The holiday season is a time of joy, warmth, and the delightful scent of peppermint wafting through the air. Inspired by my recent trip to the snowy peaks of the Swiss Alps, where charming markets brim with festive delights, I was enchanted by the local tradition of crafting beautiful peppermint sticks. These colorful confections not only evoke memories of cozy fires but also bring a burst of freshness that brightens any dessert table.
This easy-to-make peppermint stick recipe combines the refreshing flavor of peppermint with a touch of chocolate, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for gifting or simply enjoying during the holidays.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
Prepare your workspace by ensuring a clean, flat surface for rolling the candy, and have a baking sheet lined with parchment paper ready.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir gently until the sugar has dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage).
Once the mixture reaches 300°F, remove it from heat and immediately stir in the peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up when the extracts are added.
Quickly pour the hot candy mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Allow it to cool for a few minutes until it is set but still pliable. When the edges start to harden, use a greased spatula to gently pull the edges toward the center.
With greased hands, knead the mixture until it becomes smooth and pliable. If it is too hard, warm it slightly over low heat for a few seconds. Once smooth, fold in the crushed candy canes until evenly distributed.
Divide the mixture into two equal parts. Shape each half into a long rope about 1/2 inch in diameter. Place the ropes on the parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching, and allow them to cool completely until hardened.
While the peppermint sticks cool, melt the dark chocolate chips and vegetable oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Once melted, dip each peppermint stick into the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
Before the chocolate hardens, sprinkle the sticks with additional crushed candy canes for a festive touch. Place the chocolate-dipped sticks back on the parchment paper to set completely.
Once the chocolate has hardened, your Winter Wonderland Peppermint Sticks are ready to be enjoyed! They make a charming addition to holiday gift baskets or a delightful treat to savor on a chilly evening while watching the snow fall.
These peppermint sticks not only celebrate the flavors of the season but also the heartwarming traditions that bring us together. Enjoy the sweet moments they create!