Name: Homemade Peppermint Patties for a Sweet Refreshing Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar (Essential for sweetness and texture.); 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Adds a rich chocolate flavor.); 2 tablespoons corn syrup (Helps bind the filling.); 1/8 teaspoon salt (Enhances flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (For minty flavor.); 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (Rich outer layer.); 1 tablespoon coconut oil (Optional for smoother coating.)

As I strolled through my favorite candy shop last week, a wave of nostalgia hit me. The sight of gleaming peppermint patties instantly transported me back to my childhood. There’s something so comforting about these Homemade Peppermint Patties that makes them the perfect treat to whip up in your own kitchen. Not only are these delightful morsels a healthier alternative to their store-bought cousins, but they also require minimal effort, making them a quick win for any home chef. Imagine impressing friends and family with these delightful, minty chocolates—they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering! Ready to bring a touch of nostalgia to your dessert table? Let’s dive into this simple yet delightful recipe for peppermint patties together!

Why Make Homemade Peppermint Patties?

Nostalgic treat: These homemade peppermint patties deliver that beloved candy shop flavor right in your kitchen!

Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a crowd-pleasing dessert without any fuss.

Healthier alternative: You control the ingredients, making these patties a refreshing treat without the guilt!

Versatile enjoyment: Perfect for parties, holidays, or as a sweet gift, these patties are sure to impress!

Delicious chocolate coating: The smooth chocolate dip adds a luxurious finish that elevates every bite.

Indulge in the sweet, minty goodness and share your homemade peppermint patties while they last!

Peppermint Patties Ingredients

Unleash your inner chocolatier with these delightful components!

For the Filling
• Powdered sugar – Essential for sweetness and creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds a rich chocolate flavor to balance the minty freshness.
• Corn syrup – Helps bind the filling for a chewy and smooth consistency.
• Salt – A pinch enhances the flavor and rounds out the sweetness.
• Peppermint extract – The star ingredient for that refreshing minty kick!

For the Coating
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Perfect for a rich, decadent outer layer that complements the filling beautifully.
• Coconut oil (optional) – A trick for a glossy and smoother chocolate coating; it helps chocolate adhere better to the patties.

With these ingredients at hand, you're just a few steps away from creating your own delightful peppermint patties!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder until fully blended. Ensure there are no clumps for a smooth texture. This chocolatey base is crucial for your peppermint patties, so take a moment to mix well.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients
Next, add 2 tablespoons of corn syrup, ⅛ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract to the dry mixture. Stir vigorously until the ingredients come together and form a dough-like consistency. If it feels too sticky, gradually incorporate more powdered sugar until you achieve the right texture.

Step 3: Knead the Dough
Lightly dust your work surface with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Turn the peppermint dough out onto the surface and gently knead it for about a minute, or until it becomes smooth and pliable. This step is essential for making your peppermint patties uniform in shape.

Step 4: Shape the Patties
Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a tablespoon, and roll each into a ball. Flatten each ball into a disk approximately ¼ inch thick. Aim for uniform discs to ensure even coating later on, giving your peppermint patties that signature look.

Step 5: Chill the Discs
Place the discs onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, keeping them spaced apart. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the disks chill for about 30 minutes. This will help solidify the filling of your peppermint patties and make them easier to dip in chocolate.

Step 6: Melt the Chocolate
While your peppermint discs chill, melt 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely smooth. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the chocolate for a glossy finish and smoother texture.

Step 7: Dip the Patties
Once the peppermint patties are firm, remove them from the freezer. Dip each disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing any excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. This step is what transforms them into delightful peppermint patties!

Step 8: Set on Baking Sheet
Return the coated peppermint patties to the parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint pieces on top before the chocolate sets. This adds an extra touch of flavor and a visually appealing finish to your homemade treats.

Step 9: Hardening Process
Refrigerate the peppermint patties for 20-30 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden completely. This is an essential step to ensure that your homemade peppermint patties hold their shape and that each bite is a sweet and refreshing experience.

Step 10: Store and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has set, your homemade peppermint patties are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures they stay fresh and delicious, ready to share or savor at your leisure.

Tips for the Best Peppermint Patties

Ingredient Measure: Use precise measurements for sugar and cocoa to ensure the perfect consistency for the filling. Too much cocoa can make the mixture dry.
Knead Gently: Kneading the dough just enough until smooth is key. Too much kneading may make the patties tough, while too little may keep them crumbly.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the 30 minutes in the freezer! This step is vital for firming up the filling, making dipping in chocolate easier and cleaner.
Chocolate Consistency: If the chocolate is too thick, your peppermint patties may not get a nice coat. The addition of coconut oil helps achieve that smooth, glossy finish.
Decorative Touch: For an eye-catching look, sprinkle crushed peppermint on top immediately after dipping, before the chocolate sets. This extra detail elevates the presentation!

Enjoy making your delightful peppermint patties with these helpful tips, and watch them disappear at any gathering!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Patties

Fridge: Store your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, place the peppermint patties in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let frozen peppermint patties thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Wrapping: If gifting or taking to a gathering, individually wrap each peppermint patty in plastic wrap or parchment paper for an appealing presentation!

Peppermint Patties Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your peppermint patties using these fun ideas that will elevate your homemade treat!

Dairy-Free: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dairy-free chocolate chips to create a delicious vegan version.
Nutty Crunch: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped almonds or pecans to the filling for an extra crunch that beautifully contrasts with the smooth chocolate.
Minty Twist: Experiment with flavors by adding a drop of anise or orange extract in place of peppermint for a unique take on the classic.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the filling. It adds a surprising but delightful warmth!
Coconut Dreams: Substitute the corn syrup with melted coconut cream or replace half the powdered sugar with shredded coconut for a tropical flavor boost.
Chocolate Drizzle: After the patties are dipped, drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a stunning presentation that adds a sweet contrast to the dark chocolate.
Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute designed for baking to make your peppermint patties healthier without compromising on taste.
Mini Patties: Create bite-sized treats by rolling the filling into smaller balls instead of discs. They make for fun, poppable snacks!

Feel encouraged to personalize these peppermint patties and make them your own! If you’re in the mood for some other delightful homemade sweets, you might also enjoy whipping up some Chocolate-Covered Pretzels or even Homemade Chocolate Truffles for a blissful dessert spread!

What to Serve with Homemade Peppermint Patties

Imagine indulging in these minty bites of bliss alongside delightful pairings that elevate your sweet experience!

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of creamy hot chocolate perfectly complements the refreshing mint in your peppermint patties, creating a cozy treat.
Chocolate Dipped Fruits: Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate are a lovely, sweet contrast to the peppermint flavor, adding fruity freshness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the cool mint, bringing a delightful balance to every bite.
Peppermint Tea: Enhance the minty profile with a soothing cup of peppermint tea. This refreshing drink will harmonize beautifully with your homemade candies.
Nutty Biscotti: Crunchy almond or hazelnut biscotti provide a satisfying texture and earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of the patties perfectly.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy finish, making each piece feel indulgent and generous.
Chocolate Martini: For an adult twist, sip on a chocolate martini as you enjoy the peppermint treats. The sweet and elegant cocktail perfectly matches the flavors.
Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies: Serve these alongside your patties for double mint delight! The chewy cookies with chunks of chocolate offer a delightful chewy texture contrast.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on your patties adds a decadent sweetness that enhances the flavor experience, perfect for those who love rich desserts.

Let these delightful pairings turn your peppermint patties into a memorable celebration of flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These homemade peppermint patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the filling and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance, simply store the formed discs in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Additionally, if you want to prep even further ahead, you can make the peppermint filling and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before shaping and dipping. Just be sure to bring the mixture back to room temperature before rolling it out. When ready to serve, dip the chilled patties into melted chocolate, allow them to set, and you'll have refreshing treats ready to impress with minimal effort!

Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right peppermint extract?
Absolutely! When selecting peppermint extract, look for clear, pure extracts without added sugars or artificial flavors. Check the ingredient list; the best extracts typically contain just peppermint oil and alcohol. If possible, go for a high-quality pure extract for a more intense flavor that will enhance the taste of your peppermint patties.

How should I store leftover peppermint patties?
Very good question! To keep your peppermint patties fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help them maintain their delicious mints for up to 2 weeks. For optimal enjoyment, simply take them out a few minutes before serving to let them come to room temperature, enhancing their delightful texture!

Can I freeze peppermint patties?
Definitely! Freezing is a great option if you want to enjoy your peppermint patties later. Lay the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for about 1 hour, then transfer them to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to indulge, simply move them to the fridge the night before to thaw!

What can I do if my chocolate coating is too thick?
If you find your chocolate coating too thick, no need to worry! The addition of 1 tablespoon of coconut oil while melting the chocolate can make all the difference, giving you that smooth, luxurious texture ideal for dipping. If you’ve already melted the chocolate, just add a bit more coconut oil, stir well, and microwave briefly on medium power for about 15 seconds, stirring until smooth.

Are peppermint patties safe for pets?
No, peppermint patties are not safe for pets! The chocolate and sugar content can be harmful to animals, particularly dogs. If you're looking for a special treat for your pet, consider homemade dog-friendly treats that use ingredients safe for them. Always consult your vet for the best options!

Can I customize the filling for my peppermint patties?
Absolutely! You can customize the filling by incorporating different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist. Additionally, mix in crushed nuts or coconut for added texture. Just be sure to maintain the base ingredients for stability. Get creative and have fun with it—your flavors can become a delightful surprise for anyone who tries your peppermint patties!