
Learn how to make homemade butter mints with just six simple ingredients. These smooth, creamy candies melt in your mouth and can be customized with food coloring. Commonly known as “wedding mints,” they are a favorite at baby showers, bridal showers, and holiday gatherings.
What Are Butter Mints?
Butter mints are soft, melt-in-your-mouth candies made primarily from butter and powdered sugar. Unlike cream cheese mints, this recipe skips the cream cheese and uses more butter for a richer flavor. They are often served as after-dinner mints or included on dessert tables at special occasions. One batch yields approximately 200 small mints.
Ingredients for Butter Mints
- Unsalted Butter – Provides a rich, creamy base; add a pinch of salt for flavor.
- Salt – Enhances the overall taste.
- Powdered Sugar – A key ingredient that gives the dough structure and sweetness.
- Peppermint Extract – Adds refreshing mint flavor. Avoid generic “mint extract” as it may taste artificial.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
- Heavy Cream – Optional but helps make the texture smoother and creamier.
- Food Coloring (Optional) – A drop of red or any pastel color can be used for a festive appearance.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Butter Mints
Making butter mints is similar to creating thick frosting or dough:
- Beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly add half the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.

- Add peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Pour in the heavy cream and beat again until incorporated.
- Add the remaining powdered sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a playdough-like consistency.
- Adjust consistency – add more powdered sugar if sticky, or a little more cream if crumbly.
- Add food coloring if desired and mix until evenly colored.
- Roll the dough into thin logs, cut into small pieces, and place on wax paper.
- Let the mints dry uncovered at room temperature for several hours until firm.

Storage Tips for Butter Mints
Keep your butter mints fresh by storing them properly:

- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in a cool, dry place.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 month.
- Freezer: Freeze for several months in a sealed container with layers separated by wax paper.