Soft Peppermint Balls

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why make this recipe

Soft Peppermint Balls are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with the sweetness of condensed milk and powdered sugar. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy the festive spirit or simply want a sweet snack. They are easy to make and do not require baking, making them a great option for both novice cooks and baking enthusiasts alike.

These delightful goodies are ideal for sharing during the winter holidays, as gifts, or even for a cozy night in. Their unique minty flavor sets them apart from typical candies, and they add a pop of festive cheer to any dessert table. Plus, the softness of each ball makes them a unique addition to traditional hard candies or chocolates.

Making Soft Peppermint Balls can be a fun activity to do with your family or friends. You can enjoy the process of mixing, rolling, and taste-testing. It is a simple recipe that encourages creativity; for example, you can choose whether to roll them in cocoa powder, crushed candies, or leave them plain. The possibilities are endless.

how to make Soft Peppermint Balls

Creating these delightful Soft Peppermint Balls is a straightforward process that requires only a few ingredients and minimal preparation. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be ready to enjoy these sweet treats in no time.

Ingredients:

1 cup sweetened condensed milk
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
1/4 cup cocoa powder (for rolling, optional)

Directions:

Prepare your workspace by gathering all ingredients.
Start by making sure you have everything you need in one place. This includes measuring out your sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, peppermint extract, and any other items required for rolling and serving. It helps to have all your tools, like mixing bowls and spoons, ready as well.
In a bowl, mix sweetened condensed milk, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until smooth.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and powdered sugar. Add the peppermint extract to the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are combined, and you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency without lumps.
Gently fold in crushed peppermint candies.
Once your mixture is smooth, gradually fold in the crushed peppermint candies. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain a lovely texture. The crushed candies will add both flavor and a nice crunch to each soft ball.
Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm.
After mixing in the crushed candies, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Letting the mixture chill for about 30 minutes helps it firm up, which makes it easier to roll into balls.
Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
Once the mixture is firm, take small amounts (about one tablespoon) and roll them into balls about one inch in size. Make sure to work quickly so the mixture stays cool while you’re shaping these little treats.
Optionally, roll balls in cocoa powder.
If you like a chocolatey twist to your Soft Peppermint Balls, you can roll them in cocoa powder. This step adds another layer of flavor and a nice contrast to the sweet peppermint. Simply pour cocoa powder into a small bowl, and roll the balls in it until they are evenly coated.
Arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
After rolling the balls (with or without cocoa powder), arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking, and it’s an easy way to contain all your delicious creations as they chill.
Refrigerate for an hour to set.
Once all the balls are on the baking sheet, put them back in the refrigerator for about an hour. This allows them to set properly so they hold their shape when you’re ready to serve or gift them.
Serve and enjoy, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
After chilling, your Soft Peppermint Balls are ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them immediately to family or friends or store them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for several days, and their flavor may even deepen over time as they chill.

how to serve Soft Peppermint Balls

Soft Peppermint Balls can be served in various ways. They make a lovely addition to any holiday dessert platter or candy table. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

On a festive plate: Arrange the balls on a decorative plate, especially during the holiday season. You can use colorful linens or themed napkins to enhance the presentation.
As a gift: These little treats are perfect for sharing. Package them in a clear cellophane bag or a decorative tin, tied with a pretty ribbon, and give them as gifts to friends, family, or colleagues.
Alongside hot drinks: Serve them with hot cocoa, coffee, or tea. The minty flavor of Soft Peppermint Balls pairs wonderfully with warm beverages, offering a refreshing contrast.
As party favors: If you are hosting a holiday party, consider putting a few soft peppermint balls in small gift bags for guests to take home.

Whatever way you choose to serve them, Soft Peppermint Balls are sure to be a hit.

how to store Soft Peppermint Balls

To keep your Soft Peppermint Balls fresh, proper storage is essential. Here are some tips for storing them:

Use an airtight container: After they have set, place the peppermint balls in an airtight container to maintain their softness and flavor. Glass jars, plastic containers, or even ziplock bags work well.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator, where the balls will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The cool environment helps to preserve their texture.
Avoid moisture: Ensure that the container is well-sealed to prevent moisture from getting in, as this can make the balls sticky or cause them to lose their nice texture.
Keep away from strong odors: Store the balls away from foods with strong odors, as they can absorb these smells and affect the taste.

Following these storage tips will keep your Soft Peppermint Balls delicious and enjoyable for longer.

tips to make Soft Peppermint Balls

Making Soft Peppermint Balls is a fun and simple process. Here are some tips to enhance your experience and achieve the perfect treat:

Use fresh ingredients: Make sure to use fresh peppermint extract and properly crushed candies for the best flavor. Stale ingredients can lead to muted flavors in your final product.
Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet treat, reduce the amount of powdered sugar slightly. You can start with 1 ½ cups instead of 2 cups and taste the mixture before adding more.
Choose your coatings wisely: Experiment with different coatings. Instead of cocoa powder, you can roll the balls in crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or even contrasting flavors like cinnamon sugar for a different taste experience.
Chill properly: Ensure that you chill the mixture long enough before rolling it into balls. If the mixture is too warm, it can become challenging to shape.
Get creative with shapes: While the recipe specifies balls, you can also use cookie cutters to shape the mixture into festive shapes for holidays. Stars, hearts, or other seasonal shapes can make for an even cuter treat.

By following these tips, you can customize your Soft Peppermint Balls to suit your tastes and make the process of creating them even more enjoyable.

variation

While the basic Soft Peppermint Balls are delicious on their own, you can enjoy different variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

Chocolate-Dipped Peppermint Balls: After rolling the balls, you can dip them in melted chocolate for a rich taste. Once dipped, let them set on parchment paper until the chocolate hardens. This adds a lovely chocolate coating that complements the mint flavor.
Nut-Free Version: To make this recipe nut-free, simply roll your balls in crushed graham crackers, crushed cookies, or more crushed candies instead of nuts.
Vegan Version: For a vegan alternative, you could substitute coconut cream for sweetened condensed milk. You may need to adjust other ingredients accordingly, like using powdered sugar made from cane sugar, which is typically vegan-friendly.
Spiced Version: For those who enjoy a spiced flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for a warm twist.
Alternate Flavors: Instead of peppermint, you can experiment with other extracts like almond or vanilla for a completely different flavor profile.

Feel free to get creative with these variations! The base recipe is adaptable, allowing for personal touches that enhance your enjoyment of Soft Peppermint Balls.

FAQs

1. How long do Soft Peppermint Balls last?

Soft Peppermint Balls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They may last longer, but for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within that time frame.

2. Can I freeze Soft Peppermint Balls?

Yes, you can freeze Soft Peppermint Balls! To do this, place them in a freezer-safe container, making sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for about 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight.

3. What can I use if I don’t have peppermint extract?

If you don’t have peppermint extract, you can use other mint extracts or even mint-flavored liqueurs. Just ensure that the flavor is suitable for your taste preferences. In a pinch, you can also use a small amount of mint tea or crushed fresh mint, but it may alter the texture and moisture of the mixture.

4. How can I make these Soft Peppermint Balls less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness of the Soft Peppermint Balls, try using less powdered sugar. Start with one and a half cups of powdered sugar and mix until you reach the desired level of sweetness. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a bit of cocoa powder if you choose to roll them in it.

5. Can I add more crushed candy canes for extra texture?

Absolutely! If you love the crunch and flavor of peppermint, feel free to add extra crushed candy canes to the mix. Just remember to adjust the amount of powdered sugar slightly to maintain the right consistency for rolling.

Enjoy making and sharing your Soft Peppermint Balls! Whether you decide to keep them for yourself or gift them to others, these sweet treats are sure to spread joy.