Butter mints remind me of holiday tables and special occasions when there was always a little dish of pastel-colored mints waiting to be enjoyed after dinner. They’re sweet, creamy, and melt-in-your-mouth smooth, with just the right touch of peppermint to refresh your palate. Over the years, I’ve started making them from scratch, and they’ve quickly become a staple for my family gatherings, parties, and as simple homemade gifts.
The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients, and you can color or flavor them any way you’d like. Once you try making these at home, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Why This Recipe Works
These homemade butter mints come together quickly and have the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Here’s why I love them:
- Only five simple ingredients: Pantry staples that come together in minutes.
- No baking required: Just mix, shape, and let them dry.
- Creamy and smooth: They melt in your mouth just like classic butter mints should.
- Customizable: You can adjust the mint flavor and color to fit any occasion.
- Perfect for parties, weddings, or homemade gifts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes about 100 small mints | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Drying Time: 24 hours)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or to taste)
- Food coloring (optional)
How I Make Homemade Butter Mints (Step-by-Step)
1. Cream the Butter
I start by beating the softened butter with the salt in a large mixing bowl until it’s light and smooth.
2. Add the Peppermint and Cream
Next, I stir in the peppermint extract and heavy cream, blending until everything is well combined and silky.
3. Add the Powdered Sugar
I gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until the dough becomes thick and slightly stiff. It should be soft but firm enough to handle without sticking.
4. Add Color (Optional)
If I’m adding color, I divide the dough and knead in a few drops of food coloring until evenly distributed. Pastel shades are my favorite for holidays and parties.
5. Shape the Mints
I roll small portions of the dough into long ropes, about 1/2-inch thick, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. For a more decorative look, you can also roll them into small balls and flatten them slightly with a fork.
6. Dry the Mints
I spread the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them dry at room temperature for 24 hours, turning once if needed to dry both sides.
7. Store and Serve
Once dry, I transfer them to an airtight container. They keep beautifully for weeks, making them perfect for advance prep.
My Favorite Tips for Perfect Butter Mints
- Use good-quality peppermint extract: It makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Add coloring slowly: A little goes a long way — soft, light colors look best.
- Don’t skip sifting the powdered sugar: It keeps the mixture smooth and lump-free.
- Let them dry completely: Patience here ensures that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Moisture can cause them to become sticky.
How I Serve These Mints
These mints are wonderful on their own, but I also love to:
- Set out bowls at holiday gatherings or weddings
- Wrap them in small gift bags for party favors
- Add them to dessert platters with cookies and chocolates
- Use pastel colors for baby showers or Easter tables
- Include them as a finishing touch after a big holiday meal
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Q: Can I use other flavors besides peppermint?
A: Absolutely! Try vanilla, lemon, almond, or even orange extract for a fun twist.
Q: How long do they last?
A: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 weeks. They also freeze well if you want to keep them longer.
Q: Can I make them dairy-free?
A: You can use dairy-free butter and a splash of almond milk instead of cream, though the texture may be slightly softer.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time for events?
A: Yes! I often make them a week or two in advance and store them in airtight containers.
Why These Butter Mints Deserve a Spot in Your Recipe Box
These butter mints are sweet, creamy, and full of refreshing flavor — perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, customizable, and nostalgic in the best way. Whether you’re setting out a candy dish for guests, adding a special touch to a party, or simply looking for a melt-in-your-mouth treat, this recipe is one that you’ll return to again and again.
I hope you give these a try — they’re as simple as they are delicious, and they never fail to bring a smile.
The Soft, Buttery Mints I Always Make for Holidays and Special Gatherings
Ingredients
- 2 cups unsalted butter
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or to taste)
- 6 cups powdered sugar
- Food coloring (optional)
- Cornstarch (for dusting)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter until smooth.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined and smooth.
- Add the salt and peppermint extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- If desired, divide the mixture into portions and add food coloring to create pastel shades.
- Dust your hands and working surface with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Shape the mixture into small balls or use a mold to create shapes.
- Place the mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them set for at least 30 minutes.
- Store the mints in an airtight container at room temperature.
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