Name: Delightful Christmas Peppermint Creams for Easy Holiday Treats
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 250 grams Icing Sugar (Substitute with powdered erythritol for low-sugar); 200 grams Condensed Milk (Opt for dairy-free to make it vegan); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Flavoring (Swap with peppermint extract for stronger flavor); 2 tablespoons Water (Use as needed for desired consistency); 200 grams Dark Chocolate (Milk chocolate or dairy-free chocolate can be used)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Every holiday season, a little magic happens in my kitchen, whisking me away to the enchanting world of festive treats. One of my absolute favorites is these Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams. This recipe makes it a breeze to whip up delightfully creamy and minty bites that are perfect for sharing with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year. The no-bake process ensures you can create these treats quickly while enjoying the cozy moments that come with holiday prep. Plus, their charming presentation makes them a crowd-pleaser for holiday gatherings! Whether you’re indulging on a quiet winter evening or celebrating with friends over hot cocoa, these peppermint creams are sure to bring sweetness to your festivities. Ready to spread some cheer and delight in this effortless treat? Let’s jump into the magic of making our own holiday confections!

Why Are These Peppermint Creams Special?

Simplicity at Its Best: With a no-bake process, you can make these treats quickly and easily, perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Creamy and Minty Delight: The combination of icing sugar and condensed milk creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth, complemented by refreshing peppermint.

Festive Appeal: These eye-catching treats are not only delicious, but they also make for a beautiful presentation during holiday gatherings.

Customizable Treats: Whether you stick to classic peppermint or experiment with different flavorings, these creams are adaptable to fit your festive theme.

Delightful for All: Whether you’re sharing them with family or friends, these peppermint creams will undoubtedly become a beloved treat, adding warmth to your celebrations.

Christmas Peppermint Creams Ingredients

• Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these festive delights:

For the Cream Mixture

Icing Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; substitute with powdered erythritol for a low-sugar version.
Condensed Milk – Ensures creaminess and moisture; opt for dairy-free condensed milk to make it vegan.
Peppermint Flavoring – Delivers that refreshing minty essence; swap with peppermint extract for a stronger flavor.
Water – Adjusts the mixture’s consistency; use as needed to achieve your desired texture.

For the Chocolate Coating

Dark Chocolate – Adds a rich flavor and glossy finish; you can use milk chocolate or dairy-free chocolate as a delicious alternative.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams

Step 1: Mix the Cream Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine icing sugar, condensed milk, peppermint flavoring, and 2 tablespoons of water. Use a wooden spoon to stir the ingredients together thoroughly until they form a stiff paste that holds its shape. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more water gradually, ensuring it’s not too sticky.

Step 2: Roll the Mixture
Dust a clean surface and your rolling pin generously with icing sugar to prevent sticking. Take the peppermint paste and roll it out gently to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Use even pressure as you roll to achieve a consistent thickness, creating a smooth, flat surface that’s ready for cutting into delightful shapes.

Step 3: Cut Out Shapes
Using a 4 cm (1.5 inch) round cutter dipped in icing sugar, stamp out rounds from the rolled peppermint layer. Place the cut-outs on a parchment-lined tray, ensuring they’re spaced apart to allow for slight expansion. Let the rounds dry for about 30 minutes at room temperature, until they firm up slightly.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a heat-proof bowl, melt dark chocolate by placing it over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth and glossy. Be careful not to let any water mix with the chocolate. Once fully melted and silky, remove the bowl from heat and let it cool slightly for easier piping.

Step 5: Decorate the Rounds
Transfer the cooled melted chocolate into a piping bag. Snip off the tip and drizzle the chocolate over each peppermint round in a zig-zag pattern, allowing the chocolate to create a beautiful decoration on top. Ensure the chocolate covers the rounds sufficiently for a delicious finish.

Step 6: Set the Chocolate
Place the decorated peppermint rounds in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes until the chocolate sets firmly. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when the chocolate becomes hard and has a glossy sheen, making your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams look irresistible.

Step 7: Serve or Store
Once the chocolate has set, your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a decorative plate, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful homemade gift, these creamy treats are sure to please!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are a fantastic choice for meal prep during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the peppermint mixture and cut out the rounds up to 24 hours in advance—simply store the cut-outs on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them to maintain their freshness. If you’re looking to save even more time, you can also melt and cool the chocolate ahead, ensuring it’s ready for decorating. When you’re ready to serve, just pipe the chocolate over the peppermint rounds and refrigerate for an additional 10 minutes to set. With this make-ahead strategy, you’ll have delightful holiday treats effortlessly on hand, allowing you to focus on making merry!

Christmas Peppermint Creams Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your own creativity into these peppermint creams for a personalized touch that will excite the taste buds!

Food Coloring: Add a hint of red or green to the peppermint mixture for a festive look that will brighten up your holiday presentation. Just a drop or two will transform these treats into colorful holiday delights.
White Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for white chocolate for a sweeter, creamier coating that pairs beautifully with the minty filling. The contrast of flavors will have your loved ones craving more!
Nutty Crunch: Mix in finely chopped nuts like almonds or pistachios into the cream mixture for a delightful crunch and a nutty richness. This variation brings an exciting texture to the creamy bites.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free condensed milk and substitute with non-dairy chocolate for a vegan friendly version that everyone can enjoy during the holidays! It’s a delicious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Citrus Twist: Try adding a splash of fresh orange or lemon zest into the cream mixture for a refreshing twist that pairs wonderfully with the minty flavor. This wakes up the taste experience beautifully!
Raspberry Filling: Incorporate a layer of raspberry puree in between the peppermint rounds and the chocolate coating for a fruity surprise. This playful touch elevates the sweetness and adds a burst of flavor.
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate coating for a surprising kick! The contrast between the spicy and sweet is a flavor combo that’s sure to impress.
Matcha Twist: For a unique flavor, swap in matcha powder for part of the icing sugar. This gives a lovely earthy taste and a vibrant green color, making these creams visually stunning and intriguing.

Go ahead and enjoy the fun of making these variations, and don’t forget to check out our guide for [Storing and Freezing] for tips on keeping your goodies fresh or our suggestions on entertaining with the perfect [Holiday Drinks] to go with these delightful treats!

Storage Tips for Christmas Peppermint Creams

Fridge: Store your Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This keeps them fresh and creamy.

Freezer: If you’d like to keep them longer, these treats can be frozen for up to 2 months. Layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container for easy access and shape retention.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, simply transfer the peppermint creams from the freezer to the fridge for a few hours to thaw gently. Avoid using a microwave, as it may alter their texture.

Serving: Always serve these delightful peppermint creams chilled for the best taste experience, as the coolness enhances their refreshing minty flavor!

Expert Tips for Christmas Peppermint Creams

Consistency Check: Ensure the peppermint paste is stiff enough to hold its shape when cut. Gradually add water if it’s too crumbly.
Prevent Sticking: Dust all surfaces and tools with icing sugar to avoid any sticky situations when rolling and cutting the mixture.
Chocolate Temperature: Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before piping. This prevents it from running off the peppermint rounds and ensures a beautiful finish.
Creative Shapes: Use different cookie cutters to create festive shapes beyond rounds. Star or tree shapes can add a playful touch to your holiday treats.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with extracts. A splash of orange or raspberry can add a delightful twist to your Christmas Peppermint Creams!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams

Indulging in these creamy, minty bites creates the perfect opportunity to enhance your holiday spread with delightful pairings.

Hot Chocolate: The rich and velvety texture of hot chocolate complements the peppermint’s coolness, creating a warm and festive drink combo.
Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog adds a festive flair that pairs wonderfully with the minty flavors of the peppermint creams.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The smoothness of vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness of the creams, making for a delectable contrast in textures.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced zing of gingerbread adds a cozy warmth that plays off the refreshing peppermint, enhancing the seasonal vibe.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels provides texture, and their chocolate coating harmonizes beautifully with the peppermint’s sweet creaminess.
Mint Tea: A soothing cup of mint tea echoes the peppermint flavor, offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of these delightful treats.
Holiday Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits add a burst of color and a refreshing bite, balancing the richness of the peppermint creams. A citrusy touch works wonders!
Dark Chocolate Espresso: For adults, this rich coffee drink provides a caffeinated lift, perfectly complementing the smooth chocolate layers of the peppermint treats.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the peppermint creams for an added layer of flavor; the sweet and salty combination will be sure to impress!

Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint flavoring?
Absolutely! When choosing peppermint flavoring, look for a product that uses natural ingredients for the best taste. If you prefer a more potent minty flavor, peppermint extract is a fantastic substitute; it typically has a stronger flavor profile and can elevate your peppermint creams to the next level of deliciousness!

What’s the best way to store leftover peppermint creams?
I recommend storing your Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. This helps retain their creamy texture and minty freshness. It’s important to avoid moisture, so ensure your container is airtight. A tip: if you’re planning to serve them later, keep a piece of parchment paper between layers to maintain their shape without sticking together.

Can I freeze Christmas Peppermint Creams?
Yes, you can freeze your peppermint creams! To do this, layer them between pieces of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent them from sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply transfer them to the refrigerator a few hours before serving to allow them to thaw gently. Avoid using a microwave to prevent texture changes.

What should I do if my peppermint paste is too sticky?
Very! If you find that your peppermint paste is too sticky, don’t worry! Gradually sprinkle in some more icing sugar while mixing until it reaches a stiff paste consistency. Dusting your hands, the surface, and rolling pin with icing sugar can also help while rolling out the mixture, making handling easier and preventing it from sticking.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
Nope! While these peppermint creams are delicious for humans, they are not suitable for pets. Ingredients like condensed milk and chocolate can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always keep these treats stored safely away from pets to avoid any health issues.

What are some fun variations of this recipe?
The more the merrier! You can create festive variations by adding food coloring to the peppermint mixture for a colorful touch. Instead of dark chocolate, why not try white chocolate for a sweeter twist? Moreover, experiment with different flavors, like orange or raspberry, to give your peppermint creams a unique spin. The joy of baking comes from creativity, so let your imagination run wild!