Peppermint Creams
Peppermint creams are sweet, mint-flavored confections with a smooth, creamy texture, perfect for holiday treats, gift-giving, or satisfying a mint craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread a large sheet of wax paper on a work surface.
- In a pan, combine the sugar, corn syrup, milk, and cream of tartar.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until sugar is dissolved.
- Increase heat to moderate and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until soft ball stage (238°F).
- Remove from heat and set aside for 3 minutes to cool slightly.
- Beat in peppermint flavoring. Continue beating until creamy.
- Drop by teaspoon onto waxed paper.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the sugar is fully dissolved before increasing the heat. If you want a different flavor, you can substitute peppermint flavoring with almond or vanilla extract. To make the creams more festive, consider adding food coloring to the mixture before dropping them onto wax paper. Always use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
These peppermint creams are delightful on their own or can be served alongside coffee or hot cocoa for a festive treat. They also pair beautifully with the sweet and savory notes of Cheddar And Jalapeno Dip for a fun appetizer spread. Consider using them as a unique garnish for desserts or holiday desserts.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peppermint creams in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If the weather is humid, place a piece of wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. They do not require refrigeration, but avoid exposing them to moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Creams contains roughly 354 calories, with 0g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 powdered sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Using powdered sugar is not recommended for this recipe, as it may alter the texture and prevent the mixture from achieving the right consistency. Granulated sugar is essential for the proper structure and chewiness of the peppermint creams.
What can I do if my mixture doesn't reach soft ball stage?
If your mixture hasn't reached soft ball stage, continue cooking it on moderate heat while stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature closely. If you don't have a thermometer, you can test by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water; it should form a soft ball.
Can I add food coloring to the peppermint creams?
Yes, you can definitely add food coloring to your peppermint creams for a festive touch! Just a few drops will do, and you can mix it in after adding the peppermint flavoring for an even distribution of color.
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).