If you have a soft spot for refreshing, minty treats that perfectly balance sweet and cool flavors, then you’re going to adore this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe. These delightful little confections combine a creamy peppermint filling with a rich chocolate coating, making them an irresistible treat for holidays, special occasions, or just whenever you want a little pick-me-up. They’re easy to whip up from simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, and the satisfying texture of these patties will have you sneaking back for just one more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the magic with this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe. Each one plays a key role, from creating that smooth, luscious filling to coating it in a glossy layer of chocolate perfection.
- Powdered sugar: This gives the patties their sweet base and delicate texture, blending smoothly with the other ingredients.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy richness, helping to bind the filling into a dough-like consistency that’s easy to shape.
- Peppermint extract: The star flavor that brings a cool, refreshing burst to each bite, perfectly balanced throughout the filling.
- Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate: Melts to a silky, robust coating that contrasts beautifully with the mint.
- Coconut oil or shortening (optional): Helps smooth the melted chocolate for an ultra-glossy finish and easier dipping.
- Sprinkles (optional): A fun way to add a festive touch and pop of color when you’re feeling playful.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Filling
Start by combining the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract in a large bowl. Stir them thoroughly until they form a thick dough-like mixture that feels just right for shaping. This is where your minty magic begins, and it’s incredibly satisfying to feel it come together.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Next, take small portions of your mint dough and roll them into balls. Then gently flatten each ball into a little disc on a parchment-lined baking sheet. These become the perfect bite-sized peppermint patties, so keep them uniform for even coating and setting.
Step 3: Chill the Patties
Place your shaped patties in the freezer for about 20 to 30 minutes. This step firms them up, making sure they hold their shape when you dip them in chocolate. It’s a crucial pause that promises beautiful, clean-coated treats at the end.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate Coating
While the patties chill, melt your chosen dark or semi-sweet chocolate along with the coconut oil in short 30-second bursts in the microwave. Stir between intervals until the mixture is perfectly smooth and glossy—this makes dipping easier and gives your patties a shiny, professional look.
Step 5: Coat the Peppermint Patties
Now for the fun part! Carefully dip each chilled patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered. Gently shake off any excess chocolate and place them back on the parchment paper. This is where your Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe starts looking like candy shop quality.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
If you want, sprinkle a few colorful sprinkles on top of the coated patties before the chocolate sets to add a festive flair. Then allow them to set at room temperature or pop them in the fridge until firm and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Garnishes
To make your peppermint patties even more inviting, consider dusting them lightly with edible glitter or crushed candy canes. A simple mint leaf on the side can also highlight the fresh flavor. These small touches can elevate the presentation, especially if you’re gifting or entertaining.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a hot cup of coffee or peppermint tea for a cozy treat. They also complement cheeseboards or dessert platters, especially when combined with other minty or chocolatey goodies to create a well-rounded flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday parties, arrange your Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe in mini cupcake liners or on decorative trays dusted with powdered sugar. Wrapping individual patties in wax paper or clear cellophane tied with a ribbon makes for adorable homemade gifts that everyone will cherish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if your house is warm. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe fresh for longer, wrapping them individually in parchment paper and storing in a freezer-safe container works wonderfully. They can be frozen for up to three months and thawed gently before serving.
Reheating
Since these patties are best enjoyed cool and firm, reheating isn’t recommended. Instead, let any thawed patties come to room temperature briefly if you find them too hard, allowing the chocolate to soften slightly without melting completely.
FAQs
Can I use a different extract instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! While peppermint is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, orange, or even almond extract to create your own unique twist.
What type of chocolate works best?
Dark or semi-sweet chocolate complements the mint perfectly, balancing sweetness and bitterness. However, milk chocolate is also an option if you prefer a creamier, sweeter coating.
Can I make these patties vegan?
With some ingredient swaps, yes. Use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative, vegan powdered sugar, and dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based version that’s just as delicious.
How long does it take to make these from start to finish?
The entire process typically takes about one hour, including chilling and setting time, making it a perfect project for a cozy afternoon or last-minute gift preparation.
Do I need special tools to make these patties?
No special tools are necessary! Just basic kitchen items like bowls, a baking sheet, parchment paper, and a microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate will do the trick.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is a delightful way to bring a burst of fresh, minty joy into your kitchen. It’s simple to make, fun to share, and offers a perfect balance of creamy filling and rich chocolate coating that everyone will love. You really can’t go wrong giving these a try—once they’re gone, you’ll be dreaming up your next batch!
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Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade peppermint patties are a delightful, minty treat coated in rich dark chocolate. Perfectly sweet with a refreshing peppermint flavor, they are easy to make and great for sharing during holidays or anytime you crave a cool, chocolatey candy.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 ¾ cups powdered sugar
- â…“ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Chocolate Coating
- 1 ½ cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional)
Optional
- Sprinkles (for decorating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Peppermint Dough: In a large bowl, combine the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract. Mix thoroughly until a thick, dough-like consistency forms that can be shaped.
- Shape the Patties: Roll the peppermint mixture into small balls, then flatten each into a disc shape. Arrange the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the Patties: Place the prepared patties in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes until they become firm and solid, which will make dipping in chocolate easier.
- Melt the Chocolate: Combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the mixture is completely smooth and melted.
- Dip the Patties: Remove the patties from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Gently shake off any excess chocolate and return the coated patties to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Decorate and Set: If desired, decorate the chocolate-coated patties with sprinkles while the chocolate is still wet. Let them set at room temperature, or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens and the patties are firm.
Notes
- For best results, use a good-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate for the coating.
- The optional coconut oil helps create a smoother, glossier chocolate dip but can be omitted if preferred.
- Store the peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and firm.
- If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, you may add an additional ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the dough.
- These patties can be kept at room temperature for a short time but are best served chilled.
