Peppermint Candy Christmas Treats To Sweeten Your Holiday

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with some delicious and easy-to-make Peppermint Candy Christmas treats? The combination of peppermint and chocolate is a classic holiday flavor combination that is sure to please both kids and adults alike. In this article, we'll explore some fun and creative ways to incorporate peppermint candies into your holiday baking and treat-making.

From traditional peppermint bark to creative cookies and candies, we'll provide you with a variety of ideas to sweeten your holiday season. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, these recipes are sure to bring some festive cheer to your holiday celebrations. So, let's get started and dive into the world of Peppermint Candy Christmas treats!

Why Peppermint Candy is a Holiday Favorite

Peppermint candy has been a holiday favorite for decades, and for good reason. The refreshing flavor of peppermint is the perfect complement to the richness of chocolate, making it a match made in heaven. Plus, the bright red and white stripes of peppermint candies add a pop of color to any holiday dessert table.

But peppermint candy is more than just a tasty treat - it's also a nostalgic reminder of holidays past. Who didn't grow up snacking on peppermint candies while decorating the tree or singing carols around the fireplace? The nostalgic appeal of peppermint candy is undeniable, and it's a big part of why it remains a holiday favorite to this day.

Peppermint Bark: A Classic Holiday Treat

One of the simplest and most delicious ways to enjoy peppermint candy is in the form of peppermint bark. This classic holiday treat is made by melting chocolate, sprinkling crushed peppermint candies on top, and letting it set. The result is a deliciously refreshing treat that's perfect for snacking on the go.

To make peppermint bark, you'll need:

• 1 cup of melted chocolate (white, milk, or dark)
• 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies
• 1 tablespoon of shortening (optional)

Simply melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each heating. Stir in the crushed peppermint candies and shortening (if using). Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it set at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Break into pieces and serve.

Variations on Peppermint Bark

While traditional peppermint bark is delicious, you can also experiment with different variations to make it even more interesting. Here are a few ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for a salty-sweet contrast
• Use different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, for a unique flavor profile
• Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture and flavor
• Use peppermint extract or peppermint oil to give the bark an extra boost of peppermint flavor

Peppermint Candy Cookies: A Delicious Holiday Treat

Another delicious way to enjoy peppermint candy is in the form of cookies. These peppermint candy cookies are perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee, and they make a great addition to any holiday dessert table.

To make peppermint candy cookies, you'll need:

• 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons of peppermint extract
• 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies

Simply preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and peppermint extract. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the crushed peppermint candies. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

Variations on Peppermint Candy Cookies

While these peppermint candy cookies are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different variations to make them even more interesting. Here are a few ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top of the cookies before baking for an extra festive touch
• Use different types of peppermint candies, such as peppermint M&M's or chopped peppermint candies, for a unique flavor and texture
• Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture and flavor
• Use peppermint extract or peppermint oil to give the cookies an extra boost of peppermint flavor

Peppermint Candy Fudge: A Delicious Holiday Treat

Another delicious way to enjoy peppermint candy is in the form of fudge. This peppermint candy fudge is perfect for gift-giving or as a sweet treat to enjoy during the holiday season.

To make peppermint candy fudge, you'll need:

• 1 cup of unsalted butter
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of light corn syrup
• 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract
• 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies

Simply line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer. Remove from the heat and stir in the peppermint extract and crushed peppermint candies. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and let it cool to room temperature. Cut into small squares and serve.

Variations on Peppermint Candy Fudge

While this peppermint candy fudge is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to make it even more interesting. Here are a few ideas:

• Add a sprinkle of crushed candy canes on top of the fudge before it cools for an extra festive touch
• Use different types of peppermint candies, such as peppermint M&M's or chopped peppermint candies, for a unique flavor and texture
• Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added texture and flavor
• Use peppermint extract or peppermint oil to give the fudge an extra boost of peppermint flavor

We hope these ideas for Peppermint Candy Christmas treats have inspired you to get creative in the kitchen this holiday season. Whether you're a fan of traditional peppermint bark or want to try something new, there's a peppermint candy treat out there for everyone. So why not give one (or two, or three!) of these recipes a try and see what delicious creations you can come up with?

We'd love to hear from you! What's your favorite Peppermint Candy Christmas treat? Do you have a favorite recipe or tradition that you'd like to share? Let us know in the comments below!