The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the delightful scents of peppermint and chocolate that wrap you in a cozy hug. One chilly afternoon, while I was clearing out my kitchen, I stumbled upon a forgotten bottle of peppermint extract. Suddenly, an idea sparked: why not recreate those nostalgic Christmas Peppermint Creams I adored as a child? These treats not only evoke festive cheer but are also incredibly easy to make, ensuring that even the busiest of schedules can accommodate a little holiday magic.
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these delightful morsels that are perfect for gifting or sharing at festive gatherings. With a creamy peppermint filling drizzled in rich dark chocolate, these Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are bound to impress friends and family alike. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, sprinkle some powdered sugar, and dive into a recipe that’s sure to sweeten your holiday celebrations!
Why You'll Love This Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams
- This recipe is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to enjoy the festive spirit without spending hours in the kitchen.
- The delightful combination of creamy peppermint and rich dark chocolate offers an unforgettable flavor that will please any palate.
- These treats are versatile enough to be gifted, shared at parties, or even indulged in at home for a little self-care.
- Visually appealing with their glossy chocolate drizzle, they make a stunning addition to any holiday dessert table, bringing joy to everyone who sees them.
Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Ingredients
For the Cream Filling
• Full-fat condensed milk – adds a delicious creaminess that binds the filling together.
• Peppermint extract – the star ingredient for that refreshing, festive flavor; adjust to taste.
• Powdered sugar – forms the base of the filling and helps achieve the perfect consistency; be sure to sift for a lump-free mix.
For the Chocolate Drizzle
• Dark chocolate chunks (70% cacao) – provides a rich contrast to the sweetness of the cream; opt for high-quality chocolate for the best results.
Get ready to experience the joy of making these Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams that will fill your home with delightful holiday spirit!
How to Make Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, condensed milk, peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until a stiff paste forms. Adjust the mixture with more sugar or water until it reaches the desired consistency.
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Roll Out: Lightly dust your surface and rolling pin with powdered sugar. Roll out the paste to about 0.5 cm thick, ensuring the thickness is even for consistent cooking.
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Cut Rounds: Using a 4 cm round cutter dipped in powdered sugar, cut out 24 rounds. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and let them dry slightly.
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Melt Chocolate: In a heat-proof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over simmering water, stirring until it's smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before using.
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Drizzle Chocolate: Transfer the slightly cooled melted chocolate into a piping bag fitted with a small plain nozzle. Drizzle the chocolate generously over the dried rounds, creating a beautiful pattern.
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Chill: Place the chocolate-drizzled rounds in the refrigerator and chill for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to fully set and become crisp.
Optional: Sprinkle some crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cream filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the powdered sugar, condensed milk, peppermint extract, and water, then keep it tightly sealed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chocolate drizzle can also be melted and stored separately, allowing you to simply reheat it when you're ready to finish. When it's time to serve, roll out and cut the rounds, drizzle with chocolate, and chill for just 10 minutes. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, fresh-tasting treats without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams?
Create a festive spread that celebrates the rich flavors and cozy vibes of the season.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm, comforting drink with deep chocolate flavor complements the peppermint creams, enhancing the festive experience. Pairing your treats with a steaming mug of hot chocolate topped with whipped cream is simply magical.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Their spiced sweetness offers a delightful contrast to the creamy peppermint. The crunchy texture of gingerbread beautifully complements the smoothness of the peppermint creams for a perfect holiday duo.
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Peppermint Bark Fudge: Intensify the peppermint theme with this rich, decadent treat. The chewy texture and extra minty flavor bring nostalgia and holiday cheer, making it a delightful addition.
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Mini Cheesecakes: Their creamy, tangy filling acts as a perfect balance to the sweetness of the peppermint creams. Top these with a festive berry compote for a colorful accent that sings of celebration.
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Fresh Fruit Skewers: Bright, seasonal fruits like strawberries, grapes, and kiwi provide a refreshing burst of flavor. They cleanse the palate, letting each bite of the peppermint creams shine.
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Festive Sparkling Wine: A glass of sparkling wine or champagne adds an air of elegance to your holiday gathering. The bubbly texture and subtle fruit notes elevate the sweetness of the treats, perfect for toasting with friends and family.
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Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Salty and sweet, these crunchy snacks harmonize beautifully with your peppermint delights. The contrasting textures and flavors keep the festive treats interesting and fun!
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee or espresso brings out the chocolate notes in your creams. The bitterness of the coffee pairs perfectly with the sweetness, creating a comforting after-meal treat.
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Holiday Sugar Cookies: Decorated or plain, these classic cookies add a nostalgic flair and festive color to your dessert table. They’re a delightful contrast in both flavor and texture when enjoyed with the creamy peppermint delights.
How to Store and Freeze Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams
Room Temperature: Keep your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, away from direct sunlight.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep them longer, store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they are in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: These treats freeze beautifully! Place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper.
Reheating: There's no need to reheat these delights, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your creamy treats uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Swap full-fat condensed milk with coconut cream or almond milk for a delicious, plant-based alternative. The creamy texture still delights without the dairy!
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Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different extracts such as vanilla or almond to surprise your taste buds. Each brings a distinct character that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
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Crunchy Toppings: Add crushed nuts or festive sprinkles on top of the chocolate drizzle for a delightful crunch. It adds texture and a colorful touch to your sweets!
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of cayenne or chili powder to the chocolate for a surprising heat that complements the cool peppermint. It's a bold twist that some will find irresistible!
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Chocolate Variety: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter treat, or try milk chocolate for a classic flavor combination. Each choice creates a unique dessert experience.
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Mini Sizes: Roll smaller balls for bite-sized delights that are perfect for sharing during gatherings. They’re cute, fun, and great for snacking!
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Peppermint Patties: Instead of rounds, shape the filling into patties for a more traditional candy look. These can be wrapped individually for charming gifts!
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Flavor Infusion: Soak the chocolate chunks in a splash of peppermint schnapps before melting for an extra punch. This adult twist could be your new festive favorite!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture in your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams, ensure you sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your mixture.
- If your paste is too sticky or dry, carefully adjust with small amounts of powdered sugar or water until you reach a smooth consistency.
- When rolling out the paste, aim for an even thickness of about 0.5 cm to ensure all rounds dry and set uniformly.
- For the melted chocolate, make sure to let it cool slightly before drizzling, as hot chocolate can melt the cream rounds.
Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe FAQs
What type of peppermint extract should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. It adds that delightful, authentic minty taste. If you only have imitation peppermint extract, it will still work, but the flavor may not be as robust. Adjust to taste, starting with 1 teaspoon and adding more if desired.
How should I store leftover Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams?
For optimal freshness, keep your Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. Just be sure they're well-sealed to prevent any drying out!
Can I freeze these peppermint creams?
Very! Freezing is an excellent option for preserving these treats. Place them in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What if the mixture is too sticky or dry?
No worries! If your mixture for the Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams is too sticky, slowly incorporate more powdered sugar—just a tablespoon at a time—until you achieve the perfect consistency. Conversely, if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water gradually while mixing until it comes together. Be patient; a smooth, pliable paste is key!
Can I make these peppermint creams allergy-friendly?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the full-fat condensed milk with a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, check that your dark chocolate is gluten-free and dairy-free if you have allergies or dietary preferences. Always read labels to ensure that they meet your specific needs.
How do I know when my chocolate is melted perfectly?
When melting the dark chocolate, keep a close eye on it! The chocolate should become smooth and glossy without any lumps. It's best to remove it from the heat just before it's fully melted, as the residual heat will complete the melting process. Stir until fully combined, and you're good to go for drizzling!
Easy Christmas Peppermint Creams
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, condensed milk, peppermint extract, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until a stiff paste forms. Adjust the mixture with more sugar or water until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Lightly dust your surface and rolling pin with powdered sugar. Roll out the paste to about 0.5 cm thick, ensuring the thickness is even for consistent cooking.
- Using a 4 cm round cutter dipped in powdered sugar, cut out 24 rounds. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and let them dry slightly.
- In a heat-proof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over simmering water, stirring until it's smooth and glossy. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before using.
- Transfer the slightly cooled melted chocolate into a piping bag fitted with a small plain nozzle. Drizzle the chocolate generously over the dried rounds, creating a beautiful pattern.
- Place the chocolate-drizzled rounds in the refrigerator and chill for about 10 minutes, allowing the chocolate to fully set and become crisp.
- Optional: Sprinkle some crushed peppermint candies on top for an extra festive touch!
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