Edna'S Butter Mints
Creamy, peppermint-flavored butter mints with a smooth texture, perfect for gift-giving or festive occasions. They appeal to sweet lovers and are easy to customize with color.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the margarine, light corn syrup, peppermint extract, and salt together.
- Gradually add the confectioners sugar, mixing until smooth and stiff.
- Shape the mixture into balls.
- Dip a fork into additional sugar and flatten each ball.
- Dry the mints on waxed paper for 8 to 10 hours before storing in an airtight tin.
- Use paste food coloring to tint the mints if desired; do not use liquid food coloring.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure your margarine is very soft before mixing. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the peppermint extract with vanilla or almond extract. When shaping the mints, wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. If desired, you can use a silicone mold for uniform shapes. Use paste food coloring for vibrant hues that won't alter the consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These butter mints make a delightful addition to party platters or as a sweet treat after meals. They pair wonderfully with coffee or hot chocolate, enhancing the flavors of your beverages. For a festive presentation, consider placing them in decorative jars or wrapping them in cellophane for gift-giving. They also complement desserts like the Whipped Cream Topping Jello Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store the butter mints in an airtight tin to keep them fresh and maintain their texture. They can be kept at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing the mints; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Edna'S Butter Mints contains roughly 68 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1759mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these mints in advance?
Absolutely! These butter mints can be made several days ahead of time. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. The mints actually taste better after resting, as the flavors have time to meld together.
What should I do if my mixture is too dry?
If your mixture is too dry, you can add a little more light corn syrup, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. Mixing well after each addition will help ensure that the sugar incorporates smoothly without becoming too sticky.
Is there a way to make these mints vegan?
Yes! To make these butter mints vegan, simply replace the margarine with a vegan butter substitute. Make sure to check the corn syrup as well; most brands are vegan-friendly, but it's always good to verify. Follow the same instructions for a delicious vegan treat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).