Butter Mintsrevised Easier Recipe For Some

Steps:

• In a large bowl, beat the butter, confectioners' sugar, cream and extracts. If desired, divide dough into portions and knead in food coloring. , Form into balls by teaspoonfuls; flatten into patties, or roll between 2 pieces of waxed paper to 1/8-in. thickness. Cut mints into desired shapes. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. Store in the refrigerator.

Steps:

• Combine butter and 2 cups sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on low speed until sugar is moistened, then increase speed to medium-high and beat until well combined. Return mixer to low speed, add remaining 2 cups sugar, and mix until well combined, 1 minute. Increase speed to medium-high; beat until light and fluffy, 6 minutes more. Add peppermint extract, milk, and salt; beat until smooth.
• Lightly dust a clean work surface with confectioners' sugar and turn out "dough" onto it. Divide into 5 pieces; tint as desired with food coloring, leaving one piece white. (Keep covered with plastic wrap while working to prevent drying.)
• Roll "dough" into 1/2-inch-thick ropes, then cut into pieces slightly over 1/2 inch long with a paring knife or bench scraper. Transfer to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Let dry, uncovered, at least 12 hours. Mints can be refrigerated in an airtight container up to 2 weeks.

Steps:

• Cream the butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on low speed until it is soft and fluffy. Add the sugar and the mint extract and beat at low speed until the mixture is thick, creamy, and smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
• Cut 2 large sheets of plastic wrap and place on your work surface. Divide the mixture into 2 equal portions and place each on the plastic sheets. Roll the mixture into the plastic wrap, forming it into logs about 1/2-inch in diameter. Wrap the plastic wrap securely around the logs and chill for 4 hours.
• Pinch off about a rounded teaspoon of the butter cream and shape into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on parchment or waxed paper and flatten with the tines of a fork. Refrigerate in layers of parchment paper in an airtight container until ready to serve. Mints will keep for up to 1 week.