Name: Delightful Old-Fashioned Butter Mints: A Sweet Nostalgia Hit
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 495 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (At room temperature); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Do not use granulated sugar); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream or Milk (Any kind of milk works); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Adjust based on your preference); 1 pinch Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 drop Gel Food Coloring (Use sparingly for pastel shades)

As I mixed the ingredients for my Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, the nostalgic aroma of peppermint instantly took me back to my childhood. These delightful, melt-in-your-mouth treats are not only a delicious way to satisfy a sweet tooth but also an exciting no-bake project that can transform any gathering into a charming celebration. With their pastel hues, these buttery confections are versatile enough for any occasion—think holiday platters, weddings, or even cozy family gatherings. Plus, you can easily customize the flavors and colors to match your theme, making them a perfect activity for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. What unique twist will you add to your batch?

Why are Old-Fashioned Butter Mints special?

Nostalgic Treat: These delightful candies transport you back in time, evoking memories of family gatherings and celebrations.
No-Bake Simplicity: With minimal effort and no baking required, you’re just minutes away from homemade goodness.
Customizable Flavors: Personalize your mints by experimenting with different extracts or colors, making each batch uniquely yours.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for weddings, holidays, or simply a sweet treat, they bring charm and sweetness to every gathering.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and refreshing peppermint flavor are sure to impress friends and family.
Easy to Store: These mints last well, so you can prepare them in advance for hassle-free entertaining—think of them as a retro option alongside Cookie Butter Icebox or Sage Honey Butter!

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create sweet, creamy morsels that will delight all.

For the Dough

Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich and creamy flavor; be sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Powdered Sugar – Ensures a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture; absolutely do not use granulated sugar for this recipe.
Heavy Cream or Milk – Adds a touch of moisture and richness; any kind of milk works great here.
Peppermint Extract – The signature flavor of Old-Fashioned Butter Mints; adjust based on your preference for mintiness.
Pinch of Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

For Color (optional)

Gel Food Coloring – A fun way to create pastel shades; use it sparingly to maintain the perfect texture of the mints.

These simple ingredients meld into a delicious nostalgic treat that can be customized for any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Step 1: Prep the Dough
Begin by placing your room-temperature unsalted butter into a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to beat the butter until it becomes smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the peppermint extract, a pinch of salt, and your choice of heavy cream or milk. Mix them all together until fully incorporated, which will take another minute.

Step 2: Incorporate Sugar
Gradually sift in the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to prevent a sugary cloud! Continue to mix until the ingredients come together into a soft, pliable dough. This process may take about 3-4 minutes and should yield a malleable dough that holds its shape. Adjust the mixer speed to low to avoid creating a mess.

Step 3: Add Color (optional)
If you’d like to add a touch of pastel color to your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, divide your dough into equal portions based on the colors you want to use. Using gel food coloring, knead in a small amount at a time until you achieve your desired hue. Ensure the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough, which may take about 3-5 minutes of kneading.

Step 4: Shape Mints
Dust your clean work surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Take portions of the dough and roll them into ropes approximately 1/2 inch thick. Using a sharp knife, cut the ropes into bite-sized pieces—aim for squares or rectangles that are about 1 inch long. Make sure each piece is uniform for even drying.

Step 5: Dry
Place the shaped mints in a single layer on parchment paper lined on a baking sheet or plate. Leave them to air dry at room temperature for at least 8 hours or overnight. This drying time is crucial for achieving the proper texture—your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints should be firm yet melt-in-your-mouth delicious by the end of this process.

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Variations

Feel free to make these delightful mints your own with a few fun twists and substitutions!

Flavor Twists: Experiment with different extracts like vanilla, almond, or lemon to give your mints a unique flair. Each extract brings its own character, allowing for endless possibilities.
Color Customization: Use various shades of gel food coloring to match specific themes, holidays, or events. A pastel palette can brighten any gathering, making them visually appealing as well as delicious.
Cocoa Butter Mints: For a chocolatey twist, add unsweetened cocoa powder to the dough. It’ll create a delightful chocolate-mint flavor that’s perfect for those who love the combination.
Textured Treats: Incorporate finely chopped nuts or crushed peppermint candies. This adds not only a crunchy texture but also a celebratory touch, perfect for special occasions.
Minty Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a surprising kick. The warmth from these spices contrasts beautifully with the cool mint, creating a truly unique experience.
Different Shapes: Try using candy molds or your hands to create fun shapes. From hearts to holiday-themed designs, shaping the mints differently can make them even more inviting at parties.
Layered Mints: Create a layered effect by mixing colors in a single batch, rolling different colored doughs together. This can add a more visually appealing aesthetic, enhancing the nostalgic factor.
Butter Alternatives: For a dairy-free option, swap the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use coconut cream for a decadent twist. The creamy texture will still come through beautifully while catering to dietary preferences.

These variations are just a starting point! You can create something truly special that reflects your taste—like serving alongside Old Fashioned Amish delights or pairing with sweet Garlic Butter Chicken for an unforgettable feast. Enjoy getting creative!

How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Room Temperature: Store your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them fresh and melts in your mouth.

Refrigerator: If you prefer, refrigerate the mints for up to 1 month. Ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent moisture and odors from affecting their delightful flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the mints in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw completely at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Serving Tips: Always allow the mints to come to room temperature after chilling or freezing for a softer, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints

Butter Temperature: Ensure butter is at room temperature for optimal mixing and a creamy texture; cold butter can lead to lumpy dough.
Gradual Sugar Addition: Mix in powdered sugar gradually on low speed to prevent dust clouds and ensure a smooth blend; rushing this step may create a mess.
Drying Time is Key: Allow at least 8 hours for drying at room temperature—rushing this will result in a chewy texture rather than the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Clean Tools: Use clean hands and tools when shaping your mints to avoid stickiness; a dusty surface helps keep them manageable while shaping.
Color Sparingly: If using gel food coloring, a little goes a long way—use sparingly to maintain the desired texture of your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints.

Make Ahead Options

These Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during busy holiday seasons or special events! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following steps 1 and 2, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. If you want to shape the mints, complete steps 3 and 4 and place them on parchment paper for drying, which can also be done overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them air dry for at least 8 hours at room temperature for that classic melt-in-your-mouth texture. Don’t rush this drying step, as it ensures the mints are just as delicious as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Butter Mints?

These creamy, nostalgic treats pair beautifully with a variety of flavors and textures, making your gathering even more delightful.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the mints, balancing flavors perfectly.
Herbal Tea: A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea complements the peppermint in the mints, enhancing the overall experience.
Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese to provide a rich texture that marries well with the sweet, minty candies.
Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels coated in chocolate creates an exciting sweet and savory pairing with the mints.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these butter mints alongside a scoop of simple vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert combination that feels indulgent yet nostalgic.
Sparkling Citrus Punch: A refreshing drink like a sparkling lemonade or a citrus-infused soda can brighten your table and keep things bubbly!

With these delightful pairings, your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints will shine as the star of your gathering, inviting smiles and satisfying sweet cravings.

Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints?
Absolutely! When selecting butter for your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, ensure you choose high-quality unsalted butter at room temperature for a creamy texture. The butter should be soft to the touch but not melted. For milk or heavy cream, check the expiration date and choose fresh, creamy options to enhance flavor.

How should I store my Old-Fashioned Butter Mints and how long do they last?
You can store your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you’re planning to keep them longer, refrigerate them in a sealed container where they can stay fresh for about 1 month. For maximum freshness, freeze the mints in a sealed container for up to 3 months; just be sure to allow them to thaw completely at room temperature before serving.

Can I freeze Old-Fashioned Butter Mints, and how do I do that?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints! To freeze, arrange the mints in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the mints to a sealed freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment if desired. This method helps prevent sticking, so they’ll be easy to pop out later!

What should I do if my mints are too sticky or won’t hold their shape?
If your Old-Fashioned Butter Mints are too sticky, it might be that the butter was too warm or the dough is too soft. I recommend dusting your work surface and your hands with powdered sugar while shaping. If the dough is overly soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle. Remember to allow sufficient drying time, as this helps to firm up the mints!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with Old-Fashioned Butter Mints?
Yes! Since this recipe uses dairy products like butter and cream, it contains lactose, which could be a concern for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. For a dairy-free option, you can try substituting the butter with a plant-based butter alternative and using almond milk or oat milk in place of the cream. However, be sure to check the ingredients for potential allergens as some plant-based alternatives may still contain nuts.