Peppermint Microwave Candy
A festive, easy-to-make peppermint candy featuring white chocolate and crushed peppermint mints, perfect for holiday treats or gifting. Rich, minty, and indulgent flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crush the red and white hard peppermints in a blender until fine.
- Melt the white chocolate in the microwave on 70% power for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir to finish melting the white chocolate.
- Add the crushed peppermint mints and red food coloring (if using) to the melted chocolate.
- Stir until well combined.
- Pour the mixture onto a lightly greased cookie sheet.
- Spread the mixture as thinly as desired.
- Cool completely and then break into pieces.
- Store in airtight containers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the white chocolate is finely chopped before melting; this helps it melt evenly. If you don't have white chocolate, you can substitute with vegan white chocolate for a dairy-free version. For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of peppermint extract. Ensure the peppermints are crushed finely for better incorporation into the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions
These peppermint candies make a delightful treat on their own, but they also pair beautifully with hot cocoa or coffee for a festive touch. You can use them as a topping for ice cream or as a garnish for holiday desserts. Consider packaging them in decorative bags for gift-giving during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peppermint candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating the candy to prevent it from melting. To enjoy later, simply take out the desired amount and allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peppermint Microwave Candy contains roughly 168 calories, with 3g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate. Just be aware that the flavor profile will change, and you may need to adjust the amount of peppermint to balance the sweetness.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing while melting?
Make sure to use a microwave-safe bowl and avoid overheating the chocolate. Stir it every 30 seconds, and stop as soon as it's mostly melted, allowing residual heat to finish the process. Adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can also help achieve a smoother melt.
Can I make this candy ahead of time?
Absolutely! This peppermint candy can be made several days in advance. Just ensure it's stored properly in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky.
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).