Name: Butter Mints
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 12 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract; 3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed); 4 cups powdered sugar; Optional: natural food coloring

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Smooth, creamy, and delicately pepperminty, these Butter Mints are an old-fashioned candy that instantly brings back sweet memories. Made with just a handful of ingredients—real butter, powdered sugar, cream, and peppermint—they’re an easy no-bake treat that’s perfect for holidays, weddings, or simply satisfying a sugar craving. With a soft texture that melts in my mouth, these little mints are both elegant and nostalgic.

Butter Mints

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed)

4 cups powdered sugar

Optional: natural food coloring

Directions

I start by beating the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until it’s creamy.

Then I mix in the sea salt and peppermint extract until everything is well incorporated.

Gradually, I beat in the powdered sugar one cup at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed.

I add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes soft and pliable.

If I’m using food coloring, I divide the dough and knead in the colors I want.

On a powdered sugar-dusted surface, I roll small portions of dough into ½-inch thick ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

I place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and let them air dry, uncovered, for 12 hours or overnight.

Once firm, I store them in an airtight container.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Drying Time: 12 hours

Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes

Servings: About 100 mints

Calories per mint: 45 kcal

Variations

I like to switch up the flavor by using different extracts—like vanilla, lemon, or almond. For festive looks, I sometimes swirl in pastel colors or roll the mints in sparkling sugar before drying. During the holidays, I’ll shape them into mini wreaths or hearts for Valentine’s Day. These are easy to customize depending on the occasion.

Storage/Reheating

I keep the mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, I freeze them in layers separated by parchment paper. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I let them thaw at room temperature—no reheating needed since they’re no-bake.

FAQs

How long do Butter Mints need to dry?

I let them air-dry uncovered for at least 12 hours or overnight. This helps them firm up and get that perfect melt-in-my-mouth texture.

Can I freeze Butter Mints?

Yes, I freeze them in an airtight container layered with parchment paper. They keep well for a couple of months. I just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I use a different extract besides peppermint?

Absolutely. I sometimes use almond, vanilla, or even lemon extract for a different twist on the classic flavor.

Why is my dough too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky, I add a bit more powdered sugar until it holds its shape and is easy to roll. The key is to add the cream gradually.

Are these safe to make ahead of time for events?

Yes, I often make these a week or two in advance. They store really well, and the flavor even improves a little as they sit.

Conclusion

These homemade Butter Mints are a charming, nostalgic treat that’s incredibly easy to make. I love how they combine a rich buttery base with a clean peppermint finish, and I can adapt the color and flavor to suit any occasion. Whether I’m gifting them, serving them at a party, or just indulging in a little sweet treat, they always deliver that perfect, melt-in-my-mouth bite.

Recipe:

Butter Mints

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 12 hours 20 minutes
Yield: About 100 mints
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Smooth, creamy, and delicately pepperminty, these old-fashioned Butter Mints are a nostalgic, no-bake treat perfect for holidays, weddings, or everyday indulgence.

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

¼ teaspoon peppermint extract

3 to 4 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed)

4 cups powdered sugar

Optional: natural food coloring

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Instructions

Beat the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until creamy.
Mix in the sea salt and peppermint extract until well combined.
Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes soft and pliable.
If using food coloring, divide the dough and knead in desired colors.
On a powdered sugar-dusted surface, roll small portions of dough into ½-inch thick ropes and cut into bite-sized pieces.
Place mints on a parchment-lined tray and let air dry, uncovered, for 12 hours or overnight.
Once firm, store in an airtight container.