Name: Deliciously Easy Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 250 g Icing Sugar (Essential for sweetness and gives the creams their classic texture.); 200 g Condensed Milk (Use sweetened condensed milk for perfect creamy consistency.); 1 tsp Peppermint Flavoring (Adjust quantity based on desired minty kick.); 2 tbsp Water (Add as needed to reach perfect mixture consistency.); 200 g Dark Chocolate (Provides rich, indulgent coating.)

As the festive season approaches, I find myself yearning for the vibrant flavors and delightful aromas that make holiday gatherings so special. I stumbled upon this simple yet exquisite recipe for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams while searching for a quick treat to impress my family. The moment those soft, minty confections melt in your mouth, paired with the rich, dark chocolate coating, you'll understand why these sweets are a holiday must-have.

With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, these peppermint creams are perfect for unexpected guests or as thoughtful homemade gifts. They not only embody the spirit of the season but also allow you to step away from the fast-food rut we sometimes find ourselves in. Whether enjoyed alongside your favorite cup of cocoa or shared at a holiday potluck, these festive delights are sure to bring a smile to everyone's face. Let's dive into this delightful recipe and spread some holiday cheer!

Why will you love these Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams?

Simplicity and Ease: With just a few ingredients and quick instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy holiday schedules.

Flavorful Indulgence: Enjoy the creamy mint flavor blended with a rich chocolate coating, bringing a festive cheer to your palate.

Versatile Treats: Customize them to your liking by experimenting with different chocolate coatings or flavors, making them uniquely yours.

Perfect for Gifting: These delightful confections make thoughtful gifts, ideal for impressing friends and family during the holiday season.

Crowd-Pleasing Goodness: Whether paired with coffee or served at parties, everyone will adore these delightful little bites that add joy to any gathering.

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams Ingredients

Transform your holiday treats with these delightful sweets!

For the Mixture
• Icing Sugar - Essential for sweetness and gives the creams their classic texture.
• Condensed Milk - Choose sweetened condensed milk to achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
• Peppermint Flavoring - Adjust the quantity based on your desired minty kick.
• Water - Add in teaspoons to reach the perfect mixture consistency.

For the Chocolate Coating
• Dark Chocolate - Provides a rich and indulgent coating; can be swapped with milk or white chocolate for a different touch.

These Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are sure to elevate your holiday gatherings!

How to Make Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the icing sugar, condensed milk, peppermint flavoring, and 2 tablespoons of water. Stir until a stiff paste forms; add more water or icing sugar as needed for the right texture.
Roll the Mixture: Dust a clean surface and your rolling pin with icing sugar. Roll out the peppermint paste to about 0.5 cm thickness, ensuring an even layer for uniform cutting.
Cut Out Rounds: Use a 4 cm diameter cutter dusted with icing sugar to stamp out approximately 24 rounds. Place these on a parchment-lined tray to dry slightly before coating.
Melt Chocolate: In a heat-proof bowl over simmering water, melt the dark chocolate, stirring continuously until it's completely smooth. Make sure not to overheat to keep it silky!
Pipe the Chocolate: Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly, then transfer it to a piping bag fitted with a plain nozzle. Pipe a zig-zag pattern over the dried peppermint rounds for a beautiful finish.
Chill and Enjoy: Place the decorated peppermint creams in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the chocolate has completely set, then enjoy or store them for later!

Optional: For added flair, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy over the chocolate before it sets.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams?

Indulging in these easy-to-make peppermint treats brings joy, but pairing them with the right delights elevates your holiday experience even more.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of hot chocolate amplifies the peppermint flavor while creating a cozy drink to sip on.
Freshly Brewed Coffee: Brewed coffee's slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the creams, making each bite and sip a festive delight.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spicy cookies bring a lovely contrast to the creamy mint, evoking traditional holiday flavors with every bite.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess provides a delightful texture contrast, allowing the minty flavor to shine through in a new way.
Peppermint Tea: This complementary beverage enhances the peppermint experience, offering a soothing warmth that pairs beautifully with sweets.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The crunchy saltiness of pretzels makes a hearty snack that contrasts perfectly with the creamy, rich peppermint flavors.
Fruit Platter: A vibrant assortment of fresh fruits, like strawberries and oranges, adds bright, tangy notes that cleanse the palate between sweets.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider offers a comforting and aromatic drink option that harmonizes wonderfully with festive confections.

Expert Tips for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for icing sugar and condensed milk to achieve that perfect creamy texture. Too much moisture can ruin the consistency.
Chill Before Coating: Allow the peppermint rounds to dry for at least 30 minutes before coating with chocolate. This step helps prevent them from melting during the process.
Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for good-quality dark chocolate for a rich flavor. Avoid overheating it to maintain a smooth and glossy finish on your quick Christmas peppermint creams.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to customize! Try adding a touch of vanilla or replacing peppermint flavoring with orange zest for a festive twist.
Store Properly: Keep your peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious for your holiday gatherings.

Storage Tips for Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams

Room Temperature: Keep your peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for best freshness and flavor retention.

Refrigerator: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge; they'll last up to two weeks. Just ensure they remain in an airtight container to avoid moisture.

Freezer: For even longer storage, freeze the peppermint creams for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen peppermint creams in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture before serving.

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams Variations

Get ready to add your personal touch to these festive delights!

Flavor Swap: Replace peppermint flavoring with vanilla extract or orange zest for a unique twist that dances on the palate.
Chocolate Coating Options: Go for creamy milk chocolate or sweet white chocolate instead of dark-each brings a different light to your treat.
Add a Crunch: Fold in crushed candy canes into the peppermint mixture for a delightful textural surprise and extra holiday flair.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free icing sugar and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for a worry-free festive indulgence.
Sugar-Free Alternative: Opt for sugar-free icing sugar and sweetened condensed milk to cater to your health-conscious friends without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder into the chocolate coating for an unexpected, festive heat that will wow your taste buds.
Miniature Versions: Create bite-sized versions by using a smaller cutter; an adorable treat perfect for snacking during the holiday bustle.
Vegan Option: Substitute condensed milk with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate for a creamy, plant-based delight everyone can enjoy.

Let your creativity shine and make these peppermint creams uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the peppermint mixture and roll it out up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the tray with plastic wrap to keep them from drying out. Once cut, store the rounds in an airtight container at room temperature. The chocolate coating can also be made ahead; just ensure it is kept cool and reheat briefly before use. When ready to serve, simply pipe the chocolate over the rounds and chill for about 10 minutes until set, allowing you to enjoy these festive treats with minimal effort!

Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams Recipe FAQs

What type of icing sugar should I use?
Always opt for powdered or confectioners' sugar as it's finely milled, allowing for a smooth texture in your peppermint creams. Regular granulated sugar won't dissolve properly and may lead to a gritty consistency in your final product.

How should I store Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams?
Store your peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week for the best flavor. If longer storage is needed, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just remember to keep them in an airtight container to prevent moisture from affecting their texture.

Can I freeze these peppermint creams?
Absolutely! You can freeze Quick Christmas Peppermint Creams for up to three months. To do this, layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each layer to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

What should I do if my mixture is too wet or dry?
If your mixture is too dry, gradually add a teaspoon of water until it reaches the desired consistency. Conversely, if it's too wet, simply add more icing sugar, one tablespoon at a time, mixing well in between. The goal is to achieve a stiff yet pliable paste.

Can I use different flavorings or chocolates?
Very! You can swap peppermint flavoring for other flavors like vanilla or orange zest for a unique twist. Additionally, if you're not a fan of dark chocolate, feel free to substitute with milk or white chocolate for coating, tailoring the taste to your preference.

Are these peppermint creams safe for pets or dietary restrictions?
It's best to keep peppermint creams away from pets, particularly dogs, as chocolate is toxic to them. For dietary restrictions, always check ingredient labels to avoid allergens, especially if you're offering these sweets to others; consider using dairy-free chocolate or sweeteners as needed.