There’s something timeless about the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth texture of Easy old-fashioned butter mints. These little confections are a nostalgic treat, reminiscent of family gatherings, holiday parties, and grandma’s candy dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this classic sweet at home, and trust me, they’re as delightful as you remember.
I first encountered these mints at a bridal shower years ago. They were served in a pretty glass bowl, and their pastel colors caught my eye. One bite, and I was hooked—creamy, buttery, and just the right amount of sweetness. I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Just butter, powdered sugar, and a touch of mint flavoring come together to create something truly special.
Whether you’re making these for a party, a gift, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are sure to bring a smile to your face. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this sweet, nostalgic treat.
These Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are a sweet, melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with just butter, powdered sugar, and mint flavoring, they’re simple to make and impossible to resist.
The recipe is quick and straightforward, requiring no special equipment or skills. With minimal effort, you can create a batch of mints that look and taste like they came from a vintage candy shop.
What sets these mints apart is their nostalgic charm. They’re a classic treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and special celebrations. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser—kids and adults alike can’t get enough of them.
If you’re looking for a sweet, easy-to-make treat, this is it. These Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are a must-try.
Exciting Story:
I’ll never forget the first time I made these butter mints. It was for my best friend’s baby shower, and I wanted to add a personal touch to the dessert table. I remembered the mints from that bridal shower years ago and decided to give them a try.
As I mixed the ingredients, the kitchen filled with the sweet, buttery aroma of the mints. I rolled them into tiny balls and dusted them with powdered sugar, just like I’d seen in old recipe books. When I brought them to the shower, they were an instant hit.
The guests couldn’t stop raving about how creamy and delicious they were. My friend even asked me to make them for her next party. Since then, these mints have become my go-to treat for special occasions.
Why These Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Selling Points:
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Creamy, buttery, and utterly irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just butter, powdered sugar, and mint flavoring.
- Quick and Easy: No cooking or special equipment required.
- Nostalgic Charm: A classic treat that brings back fond memories.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package them in pretty boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
What You Need For Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
- 1-2 tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (as needed)
- Food coloring (optional, for pastel colors)
How to Make Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add the peppermint extract and a tablespoon of heavy cream or milk. Mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add more cream or milk, one teaspoon at a time.
- Add Color (Optional): Divide the dough into portions and add a drop or two of food coloring to each. Knead until the color is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mints: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each). Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Flatten and Dust: Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Set and Serve: Let the mints sit at room temperature for about an hour to firm up. Store in an airtight container.
Tips For Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
- Softened Butter: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust Mint Flavor: Start with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and add more to taste.
- Food Coloring: Use gel food coloring for vibrant pastel shades.
- Storage: Keep the mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Substitutions and Variations
- Different Flavors: Swap peppermint extract for vanilla, almond, or lemon extract.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and plant-based cream or milk.
- Chocolate Mints: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Holiday Colors: Use red and green food coloring for Christmas or pastels for Easter.
Make a Healthier Version
- Use a sugar substitute like powdered erythritol instead of powdered sugar.
- Substitute heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative like almond milk.
Closing in Todd Wilbur Style:
And there you have it! These Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are a sweet, nostalgic treat that’s sure to delight. Don’t forget to let us know how your mints turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more delicious inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints:
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce or omit any additional salt in the recipe.
Can I make these without peppermint extract?
Yes, use vanilla or another flavoring of your choice.
How long do these mints last?
They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Can I freeze these mints?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
What if my dough is too sticky?
Add a little more powdered sugar until the dough is workable.
Can I use a cookie press to shape the mints?
Yes, a cookie press can create fun shapes for the mints.
Can I make these vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter and plant-based cream or milk.
What’s the best way to color the mints?
Use gel food coloring for vibrant, even colors.
Can I add sprinkles?
Yes, roll the mints in sprinkles before they set for a festive touch.
Can I make these sugar-free?
Yes, use a powdered sugar substitute like erythritol.
What’s the best way to package these as gifts?
Use small cellophane bags or decorative tins for a thoughtful presentation.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, these mints can be made up to 2 weeks in advance.
Easy Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Course: All Recipes, Christmas, Dessert, Snacks, Weight watchers4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1-2 tsp peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
1-2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (as needed)
Food coloring (optional, for pastel colors)
Directions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add the peppermint extract and a tablespoon of heavy cream or milk. Mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add more cream or milk, one teaspoon at a time.
- Add Color (Optional): Divide the dough into portions and add a drop or two of food coloring to each. Knead until the color is evenly distributed.
- Shape the Mints: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 teaspoon each). Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
- Flatten and Dust: Use a fork to gently flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern. Dust lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
- Set and Serve: Let the mints sit at room temperature for about an hour to firm up. Store in an airtight container.