INSTRUCTIONS:
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
3.1 Gathering Ingredients and Tools
Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A mixing bowl and spatula
- Wax paper or parchment paper
Having everything prepared in advance will make the process smoother and more efficient.
3.2 Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Start by creaming the butter and powdered sugar together. This is one of the most important steps, as it ensures the butter mints have a smooth, soft texture. Beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy.
3.3 Adding Peppermint Extract and Cream
Once the butter and sugar are creamed together, add the peppermint extract. Be cautious with this step, as peppermint extract is very potent. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference. Gradually mix in the cream to create a smooth dough.
3.4 Shaping and Drying the Mints
After the dough has been prepared, roll it into small ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Place the pieces on wax paper and let them air-dry for several hours or overnight. Proper drying ensures the mints are firm but still soft to eat.
- Drying: Let the mints air-dry at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight. This helps them firm up while keeping the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Storing: Once dried, store the butter mints in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks at room temperature or can be frozen for longer storage.
The secret to perfecting Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) lies in the balance of butter and peppermint extract.
4. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even the most experienced candy makers can run into issues when making butter mints. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls.
One of the common mistakes when making Soft Christmas Peppermints (Old-Fashioned Butter Mints) is overdoing the peppermint extract.
4.1 Too Much Peppermint Flavor
Peppermint extract is strong, and using too much can overpower the mints. If you accidentally add too much, try to dilute the flavor by adding more butter and powdered sugar to the mixture. Always taste the dough before shaping the mints to ensure the flavor is balanced.
4.2 Overly Sticky or Too Hard Butter Mints
The consistency of the dough is key. If it’s too sticky, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. On the other hand, if the dough is too dry and crumbly, add a splash of cream to bring it back together. Achieving the right balance is crucial for perfect butter mints.
4.3 Incorrect Color Mixing
Adding food coloring requires a gentle touch. Knead the color into the dough slowly to avoid streaks. If the dough becomes sticky from overworking, you can add a little more powdered sugar to fix the texture.
4.4 Storage Problems Leading to Staleness
Butter mints are sensitive to air exposure, which can cause them to become stale. Always store them in an airtight container. If you’re planning to keep them for longer than two weeks, freezing is a great option to preserve their freshness.
