Do you find yourself disappointed by store-bought mints that leave an artificial aftertaste or melt too quickly?
I’m Alexandra, and I understand that struggle completely. Five years ago, I was frantically searching for the perfect sweet treat to serve at my grandmother’s 90th birthday party when I stumbled upon her handwritten recipe box tucked away in the kitchen cupboard.
Inside, I discovered her secret old-fashioned butter mints recipe a treasure that had been creating sweet memories for decades.
This old-fashioned butter mints recipe delivers creamy, melt-in-your-mouth confections that taste like pure nostalgia. As someone who’s spent countless hours perfecting candy-making techniques in my kitchen, I can guarantee these homemade mints will become your go-to treat for special occasions and everyday indulgences alike.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore ingredient selection tips, temperature control secrets, and creative flavor variations that will make your old-fashioned butter mints absolutely irresistible.
Why This Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Recipe Works
These old-fashioned butter mints succeed because they combine simplicity with time-tested technique. Unlike complicated candy recipes, this approach focuses on achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, creaminess, and that signature buttery finish.
• Uses affordable pantry staples you likely already have
• Requires no special candy-making equipment or thermometers
• Perfect for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced bakers
• Creates consistent results every single time
• Ideal for gift-giving, parties, or satisfying sudden sweet cravings
Choosing the Right Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final texture and flavor of your old-fashioned butter mints.
Best Ingredients for This Recipe
Butter Selection: European-style butter works exceptionally well due to its higher fat content and lower water content. This creates smoother, richer mints with better stability. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level precisely.
Powdered Sugar Quality: Fine powdered sugar dissolves more easily and creates a silkier texture. Avoid coarse confectioner’s sugar that can leave your mints grainy.
Flavoring Options: Pure peppermint extract delivers the most authentic flavor, while vanilla extract creates classic butter mints with subtle complexity.
Buying Tips
Look for butter with a pale yellow color and fresh smell avoid any with off-odors. Store butter properly at 65-70°F for optimal mixing temperature. Choose powdered sugar that flows freely without clumps, and always use pure extracts rather than artificial flavoring for the best taste.
Substitutions
Swap cream cheese for half the butter to create tangier mints. Replace peppermint extract with lemon, orange, or almond extract for different flavor profiles. Coconut oil can substitute for butter in dairy-free versions, though the texture will be slightly different.
Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Ingredients & Prep
Essential Mint Prep
• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 3-4 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
• Food coloring (optional)
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Preparation Essentials
Allow butter to soften naturally for 2-3 hours at room temperature this ensures proper incorporation without melting. Sift powdered sugar to eliminate lumps that could affect texture. Prepare your work surface by dusting with powdered sugar and having molds or shaping tools ready.
Pantry Staples
Keep these items stocked for successful old-fashioned butter mints: fine-mesh sifter, mixing bowls, wooden spoon or stand mixer, measuring spoons, and airtight storage containers. Having parchment paper and small candy molds makes shaping easier and more professional-looking.
Step-by-Step Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Instructions
Pre-Cooking Prep for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Ensure your butter reaches proper room temperature it should give slightly when pressed but not be greasy. Sift powdered sugar thoroughly and measure all ingredients before beginning. Clear adequate counter space and dust with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
Mixing Method for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Cream softened butter until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Gradually add powdered sugar one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly between additions. Pour in cream and peppermint extract, beating until mixture forms a smooth, pliable dough that holds together without being sticky.
Shaping Process for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Roll mixture into small balls using your hands or a small cookie scoop. Press each ball lightly with a fork to create decorative ridges, or use candy molds for more elaborate shapes. Work quickly to prevent the mixture from becoming too warm and difficult to handle.
Setting Time for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Place shaped mints on parchment-lined trays and refrigerate for 30-45 minutes until firm. This chilling step is crucial for maintaining shape and achieving the proper texture. Store finished mints in cool, dry conditions.
Pro Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Avoiding Common Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Mistakes
Temperature Control: Keep ingredients and workspace cool to prevent melting and maintain shape. If mixture becomes too soft, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes before continuing.
Texture Problems: Add powdered sugar gradually if mixture seems too wet, or incorporate small amounts of cream if it’s too dry and crumbly.
Tool Recommendations for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Invest in a reliable stand mixer for consistent results, silicone candy molds for professional presentation, and quality measuring tools for accuracy. A bench scraper helps manage sticky dough, while parchment paper prevents sticking.
Storage & Reheating Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Store finished mints in airtight containers at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for up to three weeks. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking. These mints freeze beautifully for up to three months – just thaw at room temperature before serving.
For more delicious treats that pair wonderfully with these mints, check out our Ricotta Pistachio Honey Bites for an elegant dessert spread.
Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Flavor Variations
Spicy Twist for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Add 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon extract combined with a pinch of cayenne pepper for warming heat. Incorporate finely ground crystallized ginger for subtle spice that complements the butter beautifully.
Healthier Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Options
Replace half the powdered sugar with powdered erythritol for lower-calorie versions. Use Greek yogurt in place of some cream for added protein while maintaining creamy texture.
Global Flavors for Old-Fashioned Butter Mints
Create French Lavender mints using 1/2 teaspoon food-grade lavender extract. For Italian-inspired versions, substitute lemon extract and add finely grated lemon zest. Mexican Vanilla mints shine with pure vanilla extract and a hint of cinnamon.
| Flavor Variation | Extract Amount | Additional Ingredients | Setting Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Peppermint | 1 tsp peppermint | None | 30-45 minutes |
| Vanilla Bean | 1 tsp vanilla | 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste | 30-45 minutes |
| Lemon Zest | 3/4 tsp lemon | 1 tbsp fresh lemon zest | 45-60 minutes |
| Lavender | 1/2 tsp lavender | Dried lavender buds | 45-60 minutes |
| Orange Cream | 3/4 tsp orange | 1 tbsp orange zest | 30-45 minutes |
Discover more inspiration for your sweet creations on our Pinterest you’ll find hundreds of tested recipes and creative presentation ideas that will spark your culinary imagination!
Old-Fashioned Butter Mints Serving Suggestions
Pair these delicate old-fashioned butter mints with hot coffee or tea for an elegant afternoon treat. They complement rich desserts beautifully serve alongside chocolate cake or fruit tarts to cleanse the palate. For special occasions, arrange mints on vintage silver trays with fresh mint sprigs as garnish.
Create stunning gift presentations by packaging mints in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon. They make thoughtful hostess gifts, wedding favors, or holiday treats that show genuine care and effort.
Consider serving these alongside our Baked Pears for a sophisticated dessert course that balances warm and cool temperatures perfectly.
Old-Fashioned Butter Mints FAQs
Can I make old-fashioned butter mints without a mixer?
Absolutely! Hand-mixing works perfectly well, though it requires more patience and elbow grease. Ensure butter is properly softened and add powdered sugar gradually while mixing vigorously.
How do I fix old-fashioned butter mints that turned out too soft?
Gradually incorporate more sifted powdered sugar until the mixture reaches proper consistency. Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes between adjustments to assess texture accurately.
Are old-fashioned butter mints safe during pregnancy?
Yes, these mints contain no raw eggs or other ingredients of concern during pregnancy. However, consume in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can I double this old-fashioned butter mints recipe?
Yes, this recipe doubles and triples successfully. Mix in batches if your equipment capacity is limited, maintaining the same ingredient ratios for consistent results.
Conclusion
Fire up your kitchen creativity and try these old-fashioned butter mints tonight! This treasured family recipe has brought joy to thousands of home cooks who’ve discovered the magic of homemade confections.
Ready to explore more timeless recipes? Try our Caramelized Onion Gruyere Tart for your next gathering, where sweet meets savory in perfect harmony!
Print
Old-Fashioned Butter Mints: Grandmas Secret Sweet Treat Revealed!
- Total Time: 12 hrs 20 mins (including drying)
- Yield: 100 mints 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy, melt-in-your-mouth butter mints made the old-fashioned way smooth, pastel candies that bring nostalgic charm to any holiday table or celebration.
Ingredients
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 tsp salt
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
1/2 tsp peppermint extract (or more to taste)
Gel food coloring (optional)
Extra powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, beat softened butter and salt until creamy.
2. Add sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract; mix until smooth.
3. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until a soft, pliable dough forms.
4. If desired, divide dough into portions and tint each with food coloring.
5. On a surface dusted with powdered sugar, roll each portion into a long rope about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Cut into small bite-sized pieces using a knife or bench scraper.
7. Arrange mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let stand uncovered at room temperature for 12–24 hours, or until firm and dry to the touch.
8. Store in an airtight container at room temperature once dried.
Notes
Use gel coloring for soft pastel hues — perfect for holidays or weddings.
Adjust peppermint extract to your taste for a milder or stronger mint flavor.
For extra creaminess, add a teaspoon of heavy cream if the dough feels too stiff.
These mints keep well for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container or can be frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 5 mints
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: butter mints, old-fashioned candy, homemade mints, peppermint candy, Christmas butter mints