If you have a sweet tooth and a love for refreshing minty treats, this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is an absolute delight you have to try. These little gems combine the cool, crisp flavor of peppermint with the richness of dark chocolate, making them perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply treating yourself at home. They are surprisingly easy to make yet feel so indulgent, capturing the nostalgic joy of those classic peppermint candies with a homemade twist that’s sure to impress everyone who tries them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role in balancing flavors and textures, resulting in a silky smooth filling wrapped in luscious chocolate. From the sweetness of powdered sugar to the distinctive coolness of peppermint extract, these components work together harmoniously to create a treat that’s both refreshing and decadent.
- Powdered sugar: Provides the perfect sweet base and smooth texture for the minty filling.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a creamy mouthfeel to keep the patties smooth and luscious.
- Peppermint extract: The star flavor that infuses the patties with their signature crisp minty zing.
- Cream: Softens the filling, helping it hold together without becoming dry or crumbly.
- Dark chocolate: Offers a rich, slightly bitter contrast that complements and balances the sweet mint filling perfectly.
- Vegetable shortening: Helps the chocolate coating stay smooth and glossy after dipping.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Step 1: Create the Minty Filling
Start by combining powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, peppermint extract, and cream in a large bowl. Stir everything together until you form a smooth, pliable dough. This mixture is the heart of your peppermint patties, so getting it silky smooth will help give your patties a perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. The peppermint extract adds that refreshing coolness that makes these patties feel like a winter wonderland for your tastebuds.
Step 2: Shape and Freeze the Patties
Dust your work surface with some powdered sugar to keep things from sticking, then roll out the mint mixture evenly. Use a round cutter or a small cup to cut out circular discs. Place these carefully on a baking sheet lined with parchment, then pop them into the freezer. Freezing helps the patties set and makes them easier to dip without losing their shape. Patience here will really pay off!
Step 3: Dip in Chocolate and Set
Melt the dark chocolate along with the vegetable shortening in a double boiler or microwave, stirring frequently to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. The shortening plays a crucial role in helping the chocolate coat the patties evenly and harden with a beautiful sheen. Take each frozen peppermint disc and dip it fully into the chocolate, then return it to the parchment-lined tray. Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once firm, your homemade peppermint patties are ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle crushed candy canes or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top of the chocolate before it sets. This not only adds a festive flair but also enhances the mint flavor, making each bite feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve these peppermint patties alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a rich mug of hot chocolate. The warmth of the drink perfectly balances the cool peppermint and the bittersweet chocolate, creating a cozy moment of pure indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Package your peppermint patties in small gift boxes lined with parchment paper for a charming homemade gift. Alternatively, arrange them on a festive platter with fresh mint leaves and a few chocolate shavings to impress guests at your next holiday party or special gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their fresh flavor and texture. Avoid humid places to prevent the chocolate from blooming or softening.
Freezing
You can freeze peppermint patties for longer storage by placing them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray, freezing until solid, then transferring them to a sealed container or freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat these patties—they are best served chilled or at room temperature. If the chocolate hardens too much, simply let them sit out a few minutes to soften slightly for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate for the coating?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate or white chocolate can be used instead of dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, creamier experience. Just keep an eye on melting temperatures to avoid scorching the chocolate.
Is there a substitute for vegetable shortening?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or cocoa butter to help achieve the same smooth dipping texture. Just be aware that these alternatives might slightly change the flavor or firmness of the coating.
How strong is the peppermint flavor in these patties?
The peppermint extract provides a bright and refreshing kick, but if you love your peppermint extra strong, feel free to add a bit more extract to the filling. Just be careful not to overpower the balance of sweetness.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based spread and use dairy-free cream alternatives. Also, choose vegan chocolate for dipping. This way, you can enjoy the same minty indulgence with your dietary preferences in mind.
How do I prevent the peppermint filling from sticking?
Dust your work surface generously with powdered sugar before rolling out the dough. This creates a non-stick surface and makes cutting the patties easier, helping them keep their shape perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making your own peppermint treats, and this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is a wonderful way to bring joy to your kitchen and your palate. Whether for holiday celebrations or a fun DIY snack, these patties not only look impressive but taste like a little winter wonderland in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try making them—it’s a sweet adventure worth every moment!
Print
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful minty confection featuring a creamy peppermint filling covered in rich dark chocolate. Perfect for holiday treats or anytime you crave a refreshing, sweet mint bite.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
- 2 tablespoons cream
Coating
- 12 oz. dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and cream. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and pliable, ensuring the peppermint flavor is evenly distributed.
- Shape the patties: Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar. Roll out the peppermint mixture to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, cut the dough into small rounds. Place the rounds on a baking sheet and freeze for about 15-20 minutes until firm.
- Melt the chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate along with the vegetable shortening. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and shiny, which helps with coating and setting.
- Coat the peppermint patties: Using forks or dipping tools, dip each frozen peppermint disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Place the coated patties on parchment paper to set. Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
Notes
- Use full-fat cream for a richer filling texture.
- Vegetable shortening helps the chocolate coating to harden smoothly and avoid streaking.
- Store the peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- For a stronger peppermint flavor, adjust peppermint extract slightly to taste.
- Ensure the patties are frozen before dipping to prevent melting of the filling in the chocolate.
