Peppermint brings holiday magic to everything it touches. Sweet, cool, and perfectly festive, it turns simple desserts into something joyful. From cookies to brownies and creamy drinks, these peppermint treats are easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to put a smile on every face.
1. Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is one of the easiest holiday treats. Melt dark chocolate, spread it thin on a baking sheet, chill, then top with melted white chocolate and crushed candy canes. Break into pieces once firm.
To save money, buy bulk chocolate chips instead of expensive bars. Store-brand candy canes work perfectly for the topping.
This treat looks beautiful in clear bags tied with ribbon, making it perfect for gifts. It’s crunchy, sweet, and a true holiday classic.
2. Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Warm up with a mug of peppermint hot chocolate. Stir crushed peppermint or peppermint extract into rich hot cocoa. Top with whipped cream and candy cane pieces.
For a budget tip, make cocoa from scratch using cocoa powder, sugar, and milk instead of pre-mixed packets. Add a few drops of peppermint extract — a small bottle lasts all season.
This drink feels cozy, festive, and perfect for chilly nights.
3. Peppermint Fudge
Peppermint fudge is creamy, chocolatey, and full of holiday flavor. Melt chocolate chips with condensed milk, stir in peppermint extract, and pour into a pan. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before chilling.
This recipe makes a big batch at a low cost. Line a baking dish with parchment so you can lift and slice easily.
Serve as bite-sized squares or package in holiday tins for gifting. It’s rich, sweet, and irresistible.
4. Peppermint Brownies
Upgrade brownies with a peppermint twist. Bake your favorite brownie recipe, then top with melted white chocolate and crushed candy canes.
Boxed brownie mix works perfectly and keeps it budget-friendly. Add a drop of peppermint extract to the batter for extra flavor.
These brownies are chewy, festive, and guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering.
5. Peppermint Ice Cream
Even in winter, peppermint ice cream is a treat. Mix crushed candy canes into vanilla ice cream along with a little peppermint extract. No ice cream maker needed — just fold into softened ice cream and freeze again.
Store-brand vanilla ice cream is perfect for this. A few candy canes add plenty of flavor without spending much.
Serve in bowls with hot fudge or in cones for kids. It’s creamy, cool, and fun.
6. Peppermint Cookies
Bake a batch of peppermint cookies for a festive snack. Use sugar cookie dough, add a touch of peppermint extract, and top with crushed candy canes.
Premade dough saves time and works well. For a budget-friendly glaze, melt white chocolate chips instead of buying frosting.
These cookies are simple, crunchy, and perfect for cookie swaps.
7. Peppermint Cheesecake
A peppermint cheesecake is rich and festive. Blend cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and peppermint extract, then bake over a chocolate cookie crust. Chill and top with whipped cream and peppermint pieces.
For savings, use store-brand cream cheese and make your own crust with crushed cookies.
This dessert looks stunning on the holiday table and tastes even better.
8. Peppermint Truffles
Peppermint truffles are bite-sized treats that feel fancy. Mix crushed cookies with cream cheese and peppermint extract, roll into balls, dip in chocolate, and sprinkle with peppermint.
Use inexpensive chocolate chips for dipping. Keep them chilled until serving.
They’re easy to make in batches and perfect for gifting or parties.
9. Peppermint Cupcakes
Bake chocolate cupcakes and top with peppermint frosting. Add crushed peppermint or mini candy canes for decoration.
A box of cake mix keeps it budget-friendly and stress-free. Tint the frosting light pink with food coloring for a festive look.
These cupcakes are cheerful, sweet, and perfect for holiday gatherings.
10. Peppermint Milkshake
Blend vanilla ice cream, milk, and peppermint extract to make a peppermint milkshake. Add crushed candy canes for texture.
Use store-brand ice cream to save money. Garnish with whipped cream and sprinkles for a fun finish.
This drink is festive, refreshing, and great for holiday movie nights.
Conclusion
Peppermint turns ordinary treats into something joyful and festive. These 10 peppermint recipes are easy, affordable, and perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy nights at home. Try one this season, share with friends, and let peppermint bring holiday cheer to your table.
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