Ingredients
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3 cups powdered sugar
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3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
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3 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
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½ teaspoon peppermint extract
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A few drops red or green food coloring (optional)
You can also add a splash (1 tbsp) of heavy cream only if needed to soften the dough.
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
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In a bowl, beat together:
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softened butter
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softened cream cheese
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peppermint extract
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Slowly add the powdered sugar (about ½ cup at a time).
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Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms — similar to play-dough.
If too stiff → add a teaspoon of cream.
If too sticky → add more powdered sugar.
2. Add Christmas Colors (Optional)
Divide the dough into 2–3 portions:
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leave one white
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add 1–2 drops red food coloring to one portion
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add 1–2 drops green to the other
Knead until the color is smooth and even.
3. Shape the Peppermints
You can shape them two ways:
Method 1: Classic Mints
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Roll dough into small ½-inch balls.
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Press lightly with a fork for the pattern.
Method 2: Candy Stripes
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Roll red, green, and white dough into long thin ropes.
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Press together and slice into little discs for a striped look.
4. Dry the Mints
Spread mints onto parchment paper in a single layer.
Let them air-dry for 12–24 hours, turning halfway through.
This step makes them soft on the inside and firm on the outside
