Peppermint is more than just a holiday treat; it’s a versatile tool for your home and health. Whether you’re growing your own peppermint or finding ways to reuse candy canes, here are some fantastic ideas to make the most of this refreshing herb and sweet treat.
1. Soothe Upset Stomachs and Congestion
Peppermint is a natural remedy for upset stomachs and head colds. Try these methods:
- Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a hot drink.
- Dry and crush peppermint leaves to brew a soothing tea. Boil the leaves in water and combine with elderflower or yarrow for additional benefits.
2. Candy Cane Cake Recipe
Turn leftover candy canes into a delightful holiday dessert with this Candy Cane Cake recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sifted cake or pastry flour
- 1 3/4 cups sugar
- 12 egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 8 ounces peppermint candy canes
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Sift together flour and 3/4 cup sugar. Sift again and set aside.
- Beat egg whites until foamy. Add cream of tartar and salt, beating until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add 3/4 cup sugar, vanilla, and almond extract, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture in thirds. Pour into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan and bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Invert pan to cool completely before removing the cake.
- Crush candy canes into small pieces. Beat whipping cream with remaining sugar until soft peaks form.
- Frost the cake with whipped cream and sprinkle with crushed candy canes. Serve immediately.
3. Decorative Candy Cane Candle
Add a festive touch to your home by creating a candy cane candle. Simply glue candy canes around the base of a red or white candle. As the candle burns, the peppermint will release its fragrance, adding a cozy holiday vibe.
4. Peppermint Fudge Recipe
Use leftover candy canes to make this delicious peppermint fudge.
Ingredients:
- 2 (10-ounce) packages vanilla baking chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1 1/2 cups crushed candy canes
- 1 dash red or green food coloring
Directions:
- Line an 8-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil and grease it.
- Melt vanilla chips and condensed milk over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Stir in peppermint extract, food coloring, and crushed candy canes.
- Spread evenly in the prepared pan. Chill for 2 hours and cut into squares.
