As Christmas approaches, holiday crafting is a popular activity. A simple DIY candy cane soap is a wonderful last-minute gift idea. This soap bar, containing plant-based oils like peppermint essential oil, is highly beneficial for the skin.
You can also add fragrance oil with a candy cane scent to this soap. Making homemade candy cane soap is a festive and enjoyable activity that makes an excellent holiday present.
Why is Candy Cane Soap a Holiday Favorite?
Homemade candy cane soap with essential oils is a popular and nourishing DIY project. It's a fun and affordable way to create a homemade Christmas gift, especially for loved ones. The soap features red and white layers and a refreshing peppermint fragrance, making it an ideal Christmas DIY present for those looking for a unique and enjoyable bathing experience.
Candy Cane Soap Ingredients You'll Need
Ready to whip up a festive treat for your skin? Let’s gather everything you need to make your own Candy Cane Soap at home!
Melt and Pour Method:
- 1/2 lb Goat's Milk Soap Base (cut into cubes)
- 1/2 lb Clear Soap Base (cut into cubes)
- Red Soap Colorant
- 3-5 drops of peppermint essential oil and candy cane fragrance oil
- Silicone Mini Loaf Soap Mold
- 2 Pyrex Measuring Cups
- 99% Isopropyl Alcohol in a Misting Spray Bottle
- Red Cosmetic Glitter and White Pearl Mica (optional)
Cold Process Method:
Oils:
- 200 grams of coconut oil
- 200 grams of palm oil
- 400 grams of olive oil
- 50 grams of shea butter
Lye and Water:
- 122 grams of sodium hydroxide (lye)
- 273 grams of distilled water
Fragrance and Color:
- 15 ml of peppermint essential oil
- 1 tsp D&C Red 7 Lake (mixed with oil)
- 3 tsp Titanium Dioxide (mixed with oil)
Step-by-Step Candy Cane Soap Recipe

Here are the steps to make a Candy Cane Soap using both melt-and-pour and cold process methods:
Melt and Pour Method
Step 1: Cut & Melt the Soap Base
Cut the goat milk and clear soap bases into cubes. Melt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted.
Step 2: Add Fragrance & Essential Oils
Add 3-5 drops of peppermint essential oil and/or candy cane fragrance oil. Stir well.
Step 3: Mix in Color
Add red soap colorant and optional red cosmetic glitter for a festive touch.
Step 4: Pour Into Molds & Let It Set
Spray mold with rubbing alcohol to avoid bubbles. Pour red soap, spray again, let set. Repeat with the white layer using white mica. Let cure overnight, then unmold and cut.
Cold Process Method
Step 1: Prepare Your Oils and Lye
Dissolve lye in water and let it cool. Melt oils together. Once both mixtures are around 40°C, combine them.
Step 2: Blend Until Trace
Mix until you reach a thick, pudding-like consistency (called trace).
Step 3: Add Fragrance, Essential Oils & Colors
Add your essential oils, red colorant, and white pigment and stir thoroughly.
Step 4: Pour, Texture, and Cure
Pour into molds, insulate, and allow to cure for 4–6 weeks.
Candy Cane Bath Bombs Recipe

This Candy Cane Bath Bomb DIY makes amazing Christmas gifts or self-care treats with crushed candy canes and peppermint oil.
Step-by-step Recipe:
- Crush 2–3 candy canes or 10 peppermint candies and set aside.
- Mix 1/2 cup baking soda, 1/4 cup citric acid, 1/4 cup Epsom salt, and 1/4 cup cornstarch.
- Combine 2 tbsp coconut oil, 10–15 drops peppermint oil, 1 tbsp water, 4–5 drops red color.
- Add wet to dry in batches. Mix until it clumps like damp sand.
- Add crushed candy to each side of your mold.
- Pack the bath bomb mixture tightly into the molds and press.
- Let set in molds for 8+ hours. Unmold gently by tapping.
- Let dry for 24 hours before wrapping or using.
Storing & Wrapping Your Homemade Candy Cane Soap
Ensure your soap is fully cured and hard. Wrap in plastic to prevent moisture. Use decorative paper or cellophane for gifting. Store in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
This festive DIY candy cane soap makes the perfect Christmas gift. Whether you prefer the melt-and-pour or cold process method, the peppermint scent and vibrant colors add holiday cheer. Try the bath bomb version too for a complete DIY holiday set!