Old fashioned butter mints have a special place in my heart, and I’m so excited to share this classic homemade treat with you. I remember my grandmother making these vintage butter mints every holiday season. The sweet, cool peppermint aroma would fill her kitchen, and the melt-in-your-mouth texture was pure magic. They’re so simple to make, and the taste of pure butter and peppermint is just divine. This old fashioned butter mint candy is truly a taste of nostalgia. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Butter Mints Recipe
You’re going to adore making these delightful old fashioned butter mints. They offer a wonderfully sweet and cool peppermint flavor that’s incredibly satisfying. Plus, the prep time is a breeze, making it an ideal activity for a busy afternoon. You’ll be amazed at how budget-friendly these homemade butter mints are, especially compared to store-bought versions. They’re also a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joy of candy making, making it a perfect family-friendly activity. This classic butter mint recipe is simple enough for beginners, and the results are always impressive. You’ll find these easy old fashioned butter mints are a delightful addition to any occasion!
Essential Ingredients for Butter Mints from Scratch
Gathering the right butter mint ingredients is key to a perfect batch of these delightful old fashioned butter mints. This classic butter mint recipe with butter is surprisingly simple, relying on just a few pantry staples. You’ll need 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; the softening is crucial for a smooth, creamy texture. We’ll also use 3 cups powdered sugar, which gives the mints their signature sweetness and structure. Don’t forget 1/4 teaspoon salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors. Finally, 1 teaspoon peppermint extract provides that refreshing minty kick, and a few drops of green food coloring (optional) can add a festive touch.
How to Make Old Fashioned Butter Mints
Making these delightful homemade butter mints is a straightforward process that yields a truly classic candy. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create these melt-in-your-mouth treats right in your own kitchen. Follow these simple steps for the best results.
- Step 1: Start by beating the 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened in a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the butter is wonderfully creamy and smooth. This initial creaming step is vital for achieving the right texture.
- Step 2: Gradually add the 3 cups powdered sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt to the creamed butter. Mix on low speed at first to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase to medium speed and continue beating until everything is thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and pale.
- Step 3: Stir in the 1 teaspoon peppermint extract. If you desire a pretty pastel color, now is the time to add the green food coloring. Add it a drop at a time, mixing well after each addition, until you reach your perfect shade for these old fashioned butter mints.
- Step 4: This is where the fun begins! You can shape the mixture into small mints using a piping bag fitted with a star tip for a classic look. Alternatively, you can roll small portions of the dough into logs about 1/2 inch thick and then cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 5: Arrange your beautifully shaped homemade butter mints on a baking sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
- Step 6: Allow the classic butter mints to set at room temperature. This typically takes at least 1 hour, or until they feel firm to the touch. Patience here ensures they hold their shape perfectly.
- Step 7: Once firm, your old fashioned butter mints are ready to be enjoyed or stored. This method for how to make old fashioned butter mints results in a delightful vintage candy.

Pro Tips for the Best Vintage Butter Mints
Want your homemade butter mints to be absolutely perfect? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate these classic candies. Using room temperature, softened butter is absolutely crucial for a smooth, creamy texture that pipes beautifully. Don’t be tempted to rush the setting process; allowing them adequate time at room temperature ensures they firm up properly without getting hard. For that signature melt-in-your-mouth quality, resist the urge to overmix the dough once the sugar is added. These little tips will make your vintage butter mints truly unforgettable!
What’s the secret to perfect old fashioned butter mints?
The secret to those perfect old fashioned butter mints lies in the butter and the powdered sugar. Ensure your butter is truly softened, not melted, and that you gradually incorporate the powdered sugar. This technique creates a smooth, creamy base that’s essential for a soft butter mints recipe. For more tips on achieving the perfect texture, check out this guide on baking techniques.
Can I make traditional butter mints ahead of time?
Absolutely! These traditional butter mints are fantastic for making ahead. Once they’ve set, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’re a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or holidays.
How do I avoid common mistakes with butter mint candy making?
A common pitfall in butter mint candy making is using cold butter, which leads to a lumpy texture. Also, avoid adding too much liquid or extract, as this can make the mints too soft to hold their shape. Ensure your powdered sugar is sifted if it’s clumpy. Learning about ingredient properties can help prevent these issues.
Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Peppermint Candies
These delightful old fashioned butter mints are incredibly versatile and add a touch of elegance to any occasion. I love serving them after a rich meal, alongside coffee or tea, as a sweet palate cleanser. They pair wonderfully with chocolate desserts, like a decadent flourless chocolate cake or rich brownies, creating a classic flavor combination. For holiday gatherings, these old fashioned peppermint candies are a must-have on a festive candy tray, nestled amongst other seasonal treats. They also make a charming addition to wedding favors or small thank-you gifts, bringing a taste of nostalgic sweetness to your guests. Consider pairing them with a slice of chocolate cake for a delightful treat.
Nutrition Facts for Homemade Butter Mints
Enjoying these delightful homemade butter mints is a sweet experience, and it’s helpful to know what you’re getting. Each serving, which is about one mint, offers a modest treat. You can expect approximately Calories: 50 per mint. They contain about Fat: 3g, with Saturated Fat: 2g of that. You’ll find Carbohydrates: 7g in each small confection, with Sugar: contributing 6g of that total. There’s minimal Fiber: at 0g and Protein: at 0g. Each mint also has a very low Sodium: content of 15mg. Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more information on sugar content, you can consult resources on dietary guidelines.
How to Store and Reheat Old Fashioned Butter Mints
Properly storing your old fashioned butter mints ensures they stay fresh and delicious, whether you’re saving them for a rainy day or preparing for upcoming events. After making your homemade butter mints, allow them to cool completely on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Once they’re firm, transfer them to an airtight container. For short-term storage, they’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, which can be handy if you need them for a specific occasion. If you want to keep your butter mints for longer, especially for future butter mints for holidays, the freezer is your best friend. Store them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. To reheat them after freezing, simply bring them to room temperature for a few hours; no actual reheating is needed, they just need to thaw.
Frequently Asked Questions About Butter Mints Recipe No Corn Syrup
Can I use a different sweetener in this butter mints recipe no corn syrup?
While this is a butter mints recipe no corn syrup, other granulated sweeteners won’t work. The fine texture of powdered sugar is essential for the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth quality of these mints. Using granulated sugar would result in a gritty texture.
My mints are too soft. What went wrong?
If your mints are too soft, it might be due to humidity or not enough powdered sugar. Try adding a little more powdered sugar to stiffen the mixture. For a firmer result, you can also chill them for a bit longer after shaping.
Can I add other flavors besides peppermint?
Absolutely! While peppermint is classic, you can experiment with other extracts like spearmint, vanilla, or even a touch of almond extract. Just be sure to use a similar amount, as extracts can be potent.
How many butter mints does this recipe make?
This recipe typically yields about 50 mints, depending on the size you shape them. It’s a great batch size for sharing or for keeping your candy jar stocked for a while!
Variations of Classic Butter Mints You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, there are so many fun ways to customize these classic butter mints! For a wonderfully rich twist, try adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dough for a delightful chocolate-mint flavor. You can also experiment with different extracts; a hint of orange or lemon extract can create a lovely citrus-mint profile that’s incredibly refreshing. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with a good quality vegan butter stick, ensuring your classic butter mints are suitable for more dietary needs. For a slightly different texture, you could even try a no-bake method where you pipe the mixture onto parchment paper and let it set, creating a softer, more piped appearance. For more creative baking ideas, explore blueberry blondies.

These old fashioned butter mints are a delightful trip down memory lane, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing these sweet, minty treasures!
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Old Fashioned Butter Mints: Divine 7-Step Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 50 mints 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe provides instructions for making old fashioned butter mints, a classic homemade candy. Learn how to create these vintage butter mints from scratch for a traditional treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Instructions
- Beat the softened butter in a large bowl until creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and salt, mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the peppermint extract. If using, add green food coloring a drop at a time until the desired color is reached.
- Shape the mixture into small mints using a piping bag with a star tip or by rolling small portions into logs and cutting them into pieces.
- Place the old fashioned butter mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Allow the homemade butter mints to set at room temperature for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
- Store your classic butter mints in an airtight container.
Notes
- For firmer mints, you can refrigerate them for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
- Adjust the amount of peppermint extract to your preference.
- Experiment with different food coloring colors for holiday variations.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mint
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 7mg







