Homemade Peppermint Patties

There’s something utterly irresistible about peppermint patties, right? That perfect balance of cool mint wrapped in rich chocolate is a classic treat that always hits the spot. But here’s the kicker: making them at home is easier than you might think! Imagine biting into a smooth, creamy center of peppermint, coated in rich, glossy chocolate—all made with your own two hands. Trust me, once you make these homemade peppermint patties, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought ones again. They’re a total game-changer, and you’ll be so proud to share them with friends and family!

Why You’ll Love Homemade Peppermint Patties

This recipe is all about simplicity and indulgence, and it’s sure to become a favorite treat in your household. Here’s why it’s so great:

• Versatile: Perfect for holiday gifts, a special treat for yourself, or a party snack. These peppermint patties are versatile enough to fit any occasion, making them a perfect addition to your dessert lineup.
• Budget-Friendly: You don’t need to splurge on fancy ingredients to make these! Just a handful of pantry staples will give you a batch of minty, chocolatey bliss.
• Quick and Easy: No complicated steps here! These peppermint patties are so simple to make, and they come together in no time. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is foolproof.
• Customizable: Want to change up the flavor? Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate or add a pinch of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost. You can even adjust the peppermint intensity to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleasing: People of all ages love a good peppermint patty, and this homemade version will have everyone asking for the recipe. They’re the perfect treat to share with family, friends, or coworkers.

Ingredients

Here’s the magic behind these homemade peppermint patties. Let’s break it down:

Powdered Sugar: This is the base of the creamy filling. It gives the peppermint center that perfect smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Peppermint Extract: The star of the show! Peppermint extract adds that cool, refreshing flavor that makes these patties stand out. Be sure to use pure extract for the best taste!

Sweetened Condensed Milk: This helps bind the ingredients together and creates that creamy, soft center that’s oh-so-satisfying.

Chocolate (Dark or Milk): Choose your favorite chocolate to coat the patties. Dark chocolate gives them a rich, intense flavor, while milk chocolate provides a sweeter, smoother taste.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make these melt-in-your-mouth peppermint patties? Let’s get started:

Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract. Stir until smooth and thick. The texture should be slightly stiff, but still pliable enough to form into patties.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Take small spoonfuls of the peppermint mixture and roll them into balls, then flatten them into small, round discs. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. You should aim for about a 1-inch diameter per patty.

Step 3: Chill the Patties

Pop the patties in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This step is important because it helps the patties hold their shape when you coat them with chocolate.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

While the patties are chilling, melt your chocolate. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts, stirring every 20 seconds, or over a double boiler on the stovetop. Make sure the chocolate is smooth and glossy.

Step 5: Coat the Patties

Once the patties have chilled, dip each one into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully coated. Use a fork or a toothpick to lift them out of the chocolate and place them back onto the parchment paper. Repeat with each patty.

Step 6: Let the Chocolate Set

Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature, or speed up the process by placing the patties in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has set, your homemade peppermint patties are ready to enjoy! Serve them chilled for the best texture and flavor, and watch them disappear in no time.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 150

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties

These peppermint patties are already perfect as-is, but here are a few ways to elevate the experience:

• Gift Them: Wrap them in a cute box or tin and give them as gifts. They’re an easy, thoughtful homemade present that’s perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: The refreshing peppermint flavor is a delightful match for a warm cup of coffee or tea. Perfect for an after-dinner treat!
• As a Party Snack: Set out a platter of these peppermint patties at your next gathering. They’re sure to be a hit, and they’re easy to grab and go.
• Chill for a Cool Treat: For an extra refreshing bite, store the patties in the fridge and serve them chilled on a hot day.

Presentation Tip: Arrange the peppermint patties in a decorative bowl or platter and garnish with a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

• Chill the Filling: If the peppermint filling feels too soft to shape, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes to make it easier to work with.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate coating is just as important as the filling! Choose a good-quality chocolate bar (either dark or milk) for the best flavor and texture.
• Make Ahead: These peppermint patties can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
• Play with Flavors: Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel twist, or experiment with different extracts like chocolate mint for a new spin on the classic.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use white chocolate instead of dark or milk chocolate?
A1: Absolutely! White chocolate will give the patties a sweeter, creamier flavor. Just be sure to melt it slowly and stir frequently to avoid burning.

Q2: Can I make these peppermint patties without sweetened condensed milk?
A2: Yes! If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can use coconut condensed milk or regular milk and increase the powdered sugar to achieve the same consistency.

Q3: How do I store these peppermint patties?
A3: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They can also be kept at room temperature, but they’ll stay firmer and fresher if kept chilled.

Q4: Can I freeze homemade peppermint patties?
A4: Yes, peppermint patties freeze beautifully! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep for up to three months in the freezer.

Q5: How do I melt the chocolate without burning it?
A5: If using the microwave, heat the chocolate in short 20-second bursts, stirring in between. If using a double boiler, keep the heat low and stir frequently.

Q6: Can I make the peppermint filling ahead of time?
A6: Yes! You can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for a day or two before shaping and coating the patties.

Q7: How can I make the mint flavor stronger?
A7: Add a little more peppermint extract to the filling if you like a more intense mint flavor. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as the extract can become overpowering.

Q8: Can I add food coloring to the filling?
A8: Of course! You can add a few drops of green food coloring to the filling to give your peppermint patties a festive look, especially around the holidays.

Q9: Can I use candy melts instead of regular chocolate?
A9: Yes, candy melts will work just fine for coating. They melt easily and create a smooth, glossy finish on the patties.

Q10: How can I make these peppermint patties dairy-free?
A10: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut condensed milk in place of regular condensed milk. This way, you’ll have a delicious dairy-free version of the treat!

Conclusion

Making homemade peppermint patties is an absolute treat (pun intended)! With their creamy, minty centers and luscious chocolate coating, these are the perfect snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging in them yourself or gifting them to someone special, these peppermint patties will always hit the spot. Easy to make, customizable, and full of that signature mint-chocolate goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So, go ahead and give them a try—you’re going to love them!

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