Ho ho how can you not  love peppermint? This is a seasonal flavor that makes you feel merry and bright. During the holiday season it is easy for one to binge and use peppermint flavoring on anything they can.One of my go to drinks is a peppermint mocha from Starbucks. During this season drinking anything with peppermint makes me feel like Christmas is approaching and for me it’s the happiest time of the year. Having peppermint candy to peppermint chocolate covered pretzels and my favorite peppermint drinks I’m always in a good mood. There are many treats you can make using peppermint.Although not everyone might like the flavoring I would surely recommend that you give it a whirl a sip on some holiday spirit.

Peppermint Kisses

INGREDIENTS

• 2 large egg whites

• 1/8 teaspoon cream of tartar

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 2 regular-size peppermint candy canes (one green, one red), crushed

DIRECTIONS

Let egg whites stand at room temperature 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 225;. Add cream of tartar and salt to egg whites; beat on medium speed until foamy. Gradually add sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, beating on high after each addition. Continue beating until stiff, glossy peaks form.

Cut a small hole in the tip of a pastry bag or in a corner of a food-safe plastic bag. Transfer egg whites to bag. Pipe 1-1/2-in. cookies 2 in. apart onto parchment paper-lined baking sheets. Sprinkle half with crushed red candy canes; the other half with green.

Bake until firm but not brown, 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Remove to wire racks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container. Yield: about 3 dozen.

Peppermint Popcorn

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound white candy coating, coarsely chopped

• 24 cups popped popcorn

• 1/2 to 3/4 cup finely crushed peppermint candy (4 to 6 candy canes)

DIRECTIONS

In a microwave, melt candy coating; stir until smooth. In a large bowl, combine the popcorn and crushed candy. Pour candy coating over top; toss to coat. Pour onto a waxed paper-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with nonpareils. When hardened, break apart. Store in an airtight container. Yield: 24 servings.