Creating homemade soft Christmas peppermints is a delightful and simple process. Follow these steps to bring your delicious mints to life:

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Clear a clean, flat surface in your kitchen where you can work comfortably.
2. Combine Gelatin and Water: In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes to bloom.
3. Dissolve Gelatin: In a small saucepan over low heat, gently warm the gelatin mixture until it is completely dissolved. Remove from heat.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a larger mixing bowl, sift the powdered sugar. Create a well in the center and pour in the dissolved gelatin.
5. Add Flavors: Add the peppermint and vanilla extracts to the mixture. If you want to add color, this is the time to include a few drops of food coloring.
6. Stir Until Combined: Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything until it forms a dough-like consistency. It may be sticky.
7. Knead the Dough: Dust your hands with powdered sugar and knead the dough until it is smooth and pliable, about 2-3 minutes.
8. Shape the Mints: Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them into balls or shape them into discs.
9. Dust with Sugar: Roll each mint in granulated sugar for a sweet finish and to prevent sticking.
10. Chill the Mints: Place the shaped mints on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.