Description
Delight in these homemade Chocolate Mint Creams, featuring a smooth peppermint-flavored cream center coated in rich semisweet chocolate. These refreshing treats are perfect for mint chocolate lovers and are easy to prepare with simple ingredients and a bit of chilling time.
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Coating
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- Green food coloring (optional)
Peppermint Cream Center
Instructions
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips together with shortening in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in texture.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Stir the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate mixture until evenly incorporated for that classic minty flavor.
- Prepare the Peppermint Cream Center: In a separate bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, water, and a few drops of green food coloring if desired. Mix until the mixture is smooth and pliable, creating the base for the mint creams.
- Shape the Creams: Roll the peppermint cream mixture into small balls about one teaspoon each. Then flatten these balls into disc shapes. Place the discs on waxed paper and refrigerate them until firm and easy to handle, approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Coat with Chocolate: Using a fork, dip each chilled peppermint cream disc into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back onto the waxed paper to set.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the chocolate-coated creams until the chocolate hardens completely. Store finished chocolates in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and firmness before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer a more intense mint flavor, add an additional 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the cream center.
- Using shortening in the chocolate helps achieve a smooth, glossy coating that sets well.
- Chilling the cream centers before coating is crucial to prevent melting and ensure easy dipping.
- Green food coloring is optional but adds a festive touch to the creams.
- Store the finished chocolates in a cool place or refrigerator for up to two weeks for best taste and texture.
