Homemade Mints

These mints always bring back memories, my mom used to make them when we were kids, and honestly, I was always wowed...little did I know how crazy easy they are to make {and inexpensive too...you probably have everything you need already on hand}.  So if you are looking for an easy gift, try these...

You will need:

1 stick butter, softened {and to be honest, margarine works just fine here too}

1 pound powdered sugar {confectioners sugar}

2 tablespoons evaporated milk

1/4 teaspoon {or so} peppermint extract, to taste...or try any other flavor you like.

Additional Powdered sugar...if needed

Food coloring {optional}

1. Combine the butter, sugar and evaporated milk in a large mixing bowl.  Beat with an electric mixer {I use my Kitchen Aid with paddle attachment}, until the mixture comes together and forms a "dough."

2.  Remove from mixer, divide dough {if you want more than one color}.  Add a few drops of food coloring, gel always works best, and knead in until evenly colored.  If the dough is a little too sticky, go ahead and add a little more {just a little} powdered sugar.

3. Using a teaspoon, scoop out some of the dough.  I like to do this assembly line style...I scoop a bunch...then move onto the next step.

4.  Roll each scoop of dough into a ball.  It doesn't have to be perfectly round.  Basically you are looking for smooth edges.  Place each on a paper towel.

5. Using the tines of a fork, mash each ball into a disk. If  you find your fork sticking a lot, let them dry out for a minute or two.  Also, you can always dip the tines of the fork into powdered sugar to keep from sticking.

6. Lightly cover your candies with another layer of paper towel, and allow to dry overnight or up to 24 hours.  

I like to package mine wrapped in waxed paper and tied with string.  Your friends will love you :)