Pulled Mints
Sweet and minty pulled candies with a crunchy texture, perfect for those who enjoy refreshing flavors and homemade treats. Ideal for gifting or enjoying as a nostalgic candy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil sugar, water, and butter to a hard ball stage.
- Add peppermint flavoring.
- Turn onto a wet platter and cool.
- Pull until brittle and then cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Place in a dish of powdered sugar.
- Leave until mints become creamy.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a candy thermometer to ensure you reach the hard ball stage, which is between 250°F and 266°F. If you want a stronger mint flavor, you can increase the peppermint flavoring slightly or add a few drops of peppermint extract. Consider using food-safe gloves while pulling the candy to avoid burns. This recipe is similar in texture to the treats found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These pulled mints make a delightful after-dinner treat or a sweet addition to holiday gatherings. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. If you're serving them at a party, consider placing them in decorative bowls alongside other confections such as Elizabeth's Sugar Cookies for a festive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pulled mints in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. If you live in a humid environment, you may want to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Do not refrigerate, as this can cause the mints to become too hard. Enjoy them within a few weeks for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pulled Mints contains roughly 352 calories, with 2g protein, 88g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 a different flavoring instead of peppermint?
Yes, you can substitute peppermint flavoring with other extracts like spearmint or even vanilla for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the sweetness may vary based on the flavor you choose, so taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
What if my pulled mints are too soft?
If your mints are too soft, it likely means they didn't reach the hard ball stage. You can reheat the mixture gently and let it boil again until it reaches the correct temperature. Be cautious not to overcook, as this can lead to a brittle texture.
How long do the mints take to cool before pulling?
Typically, the mints will need about 15-20 minutes to cool down enough for you to handle them. Ensure they are cool but still pliable enough to pull. If they firm up too much, you might need to briefly warm them again to make them workable.
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).