Save This classic peppermint confection features a crisp texture and refreshing coolness from pure peppermint extract. Made by boiling a sugar base to 260°F, then shaped into twisted red and white stripes, these sweets harden while cooling and are dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. The candy offers a sweet, cooling bite and can be customized by intensifying the peppermint flavor or changing the look of the swirl. Ideal for gifting or enjoying after a meal, the process requires basic tools like a saucepan and a candy thermometer to ensure perfect texture and flavor.
Discovering how to make peppermint candies at home felt like unwrapping a sweet childhood memory—it was crisp, refreshing, and surprisingly easy to master with just a few ingredients.
I remember the first time unexpected guests stopped by and I pulled out these peppermint candies still cooling on the counter—it instantly turned into a cozy, sweet moment.
Ingredients
- Granulated sugar: I reach for the pure white variety for the best crisp texture and clarity.
- Water: Just enough to dissolve the sugar without diluting the flavor.
- Light corn syrup: Helps keep the candies smooth and prevents crystallization.
- Cream of tartar: A pinch adds perfect chewiness without hardness.
- Pure peppermint extract: Adds that refreshing coolness essential to the candy's charm.
- Red gel food coloring: Optional but makes the classic swirl pop for gifting.
- Powdered sugar: Perfect for dusting to prevent stickiness after cooling.
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Line your baking sheet with parchment paper and dust it lightly with powdered sugar to keep your candies from sticking—this step sets you up for smooth sailing.
- Heat the Sugar Mixture:
- Combine sugar, water, corn syrup, and cream of tartar in a saucepan. Stir till sugar dissolves, then let it bubble up to 260°F—it smells sweet and starts to glisten like glass.
- Add Peppermint:
- Remove from heat and wait briefly for all bubbles to calm before stirring in peppermint extract—the aroma fills the kitchen with cool freshness.
- Color and Pour:
- Divide syrup into bowls if coloring, tint one with red, leaving the other clear. Quickly pour alternating stripes onto your baking sheet—the liquid pool shines like a jewel.
- Shape the Candy:
- Use an oiled knife or scraper to form logs, then twist the ropes together for that iconic peppermint look. Cut into pieces while still soft—this part feels like crafting sweet little gifts.
- Cool and Store:
- Allow candies to harden fully at room temperature, then dust with powdered sugar. They're ready to be enjoyed or wrapped up for sharing.
Save This recipe has become my go-to comfort whenever the holidays roll around—each candy piece carries a little festive cheer and warmth beyond just sweetness.
Keeping It Fresh
Storing your candies in an airtight container in a cool, dry spot keeps them crisp for up to two weeks—perfect for pacing out your treats without losing that satisfying snap.
When You're Missing Something
If you run low on peppermint extract, a touch of vanilla can add a subtle twist, though nothing beats the original cool peppermint punch for that classic feel.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
These candies make delightful accents on holiday dessert platters or tucked into gift bags for friends and family.
- Dust remaining powdered sugar over them before serving to keep stickiness at bay
- Try including tiny personalized tags when gifting for that extra thoughtful touch
- Remember to share them quickly—once word gets out, they tend to disappear fast!
Save Thanks for joining me in the kitchen today—here's to many sweet moments ahead with these classic peppermint candies.
Recipe FAQ
- → What is the key temperature for cooking the sugar base?
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The sugar mixture should be cooked to 260°F (127°C) for the perfect crisp texture.
- → Can food coloring be added to the peppermint sweets?
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Yes, red gel food coloring is optional and used to create the traditional striped effect.
- → How should the peppermint flavor be incorporated?
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Pure peppermint extract is stirred in after removing the syrup from heat and letting bubbles subside.
- → What is the purpose of dusting with powdered sugar?
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Powdered sugar prevents the candies from sticking together once cooled and hardened.
- → How can the peppermint sweets be stored?
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks.
