Peppermint Patties Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love that refreshing burst of mint paired with rich chocolate, this Peppermint Patties Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint centers enveloped by a smooth, glossy dark chocolate shell that gives just the right amount of snap. Perfectly balanced between sweet and cool, these homemade peppermint patties are simple enough to whip up in no time, yet impressive enough to share with friends and family during the holidays or whenever you crave a delightful treat. Trust me, once you try this Peppermint Patties Recipe, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Peppermint Patties Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role to create the perfect texture and flavor harmony. From creamy condensed milk to the vibrant peppermint extract and luscious chocolate, every component is essential.

• 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk: This provides the creamy base that binds everything together and adds a rich sweetness.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons peppermint extract (or more to taste): The star flavor that brings that unmistakable refreshing kick.
• 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the peppermint beautifully.
• 4 3/4 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for sprinkling): Critical for texture, it helps transform the mixture into a smooth, pliable dough.
• 3 cups dark chocolate candy melts (such as Ghirardelli): Creates the decadent chocolate coating with a rich, bittersweet depth.
• 1/2 cup holiday sprinkles: For a festive pop of color and crunch that finishes each patty perfectly.

How to Make Peppermint Patties Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Base Dough

Start by placing the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract in your mixer’s bowl. Begin beating on a low speed while adding half of the powdered sugar. This gentle mixing ensures the flavors blend smoothly without dusting your kitchen with sugar clouds.

Step 2: Form the Peppermint Dough

Gradually incorporate the remaining powdered sugar, beating until a smooth dough forms. The texture should be just right so that you can pinch off a piece and roll it into a ball that holds its shape. If it’s too sticky, add powdered sugar a tablespoon at a time; if too dry or crumbly, a teaspoon of water will bring it back to life. This step ensures your peppermint filling will be perfectly firm yet creamy.

Step 3: Roll and Cut the Peppermint Circles

Dust parchment paper with powdered sugar, then place the dough on top and sprinkle some on the surface as well. Roll it out evenly to about ½ inch thickness. Coat a 1 or 1½ inch round cookie cutter with cooking spray to prevent sticking, and cut out circles from the dough. If the dough resists cutting, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes to firm up, making slicing easy and clean.

Step 4: Chill the Peppermint Patties

Transfer your neat little peppermint rounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them loosely and freeze for about 20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial—it firms the centers so they hold their shape when dipped in chocolate without melting or breaking apart.

Step 5: Melt the Chocolate

Place your dark chocolate candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until silky smooth. The chocolate melts will form the luscious coating that contrasts beautifully with the cool peppermint centers.

Step 6: Dip and Decorate

Using a fork, dip each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Set them onto fresh parchment paper immediately, then sprinkle with holiday sprinkles before the chocolate sets. This adds a festive touch and a little texture crunch.

Step 7: Chill and Store

Allow the patties to cool completely until the chocolate coating hardens—refrigerating them speeds this process up. Once set, store your peppermint patties in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and delicious.

How to Serve Peppermint Patties Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond the festive sprinkles, you can also dust the patties with finely crushed candy canes or drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an elegant look. Fresh mint leaves on the serving plate will add a refreshing aroma to entice guests even more.

Side Dishes

Peppermint patties make a fabulous companion to a cup of rich hot chocolate or a robust espresso. Their cool mint flavor balances beautifully with warm, comforting drinks, making them the perfect after-dinner treat or coffee break indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking peppermint patties in clear glass jars tied with festive ribbon for a charming gift idea. Alternatively, arrange them on a decorative plate alongside assorted chocolates and nuts for an irresistible candy board at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their freshness and firmness. Proper storage will maintain their delicious texture for up to two weeks, so you can enjoy them little by little without worry.

Freezing

For longer storage, peppermint patties freeze beautifully. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container or zip-top bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving to keep the chocolate shell intact.

Reheating

These patties are best served cool, so reheating isn’t necessary or recommended. If the chocolate shell softens too much after thawing or refrigeration, simply return them to the fridge to firm back up before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use fresh peppermint instead of peppermint extract?

Fresh peppermint leaves won’t provide the same concentrated flavor or the cooling effect that peppermint extract does. For authentic flavor in this Peppermint Patties Recipe, the extract is your best bet.

What if I don’t have candy melts? Can I use regular chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use regular dark chocolate chips or bars—just melt them gently using a double boiler or the microwave. Candy melts are convenient and designed for dipping, but good-quality chocolate will work just as well.

How do I prevent the peppermint patties from melting while dipping in chocolate?

Chilling the patties before dipping is key. Freezing them for 20 minutes firms up the centers so they hold their shape during dipping and setting, giving you that perfect clean finish.

Is it possible to make these patties vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe relies on sweetened condensed milk for its creamy texture, which is dairy-based. For a dairy-free version, you’d need to substitute with a plant-based condensed milk alternative and ensure your chocolate and sugar are vegan friendly, though the texture might vary.

Can I adjust the peppermint flavor intensity?

Definitely! Start with 1 1/4 teaspoons of peppermint extract as called for, then taste the dough. If you want a stronger minty punch, gradually add more, a few drops at a time, until it’s just right for your palate.

Final Thoughts

This Peppermint Patties Recipe is such a delightful treat that combines fresh mint flavor with creamy indulgence and rich chocolate, making it a standout sweet for any occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—its simple ingredients and steps yield an impressive homemade candy that’s sure to bring smiles. Once you experience these refreshing, elegant patties, you’ll see why they’re a beloved classic worth making again and again.

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