Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

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Soft, pastel-colored and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are the ultimate nostalgic treat. Whether you remember them from grandma’s candy dish or weddings from decades ago, these buttery bites bring sweetness with a creamy finish that’s impossible to resist. They’re elegant enough for baby showers and tea parties, yet simple enough to whip up for a cozy night in.

These mints aren’t just candy—they’re a moment frozen in time. With only a handful of pantry staples, you can create a batch of homemade butter mints that outshine anything store-bought. Customize the colors to suit your theme or season, and get ready to make something that’s both beautiful and crave-worthy.

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What Kind of Butter Should I Use?

For the richest flavor, always use unsalted butter. It allows you to control the sweetness and salt level more precisely. Room-temperature butter is essential here for easy mixing and a smooth, creamy texture.

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Ingredients for the Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

• Unsalted Butter: The star of the show. It gives these mints their rich, creamy base.
• Powdered Sugar: Helps achieve that classic melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
• Heavy Cream: Adds just enough moisture to create a pliable dough.
• Peppermint Extract: Brings that cool, refreshing flavor to balance the sweetness.
• Salt: A tiny pinch enhances all the other flavors.
• Food Coloring (optional): For that soft pastel touch—perfect for customizing by occasion.

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How To Make the Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Start by beating the unsalted butter in a medium bowl until smooth and fluffy. This step ensures the base is creamy and easy to work with.

Step 2: Add Flavor and Cream

Mix in the peppermint extract, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Blend until everything is smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Incorporate the Powdered Sugar

Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing a bit at a time. The mixture will transform into a dough-like consistency that is soft but not sticky.

Step 4: Color the Dough (Optional)

If you’re adding food coloring, divide the dough into portions and knead in a few drops of desired colors until evenly tinted.

Step 5: Shape the Mints

Roll the dough into small balls or logs. Cut into bite-sized pieces using a knife or bench scraper. Keep the size consistent for even drying.

Step 6: Dry and Store

Place the mints on a parchment-lined tray and let them air-dry for 12 to 24 hours until firm to the touch. Then store in an airtight container.

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How to Serve and Store Butter Mints

These butter mints are perfect for serving at weddings, showers, brunch tables, or holiday gatherings. For an everyday treat, keep a stash in your freezer for whenever that sweet craving hits. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator or freezer for longer freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the salt levels yourself, but if salted butter is all you have, reduce or omit the added salt.

How long do homemade butter mints last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, they last 2 weeks at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I freeze butter mints?

Yes! Freeze in a single layer first, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container to prevent sticking.

Can I use other extracts instead of peppermint?

Absolutely. Try vanilla, lemon, almond, or even maple for different flavor variations.

Why are my mints too sticky?

This could be due to overmixing or high humidity. Add a little more powdered sugar to help firm the dough.

Do I have to use food coloring?

Not at all. The mints are just as delicious in their natural creamy-white color, but colors do add a festive touch.

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Want More Candy Ideas?

If you love these Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, you’ll probably enjoy these other sweet classics:

• Winter Brittle for a crunchy seasonal favorite.
• Caramel Cheesecake Cookies that bring together the best of both worlds.
• Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie for a creamy, festive dessert.
• Condensed Milk Snow Cookies with a sweet, chewy bite.
• Lemon Raspberry Swirl Cheesecake Cups that burst with fruity freshness.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with classic peppermint, or switch it up with something fruity or floral? Did you color them for a special event?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

For more delicious inspirations like this, follow along on my Pinterest board where I share my daily kitchen creations!

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