Peppermint Patties

If you’re searching for a refreshingly sweet treat, look no further than Peppermint Patties. These delightful confections combine a smooth, minty center wrapped in rich chocolate, creating a balance of flavors that’s both cool and satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering, a comforting snack, or a homemade gift, Peppermint Patties offer an irresistible taste that everyone will love and crave. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
• Customizable flavors: Easily adapt the peppermint intensity or chocolate type to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for gifting: Handmade Peppermint Patties make thoughtful and delightful presents for friends and family.
• Refreshing taste: The cool mint combined with smooth chocolate creates a unique and refreshing treat.
• Great for any occasion: Whether holidays or everyday treats, these patties fit seamlessly into any celebration or snack time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a pantry full of special items for these Peppermint Patties. The ingredients are straightforward but essential, contributing to the perfect texture, sweet flavor, and vibrant minty freshness that define this classic treat.

• Powdered sugar: Provides the sweet base and firm structure for the peppermint filling.
• Butter: Adds smooth richness that balances the sugar’s sweetness.
• Peppermint extract: Delivers the unmistakable cool mint flavor with just a few drops.
• Condensed milk: Helps bind the filling and adds creaminess to each bite.
• Dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips: Creates the luscious coating that encases the peppermint filling perfectly.
• Vegetable shortening (optional): Used to thin the melted chocolate for easier dipping and a glossy finish.

Variations for Peppermint Patties

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can easily adjust ingredients or mix up flavors to suit dietary needs or your personal taste, making these peppermint patties your own.

• Vegan version: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a plant-based treat.
• Sugar-free option: Swap powdered sugar for a sugar substitute like erythritol to reduce sweetness without missing the flavor.
• Flavor twists: Add a hint of vanilla or citrus zest to the peppermint filling for a subtle flavor boost.
• Chocolate variety: Use white chocolate or milk chocolate coatings for different taste and presentation.
• Spicy kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne into the chocolate coating for a surprising and warm contrast to the mint.

How to Make Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and condensed milk. Stir vigorously until smooth and pliable, creating a dough-like peppermint filling that’s easy to shape.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the filling into small, round or oval shapes about the size of a tablespoon. Place them on parchment-lined baking sheets and chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes or until they hold their shape.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Gently melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning. If desired, add a small amount of vegetable shortening to thin the chocolate for smoother dipping.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully coat each chilled peppermint patty in the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place dipped patties back onto parchment paper to set.

Step 5: Set and Serve

Allow the chocolate coating to harden at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating the patties for 15 minutes. Once firm, your Peppermint Patties are ready to enjoy or package as gifts.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Patties

• Use fresh peppermint extract: Quality extract makes a noticeable difference in flavor intensity.
• Chill the filling thoroughly: Well-chilled filling prevents melting during the dipping process.
• Melt chocolate gently: Avoid overheating to keep the chocolate smooth and shiny.
• Work quickly: Chocolate can harden fast, so dip all patties in one session for even coating.
• Store airtight: Keep patties fresh and prevent them from absorbing fridge odors.

How to Serve Peppermint Patties

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy or edible silver glitter on the wet chocolate coating before it sets. A dusting of cocoa powder or finely chopped nuts also adds visual appeal and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these peppermint treats with a cup of rich hot chocolate, freshly brewed coffee, or a refreshing herbal tea to complement their cool mint and sweet chocolate taste.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange Peppermint Patties on decorative plates, line them in mini cupcake liners, or stack in clear jars with festive ribbons for beautiful presentation—perfect for parties or gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Peppermint Patties in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if your environment is warm, keeping them fresh for up to two weeks.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat frozen Peppermint Patties by thawing them in the refrigerator overnight or bringing them to room temperature before serving to retain their texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use natural peppermint flavor instead of extract?

Natural peppermint flavor can be used, but it may require adjustments in quantity since it’s typically less concentrated than extract.

Is it necessary to use condensed milk in the filling?

Condensed milk adds creaminess and helps bind the filling, but you can experiment with alternatives like cream cheese or coconut cream for different results.

How do I prevent the chocolate from melting during dipping?

Keep the filling well-chilled and dip quickly to minimize melting. Working in a cool environment also helps maintain chocolate consistency.

Can I make these peppermint patties nut-free?

Absolutely! The basic recipe is naturally nut-free unless you add garnishes or variations that include nuts.

What is the best chocolate to use for coating?

High-quality dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate works best, depending on your taste preference and the desired flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Peppermint Patties—the satisfying snap of chocolate combined with the cool, sweet mint inside is pure joy. Whether you make these for yourself, friends, or festive celebrations, they are sure to become a favorite treat everyone reaches for. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every delicious bite!

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