Get ready to delight your taste buds this holiday season with peppermint candy spoons! These fun, festive treats combine sweet flavors and yummy chocolate, making them perfect for gifts, parties, or cozy nights in. I’ll guide you step-by-step through making these easy, tasty spoons with simple ingredients you can find at home. Let’s create a treat that will brighten everyone’s holidays!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Festive Treat: These peppermint candy spoons are perfect for the holiday season, adding a fun and whimsical touch to your dessert table.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, this recipe is straightforward enough for bakers of all levels.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different flavors or types of chocolate to make these spoons uniquely yours!
- Great for Gifting: Pack these candy spoons in a cute jar or cupcake liner, and they make delightful homemade gifts for friends and family!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
– 2 tablespoons semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 10 plastic or wooden spoon handles
The main stars of our peppermint candy spoons are crushed peppermint candies. You can use regular peppermint candies or classic candy canes. Both work well! The semi-sweet chocolate chips add a rich flavor. Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly. Finally, you need spoon handles. Plastic or wooden works great!
Optional Ingredients
– Additional flavorings (vanilla extract)
– Colorful sprinkles for decoration
If you want to mix things up, add vanilla extract for a unique twist. Sprinkles can also make your spoons more festive. They look great and add a fun crunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps the spoons bake evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the spoons from sticking.
3. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies with 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Mix well to spread the flavor throughout.
Baking Process
1. Spoon the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Make small mounds, about 1-2 tablespoons each.
2. Leave some space between each mound. The mixture will spread a bit while baking.
3. Bake for 7-10 minutes. Watch for the edges to start melting together.
4. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the spoons cool completely.
Final Touches
1. While the peppermint spoons cool, melt 2 tablespoons of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 teaspoon of coconut oil together. Use a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Heat in 15-second increments, stirring in between until smooth.
3. Once the peppermint spoons are firm and cool, dip the tops into the melted chocolate. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
4. Place the dipped spoons back on the parchment paper. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate them for quicker results.
5. Your peppermint candy spoons are now ready to enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Peppermint Spoons
To make perfect peppermint spoons, focus on the consistency of the candy mix. You want it sticky enough to hold its shape. If it’s too dry, add a little more peppermint extract. This will help enhance the flavor.
When you dip the spoons in chocolate, make sure it’s smooth. I recommend using a microwave to melt the chocolate and coconut oil together. Heat them in short bursts of 15 seconds. Stir after each burst until the mixture is silky. This prevents the chocolate from burning.
Presentation Ideas
For a festive display, arrange your peppermint spoons in a mason jar. You can also use clear cupcake liners for a fun look. This adds a special touch for parties or gifts.
Pair these spoons with hot cocoa or coffee. They add a sweet and minty flavor to your drinks. You can also use them to stir into desserts like ice cream. They look great and taste amazing!
Timing Tips
You can make the peppermint spoons ahead of time. They stay fresh for about a week if stored well. Keep them in a cool, dry place.
If you want to serve them later, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them from getting sticky. You can also refrigerate them to make sure they last longer.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Peppermint Extract: For the most vibrant flavor, opt for pure peppermint extract rather than imitation. It enhances the overall taste of your candy spoons.
- Crush Candies Evenly: Ensure your peppermint candies are crushed into uniform sizes for consistent melting and shaping. This will help them bake evenly.
- Chocolate Dipping Technique: For a smooth chocolate coating, make sure your chocolate mixture is warm but not too hot. This prevents the chocolate from seizing or becoming too thick.
- Storage Tips: Store your peppermint candy spoons in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from becoming sticky. They also make great gifts!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the flavor of your peppermint candy spoons. Adding different extracts gives new tastes. Try vanilla or almond extract for a twist. A few drops will make a big difference. You can also use food coloring. This makes your spoons pop with color. Use red or green for that festive touch. Swirling colors will look fun and exciting.
Chocolate Options
The chocolate adds a rich flavor to your spoons. You can use white chocolate or milk chocolate. Each will give a different taste. For a fun look, swirl different chocolates together. Melt them separately and mix lightly. This creates a beautiful marbled effect. You can even sprinkle some crushed candy on top for extra flair.
Alternative Candy Uses
Besides peppermint candies, you can use other types of candy. Try using crushed chocolate mints or butterscotch candies. You can also use fruity candies for a fun change. Just crush them as you would with peppermint. Each candy will make a unique spoon. This lets you create flavors your friends will love.
Storage Info
Storing Your Peppermint Spoons
To keep your peppermint spoons fresh, store them in an airtight container. I suggest using a glass jar with a tight lid. This prevents moisture and keeps them crisp. You can also use a plastic container, but make sure it seals well. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Avoid sunlight, as heat can cause the chocolate to melt.
Shelf Life
Homemade peppermint candy spoons can last about two weeks if stored properly. After that, they may lose their flavor and crunch. Look for signs of spoilage, like a dull surface or a sticky texture. If they smell off or have a strange taste, it’s time to toss them. To enjoy them at their best, eat them fresh!
FAQs
Can I use other types of candy?
Yes, you can! If you want to change the flavor, try different candies. You can use crushed butterscotch candies for a sweet twist. You might also like using crushed chocolate mints. For a fruity flavor, try red or green gummy candies. Just remember to crush them small, so they melt nicely.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Making peppermint candy spoons vegan is easy. First, swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dairy-free chocolate chips. Use coconut oil as it is plant-based. Make sure your peppermint candies or candy canes do not have any animal products. Many brands offer vegan options, so read the labels.
Where can I buy ready-made peppermint candy spoons?
You can find ready-made peppermint candy spoons at some specialty shops. Search online for brands like Sweet Shop or Candy Crate. They often sell them in festive packaging. Check local markets around the holidays for fun treats. Online retailers like Amazon or Etsy have many options too.
You learned how to make tasty peppermint spoons. We covered key ingredients and steps, plus tips for perfecting your recipe. Consider creative variations and storage tips to keep them fresh. With just a few simple steps, you can impress friends and family. Enjoy making these fun treats and share them at your next party. Remember, the best part is being creative and adding your own twist. Happy bakin
