Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Sweet, creamy, and nostalgic—these Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are the perfect bite-sized treat for any celebration. Whether you’re looking for a quick holiday candy, easy party favor, or vintage dessert idea, these mints check all the boxes. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and just a kiss of peppermint, they evoke fond memories of family gatherings and dessert tables. No baking is required, and with minimal ingredients and customizable colors, they are ideal for anyone seeking a delightful dessert or easy recipe to impress guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and no baking involved, you can whip up these mints in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: The subtle peppermint flavor makes them perfect for various occasions—from holidays to weddings.
• Customizable Colors: You can tailor the mints’ colors to match any event theme using gel food coloring.
• Great for Gifting: These mints make charming edible gifts or party favors that guests will adore.
• Large Batch Size: This recipe yields about 100 mints, making it ideal for gatherings or celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delightful candies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Scraper or knife
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients effectively without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve the smooth, creamy texture that is crucial for the mints.
• Parchment paper: Lining your drying surface with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

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Ingredients

For these delightful Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Mints

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 pinch salt
• gel food coloring (optional)

How to Make Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Begin by beating the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until it is smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture in your mints.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Next, add the peppermint extract, salt, and heavy cream (or milk) to the bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Powdered Sugar

Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until a soft dough forms. This may take some time; ensure each addition is fully blended before adding more sugar.

Step 4: Color Your Dough (Optional)

If you wish to add color to your mints, divide the dough into portions and knead in gel food coloring until you achieve your desired shades.

Step 5: Roll into Ropes

On a surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll the dough into thin ropes. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cutting later on.

Step 6: Cut into Pieces

Using a scraper or knife, cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces. You can adjust size according to preference; just keep them consistent for uniform drying.

Step 7: Drying Time

Finally, spread your mints on parchment paper. Allow them to dry at room temperature for about 8 hours or overnight. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly firm texture!

With these steps complete, you’ll have a delightful batch of Old-Fashioned Butter Mints ready to share (or keep all to yourself)! Enjoy!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a festive gathering or an everyday treat, these mints add a sweet touch to any occasion.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual mints in clear cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons for charming party favors.

On Dessert Tables

• Arrange mints on a decorative platter alongside other sweets to create an inviting dessert display.

In Gift Baskets

• Include mints in homemade gift baskets for friends or family, adding a personal touch to your presents.

With Afternoon Tea

• Serve these mints with tea or coffee as a refreshing after-meal treat that pairs wonderfully with warm beverages.

For Special Occasions

• Use colored gel food coloring to match the mints to party themes or holidays, making them perfect for weddings or birthdays.

How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Creating the ideal Old-Fashioned Butter Mints is all about attention to detail. Follow these helpful tips to elevate your mint-making experience.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing and a creamy texture.
• Gradually add powdered sugar: This helps achieve the right consistency without creating a powdered sugar cloud.
• Knead colors thoroughly: If using gel food coloring, knead it well into the dough for even color distribution.
• Allow time to dry: Let the mints sit at room temperature for at least 8 hours so they harden properly.
• Store correctly: Keep mints in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Pairing side dishes with Old-Fashioned Butter Mints can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options that complement the sweet flavors of the mints.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance the sweetness of the mints.
2. Cheese Platter: Assorted cheeses provide a savory contrast that works well with the creamy mints.
3. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels covered in chocolate adds an exciting texture alongside the smooth mints.
4. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream serves as a creamy base that pairs beautifully with the peppermint flavor.
5. Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake makes for a delightful duo with the sweet, minty treats.
6. Nut Mix: A variety of nuts offers a crunchy element that complements the soft texture of the butter mints.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly skip measuring ingredients – Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Always use a measuring cup for liquids and dry ingredients.
• Boldly rush the mixing process – Properly mixing the butter and sugar is key to a smooth dough. Take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
• Boldly ignore resting time – Allowing the mints to dry at room temperature is essential for their texture. Don’t skip this step; it enhances flavor and consistency.
• Boldly forget about color mixing – If using gel food coloring, be sure to knead it thoroughly into the dough. This ensures even color distribution throughout your mints.
• Boldly cut uneven pieces – For a professional look, use a sharp knife or scraper to cut uniform sizes. This not only looks good but also ensures even drying.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Old-Fashioned Butter Mints in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator without losing their quality.

Freezing Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

• Place mints in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

• Oven – Preheat to 200°F (93°C) for quick warming without melting.
• Microwave – Heat for 5-10 seconds on low power, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Use a double boiler method, gently warming over simmering water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Old-Fashioned Butter Mints.

Can I customize flavors in Old-Fashioned Butter Mints?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond for unique flavors.

What is the best way to store Old-Fashioned Butter Mints?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

How long do Old-Fashioned Butter Mints last?

They typically last up to two weeks in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer if stored properly.

Can I use natural food coloring instead of gel?

Yes, natural food colors can be used, but they may yield softer shades compared to gel food coloring.

Final Thoughts

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are not only delightful treats but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their creamy texture and customizable colors make them perfect for gifting or celebrating special moments. Try this recipe today and enjoy creating your unique batch!