Looking for a refreshing treat to satisfy your sweet tooth? Homemade peppermint patties are the perfect combination of smooth, creamy mint filling coated in rich, dark chocolate. Not only are they delicious, but they’re incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a homemade gift, or simply craving a minty indulgence, these peppermint patties will hit the spot.
Why Make Homemade Peppermint Patties?
Store-bought peppermint patties can be loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients, but making them at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients. Plus, the homemade version is often more flavorful! Here are a few reasons why you should try this recipe:
- Customizable: Adjust the mint flavor to your liking – from subtle to strong.
- Quality Ingredients: Use natural, high-quality chocolate and peppermint oil for an authentic taste.
- Fun and Simple: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this treat in no time.
- Giftable: Wrapped in a festive box or tin, they make the perfect homemade gift.
Ingredients for Homemade Peppermint Patties
For this easy recipe, you’ll need just a handful of ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (or peppermint oil)
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 ½ cups dark chocolate chips (or your favorite chocolate)
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil or vegetable oil (for smooth chocolate coating)
Instructions: How to Make Peppermint Patties
- Prepare the Peppermint Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and milk. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, thick dough. If the mixture is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until it’s easy to handle.
- Shape the Patties: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, then flatten them into discs. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter. Place the discs onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once all patties are shaped, place them in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making the coating process easier.
- Melt the Chocolate: While the patties are chilling, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil (or vegetable oil) in a heatproof bowl. You can do this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, or over a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Coat the Patties: Remove the chilled peppermint patties from the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap the fork gently on the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate and place the coated patties back on the parchment paper.
- Let Them Set: Allow the chocolate coating to set by placing the patties back in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes. The chocolate should harden to a glossy finish, making the patties look as good as they taste!
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the peppermint patties are set, serve them chilled for the perfect minty, chocolatey bite.
Tips for Perfect Peppermint Patties
- Adjust the Mint Flavor: If you prefer a milder mint flavor, reduce the amount of peppermint extract. For an extra minty kick, add a few more drops.
- Use Quality Chocolate: Dark chocolate is ideal for a rich, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet, minty filling, but you can also use milk chocolate for a sweeter version.
- Customize Coatings: For a unique twist, you can roll the peppermint patties in crushed candy canes or add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
How to Store Homemade Peppermint Patties
Once your peppermint patties have set, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
Why You’ll Love These Homemade Peppermint Patties
Homemade peppermint patties are a perfect treat to enjoy with family and friends. Their creamy mint center and chocolate coating make them a refreshing dessert or snack. You can enjoy them year-round, but they’re especially festive around the holidays when paired with a hot cup of cocoa or wrapped as a gift.
Whether you’re craving a chocolate mint indulgence or looking to impress your guests with a homemade treat, this peppermint patty recipe is sure to be a hit!
Make your own peppermint patties today, and discover the joy of homemade, refreshing minty goodness.
Serving and Storage Tips for Homemade Peppermint Patties
Serving Tips:
- Chilled for the Best Flavor: Peppermint patties are best served chilled. The cool minty filling combined with the crisp chocolate coating offers the perfect refreshing bite. Keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
- Pair with Beverages: These treats are wonderful with a variety of drinks:
- Hot Chocolate: The combination of peppermint and chocolate pairs perfectly with a warm mug of cocoa, especially during the holiday season.
- Coffee or Tea: Peppermint patties are a delightful complement to a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing tea.
- Milk: For a simple, classic pairing, serve them alongside a glass of cold milk.
- Gift Presentation: These peppermint patties make excellent homemade gifts. Place them in decorative boxes, tins, or clear bags with festive ribbons. They’re a thoughtful treat for the holidays or any special occasion.
- As a Party Snack: Arrange your peppermint patties on a serving platter with other holiday treats or desserts. They’ll be a crowd favorite!
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: After the chocolate coating has set, store your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Keeping them cold ensures the mint filling stays firm and the chocolate remains smooth.
- Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, peppermint patties freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When frozen, they can last up to 3 months. Simply thaw them in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
- Avoid Sticking: If storing in layers, be sure to separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent the patties from sticking together. This also helps when storing multiple batches.
- Room Temperature: While refrigeration is ideal for keeping the chocolate firm, you can leave peppermint patties at room temperature for a short period of time, such as for serving at a party. However, they should not be kept out for more than a few hours to maintain their texture.
By following these storage and serving tips, you’ll be able to keep your homemade peppermint patties fresh and ready for enjoyment whenever you crave a sweet, minty treat!
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for the coating?
Yes, you can! While dark chocolate is traditional for peppermint patties, milk chocolate will give a sweeter, creamier flavor. Choose whichever type of chocolate you prefer or have on hand.
2. How long do homemade peppermint patties last?
Homemade peppermint patties will last up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you’d like to store them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make the peppermint filling without butter?
Yes, you can make the peppermint filling dairy-free by using a dairy-free butter substitute or coconut oil. The texture may be slightly different, but the minty flavor will still shine through.
4. How can I make my peppermint patties extra festive?
To make your peppermint patties more festive, try rolling them in crushed candy canes or sprinkling them with sea salt before the chocolate coating sets. You can also use white chocolate for the coating or drizzle it on top for a fun decorative touch!
Homemade Peppermint Patties
These creamy and minty homemade peppermint patties are the perfect treat! With a refreshing peppermint filling coated in rich chocolate, they’re easy to make and taste even better than store-bought. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or whenever you need a cool and sweet indulgence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 20–25 patties 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Instructions
- Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a smooth, pliable dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more powdered sugar until it holds its shape. - Form the Patties:
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and flatten them gently into disc shapes. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze the discs for 20-30 minutes until firm. - Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler. - Coat the Patties:
Using a fork, dip each peppermint disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Gently tap off the excess chocolate and place the coated patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. - Set the Chocolate:
Refrigerate the patties for 20-30 minutes or until the chocolate is set. - Serve and Store:
Enjoy your peppermint patties immediately or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- For a festive look, drizzle the coated patties with white chocolate or sprinkle with crushed candy canes before the chocolate sets.
- Adjust the peppermint extract to taste, starting with 1 tsp if you prefer a milder mint flavor.