Classic Peppermint Drop Candy (Printable Format)
Crunchy peppermint drops with a cooling flavor, ideal for holiday treats or anytime snacking.
# What You Need:
→ Sugar Syrup
01 - 2 cups granulated sugar
02 - 2/3 cup light corn syrup
03 - 1/2 cup water
→ Flavor & Color
04 - 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
05 - 2-3 drops red food coloring (optional)
→ Finishing
06 - Powdered sugar, for dusting
# How-To Steps:
01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust with powdered sugar.
02 - In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
03 - Attach a candy thermometer to the pan. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil without stirring. Continue boiling until the temperature reaches 300°F (149°C). Remove from heat promptly.
04 - Allow bubbles to subside, then quickly stir in peppermint extract and red food coloring if using, as the mixture will begin to set.
05 - Using a small spoon, drop small rounds (about 1/2 teaspoon each) onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
06 - Let the candies cool completely and harden for approximately 30 minutes.
07 - Lightly dust the set candies with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- These candies are ridiculously easy to make once you understand the temperature game—no fancy equipment or culinary degree required, just patience and a candy thermometer.
- The cooling sensation from peppermint extract is genuinely addictive, and homemade versions taste infinitely fresher than anything wrapped in plastic.
- They're naturally gluten-free and vegetarian, making them perfect for sharing with friends who have dietary restrictions.
- That satisfying crunch when you bite down is something you simply can't get from softer candies—it's pure, unadulterated satisfaction.
02 -
- Temperature is everything—I learned this the hard way when I removed the syrup at 295°F and ended up with chewy candies instead of the satisfying crunch. Invest in a reliable candy thermometer and trust it completely.
- Humidity is the enemy of peppermint drops. On a damp day, even perfectly made candies can become sticky and soft within hours, so store them in an airtight container and keep them away from steam and moisture.
- The moment you add the peppermint extract, your window closes fast. Have everything ready before you start cooking, because once you remove that pan from heat, speed is your ally.
03 -
- If you want uniform, professional-looking candies, silicone candy molds are genuinely worth the small investment—they take the guesswork out of sizing and create beautiful consistency.
- For a stunning festive presentation, try alternating your drops of red and white candy—drop one regular batch, let it cool slightly, then drop a batch without coloring for striking visual contrast.
- Keep a small bowl of warm water nearby while you're dropping—if your spoon gets sticky, a quick dip keeps your work clean and your candies looking neat.