Crushed peppermint is hard peppermint candy or candy canes broken into small pieces. It is used as a topping for cookies, bark, brownies, hot chocolate, ice cream, cupcakes, and holiday desserts.
Best Uses
| Use | How to add it | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Peppermint bark | Sprinkle over melted chocolate | Add before the chocolate sets |
| Cookies | Fold into dough or sprinkle after baking | Use smaller pieces so they do not feel sharp |
| Hot chocolate | Add a small spoonful on top | It melts and sweetens the drink |
| Ice cream | Use as a crunchy topping | Add right before serving |
| Brownies or cupcakes | Sprinkle over frosting or ganache | Keep pieces dry until serving |
How to Crush Peppermint
- Unwrap the peppermint candy or candy canes.
- Put them in a sturdy zip-top bag.
- Cover the bag with a towel.
- Tap with a rolling pin or meat mallet until the pieces are the size you want.
- Separate large chunks from fine dust if the recipe needs visible pieces.
Storage
Keep crushed peppermint in an airtight container in a cool, dry cabinet. Moisture makes the pieces sticky and clumpy. If it becomes wet, sticky, or picks up off odors, replace it.
Substitutes
- Chopped candy canes
- Peppermint baking chips
- Peppermint extract plus sugar sprinkles
- Crushed starlight mints
- Chocolate mint candies, when the recipe can handle chocolate
Label and Allergy Notes
Ingredients vary by brand. Check the package if you need a dye-free, gluten-free, vegan, kosher, halal, nut-free, or dairy-free option. Do not assume every peppermint candy is made in the same facility.
FAQ
Is crushed peppermint the same as crushed candy canes?
Usually, yes. Candy canes are a common source, but any hard peppermint candy can be crushed.
Can you bake crushed peppermint?
Yes, but it can melt. For a cleaner look, add some pieces after baking or press them into frosting, glaze, or melted chocolate.
How fine should the pieces be?
Use coarse pieces for toppings and finer pieces for dough, frosting, or drink rims.
Why did my crushed peppermint get sticky?
It likely absorbed moisture. Store it airtight and keep it away from steam, humid cabinets, and warm counters.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Crush it ahead and store it airtight, but for the best crunch, add it to desserts close to serving time.