfect peppermint punch, or the charming festive look of your peppermint creams.

  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and structure to the creams.
  • Condensed milk: Adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together flawlessly.
  • Butter: Ensures a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Peppermint extract: Delivers that unmistakable holiday mint flavor in every bite.
  • Red food coloring: Gives your creams a festive pop of color.
  • Powdered sugar: Used for dusting or mixing to prevent stickiness and add smoothness.

Variations for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

These Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to tweak for dietary preferences or experiment with flavors, you’ll find it easy to customize this recipe.

  • Chocolate swirl: Add melted dark or white chocolate for a marbled effect and a chocolaty twist.
  • Vegan alternative: Use vegan butter and condensed coconut milk to keep it plant-based yet delicious.
  • Nutty touch: Fold in finely chopped pistachios or almonds for added crunch and festive green hues.
  • Zesty upgrade: Incorporate a hint of orange zest along with peppermint for a citrusy note that complements the mint.
  • Spicy kick: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne or ground cinnamon to give a surprising warmth alongside the cool peppermint.
Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams to Try Tonight

How to Make Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Start by lining a small baking tray or shallow dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients for quick access because this recipe is all about smooth, fast assembly.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Mix Ingredients

In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently melt the butter until fully liquid but not browned. Remove from heat, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and sugar until completely combined and smooth.

Step 3: Add Peppermint and Color

Mix in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring. Adjust the color intensity depending on how festive you want your creams to look. Stir well to blend flavor and hue evenly.

Step 4: Pour and Chill

Pour the mixture into the prepared tray, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the mixture is firm and easy to cut.

Step 5: Cut and Dust

Once chilled and set, remove from the fridge, cut the block into bite-sized squares or festive shapes, then dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and give a frosted look.

Pro Tips for Making Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

  • Use fresh peppermint extract: Freshly opened extract packs a stronger, cleaner peppermint punch.
  • Watch the heat: Keep butter melting on low heat to avoid browning which changes flavor.
  • Chill thoroughly: Don’t rush chilling time; it’s key for perfect texture and ease of cutting.
  • Uniform shapes: Use a sharp knife or cookie cutters for neat, professional-looking pieces.
  • Store properly: Keep creams in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

How to Serve Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra powdered sugar or edible glitter for a snowy effect. Crush some candy canes to sprinkle on top, adding texture and enhanced peppermint flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair peppermint creams with warm beverages like hot cocoa, spiced cider, or peppermint tea for a harmonious holiday treat combo.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange creams in small festive tins or colorful boxes with tissue paper to gift them. Alternatively, display them on a holiday-themed platter with seasonal decorations like holly or mini ornaments for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer freshness, refrigerate, but bring to room temperature before serving for optimal texture.

Freezing

You can freeze peppermint creams wrapped tightly in wax paper and stored in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

These creams are best served chilled or at room temperature. Avoid reheating as it changes the texture and can cause melting or stickiness.

FAQs

Can I substitute peppermint extract with something else?

Yes, you can use spearmint extract or even crushed peppermint candies for flavor, but peppermint extract provides the classic holiday taste most associated with this recipe.

Are Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe contains no gluten ingredients, making it a safe festive treat for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make these creams dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use sweetened condensed coconut milk to keep the creamy texture while making the recipe vegan and dairy-free.

How long do Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about one week at room temperature or up to two weeks refrigerated.

Can I add other flavors to the recipe?

Certainly! Ingredients like vanilla, orange zest, or a hint of cinnamon can be added to personalize the flavor and add holiday variety.

Final Thoughts

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are one of those delightful treats that combine ease with elegance, perfect for bringing festive cheer anytime during the holidays. Whether you whip them up for a family gathering, holiday gifts, or just a special little indulgence, they’re sure to brighten your celebrations. Go ahead and try this recipe tonight—your taste buds will thank you!

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Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are a festive, easy-to-make holiday treat combining the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a smooth, creamy texture. Ready in under 15 minutes, these melts-in-your-mouth sweets are perfect for last-minute celebrations, gifting, or cozy nights in, using simple pantry ingredients to deliver holiday joy without hassle.

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: About 36 bite-sized pieces 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: No baking required, chilling method
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Red food coloring, a few drops (adjust to preference)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a small baking tray or shallow dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Gather all your ingredients for quick access because this recipe is all about smooth, fast assembly.
  2. Melt the Butter and Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over low heat, gently melt the butter until fully liquid but not browned. Remove from heat, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk and sugar until completely combined and smooth.
  3. Add Peppermint and Color: Mix in the peppermint extract and a few drops of red food coloring. Adjust the color intensity depending on how festive you want your creams to look. Stir well to blend flavor and hue evenly.
  4. Pour and Chill: Pour the mixture into the prepared tray, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the mixture is firm and easy to cut.
  5. Cut and Dust: Once chilled and set, remove from the fridge, cut the block into bite-sized squares or festive shapes, then dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and give a frosted look.

Notes

  • Use fresh peppermint extract for the strongest, cleanest flavor.
  • Melt butter gently over low heat to avoid browning and changing the flavor.
  • Chill thoroughly for the best texture and ease of cutting.
  • Use a sharp knife or cookie cutters for uniform, professional shapes.
  • Store creams in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 10g)
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 10mg
  • Fat: 3.5g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 7.5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0.3g
  • Cholesterol: 7mg

Keywords: christmas, peppermint, sweets, holiday treat, quick recipe, gluten free, creamy, festive, peppermint extract

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