Holiday Peppermint Candy
Creamy peppermint candy with a festive flavor, perfect for holiday treats and gifts, appealing to those who enjoy sweet, minty confections with vibrant colors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese, margarine, and corn syrup together until well blended.
- Add peppermint extract and sifted powdered sugar; mix well.
- Divide the mixture into three parts.
- Knead a few drops of food coloring into two of the parts, leaving the third white.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. If you don’t have margarine, unsalted butter works well as a substitute. Adjust the peppermint extract to taste; start with less if you're unsure. To add more color, consider using gel food coloring for vibrant hues. This candy is perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.
Serving Suggestions
These peppermint candies make delightful holiday treats. Serve them on a festive platter alongside other sweets like Faye'S Fudge or use them as a garnish for hot cocoa. For a fun twist, try pairing them with vanilla ice cream or adding them to cookie recipes. They also make great homemade gifts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover peppermint candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to bring back the creamy texture. Avoid freezing, as it may affect the consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Peppermint Candy contains roughly 606 calories, with 0g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 524mg per serving (23% 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 use sugar instead of powdered sugar?
It's not recommended to use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar, as it won't dissolve properly in the mixture. If you're in a pinch, you can make your own powdered sugar by blending granulated sugar with a bit of cornstarch until fine.
How can I make these candies more festive?
To enhance the festive look, consider rolling the candies in crushed candy canes or drizzling melted chocolate over them before they set. You can also shape them into holiday-themed figures or use cookie cutters for fun shapes.
Is it possible to make these without dairy?
Yes, you can create a dairy-free version by substituting the cream cheese with a plant-based cream cheese alternative and using dairy-free margarine. Ensure that the other ingredients are also dairy-free to maintain the recipe's integrity.
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).