If you’ve ever craved a minty, chocolatey treat that feels like a burst of holiday magic in every bite, then you’re going to adore this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe. These little delights combine a creamy, cool peppermint center enrobed in rich, glossy dark chocolate, creating the perfect balance that freshens your palate and satisfies your sweet tooth. Whether you’re gifting them during the holidays or simply want a refreshing homemade treat, this recipe is straightforward, fun, and incredibly rewarding to make from scratch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these peppermint patties just right depends on simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one brings a special quality that enhances the flavor, texture, or appearance of the final product, making this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe truly shine.
- 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar: This ensures the center is sweet and smooth with no graininess.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Adds creaminess and a subtle richness to the filling.
- 2 teaspoons peppermint extract: Packs that fresh, invigorating mint flavor essential for the patties.
- 2 tablespoons cream: Helps bind the filling and gives it a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 12 oz. dark chocolate, chopped: For the rich, slightly bitter chocolate coating that perfectly complements the cool mint inside.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable shortening: Smooths out the chocolate when melted, giving it a shiny finish and great snap once set.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Peppermint Filling
Begin by combining the powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and cream in a large bowl. Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until the texture is smooth and pliable. This step is key for developing that velvety, melt-in-your-mouth filling that defines the patties. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid any lumps.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Patties
Lightly dust your working surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then roll out the peppermint mixture to about 1/4-inch thickness. Using a small round cutter, cut out perfect little disks. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and pop them into the freezer to firm up. This chilling step helps them hold their shape when dipped in chocolate, so don’t skip it!
Step 3: Dip in Chocolate Coating
While your peppermint disks chill, melt the dark chocolate and vegetable shortening together over a double boiler or gently in a microwave, stirring frequently to keep it smooth. Once melted, use a fork or dipping tool to dip each frozen peppermint disk into the chocolate, fully coating it. Let the excess drip off, then transfer to parchment paper to set. After a few minutes, you’ll have glossy, irresistible peppermint patties that look just as good as they taste.
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Garnishes
To add a festive touch, try sprinkling crushed candy canes or edible silver glitter on top of the chocolate before it sets. This gives the patties a sparkling, holiday sparkle that’s as fun to look at as it is to eat.
Side Dishes
While these peppermint patties shine beautifully on their own, they also pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, peppermint tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. Their refreshing flavor offers a nice balance after a rich meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking your homemade peppermint patties in a cute jar tied with ribbon for gifting. Or arrange them on a decorative platter alongside other homemade candies for a dazzling dessert table display. Adding colorful cupcake liners can also make each patty feel like a little homemade treasure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your leftover peppermint patties fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure they’re kept in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting or the peppermint centers from drying out.
Freezing
Want to make these ahead for the holidays or keep them longer? Freeze your peppermint patties in a single layer on parchment paper, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Since these patties are best served cool, reheating isn’t necessary. However, if the chocolate looks dull due to storage, letting them sit at room temperature for 15 minutes can bring back their lovely sheen. Avoid warmth or heat sources that might melt the chocolate coating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chocolate for the coating?
Absolutely! While dark chocolate offers a perfect balance to the sweet, minty filling, you can also use milk or white chocolate depending on your taste preference. Just keep in mind that white chocolate may be sweeter, so it changes the flavor profile slightly.
Is peppermint extract the same as peppermint oil?
Not quite. Peppermint extract is alcohol-based and typically used for flavoring food, whereas peppermint oil is much more concentrated and can be overpowering. Stick with peppermint extract for this recipe to get that perfect minty flavor.
Why do I need to add vegetable shortening when melting chocolate?
Vegetable shortening helps thin out the chocolate, making it smoother and shinier when it sets. It also helps the coating firm up with a nice snap, which is what you want in a quality peppermint patty.
Can I make these vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a non-dairy cream like coconut cream. Just make sure your chocolate and other ingredients are also dairy-free to keep it fully vegan-friendly.
How long does it take for the chocolate coating to set?
Typically, the chocolate will set within 15 to 20 minutes if left at room temperature. To speed up the process, you can place the dipped patties in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes. Just don’t leave them too long or condensation might form.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe because it really is one of those classic treats that feels special every time you bite into it. The combo of peppermint freshness and deep dark chocolate is truly irresistible, and making them yourself is both satisfying and fun. Whether you’re sharing with friends, gifting for the holidays, or just treating yourself, these patties are sure to become a beloved favorite. Happy dipping!
Print
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 patties
- Category: Confectionery
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Homemade Peppermint Patties feature a smooth, creamy peppermint filling enrobed in rich dark chocolate. Perfect for festive treats or gifting, they are made with simple ingredients and come together quickly with no baking required.
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 the powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, peppermint extract, and cream. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy peppermint paste.
- Shape and chill: Lightly dust a clean surface with powdered sugar and roll out the peppermint mixture evenly. Using a round cutter, cut the mixture into small rounds. Place these peppermint disks on a tray and freeze them until firm, which helps them hold their shape for dipping.
- Melt the chocolate coating: In a heat-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate along with the vegetable shortening. Stir continuously until smooth and glossy, ensuring the chocolate is evenly melted and tempered for dipping.
- Dip and set: Remove the frozen peppermint disks from the freezer one at a time, dip each into the melted chocolate coating to fully cover them, and place on parchment paper to set. Allow the chocolate to harden at room temperature or in the fridge before serving or storing.
Notes
- Ensure the peppermint filling is cold and firm before dipping to prevent melting and maintain the shape.
- You can substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate if desired, but dark chocolate provides a balancing bitterness.
- Store the peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
- For extra flair, drizzle melted white chocolate over the set patties as decoration.
