There’s something truly festive about gathering in the kitchen, especially when the air is filled with the sweet aroma of chocolate and mint. I was inspired to whip up these creamy homemade peppermint patties after reminiscing about childhood holidays spent with loved ones, indulging in delightful treats that never failed to bring smiles. This no-bake recipe is not only simple and fun to make, but it also results in charming bites of minty nostalgia wrapped in luscious chocolate.
Perfect for gift-giving, these homemade peppermint patties elevate any holiday gathering with their festive flair. Imagine presenting a beautifully packaged box of these minty delights to friends and family, each bite melting effortlessly in your mouth. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this homemade peppermint patties recipe ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and utterly irresistible!
Why you’ll love Homemade Peppermint Patties?
Irresistible flavor: The perfect blend of cool peppermint and rich chocolate creates a nostalgic treat that everyone loves.
No-bake convenience: Enjoy a delightful dessert that requires no oven, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun!
Gift-friendly: Ideal for holiday gifting, these lovely treats can be beautifully packaged for friends and family.
Quick preparation: With simple steps, you’ll have these delectable patties ready in no time, perfect for last-minute celebrations.
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: Each bite offers a creamy center surrounded by glossy chocolate, making them an instant favorite.
Versatile treats: Adjust the size or toppings to suit any occasion, ensuring your peppermint patties stand out!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Ingredients
For the Filling
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds sweetness and creaminess; for a richer flavor, consider using homemade sweetened condensed milk.
- Peppermint Extract – Provides the refreshing mint flavor; if you prefer a stronger taste, swap it for peppermint oil, adjusting the amount to your liking.
- Powdered Sugar – Creates structure and sweetness; keep extra on hand as you may need more for kneading the dough.
For the Coating
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Forms the rich chocolate coating; for a bolder flavor, try using dark chocolate instead.
- Shortening – Helps achieve a smooth chocolate dip; coconut oil can be a delightful alternative for a unique flavor.
For the Decoration
- Sprinkles (optional) – Adds a festive touch for decoration; choose your favorite colors to match the occasion!
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract. Gradually stir in powdered sugar until a thick, pliable dough forms. Aim for a consistency that holds together well.
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Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a surface dusted with powdered sugar. Knead it gently until smooth and no longer sticky to the touch. This will ensure a perfect texture for cutting!
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Shape the Patties: Roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out small circles and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, setting them apart for a bit of space.
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Dry the Patties: Allow the patties to dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours, flipping them halfway through to ensure even drying. This helps achieve a firm texture.
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Melt and Dip: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Dip each patty into the chocolate, ensuring full coverage, and let any excess drip off.
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Decorate: While the chocolate is still wet, feel free to sprinkle decorations on top for a touch of festive flair. Get creative with colors and designs!
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Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving. They’re best enjoyed once the chocolate is firm!
Optional: For a gourmet touch, drizzle additional melted chocolate on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Homemade Peppermint Patties
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful treats to suit your taste and preferences!
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Dairy-Free: Replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and adjust sweetness to taste for a delightful non-dairy alternative.
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Classic Minty: Enhance the mint flavor by mixing in a few drops of peppermint oil alongside the extract; just be cautious with the quantity for balance.
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Chocolate Mint: Swap regular peppermint extract for chocolate mint extract for an extra layer of flavor that chocolate lovers will savor.
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Flavorful Twists: Try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the dough to create a warm, vanilla undertone that complements the mint beautifully.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in finely chopped walnuts or almonds into the filling for a delightful nutty texture that adds an unexpected crunch.
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Spicy Kick: For adventurous palates, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate coating for a sweet and spicy surprise!
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Mini Treats: Roll out the dough thinner and use a mini cookie cutter to create bite-sized patties for a perfect treat that’s easy to pop in your mouth.
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Coating Variations: Dip in white chocolate instead of regular chocolate for a sweeter, creamier twist that offers a beautiful contrast to the green mint filling.
Embrace the joy of creating your own unique version of these festive peppermint patties!
Storage Tips for Homemade Peppermint Patties
Fridge: Store your homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This keeps them fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties for up to 3 months. Place layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking, then seal in a freezer-safe container.
Room Temperature: If left out at room temperature, enjoy them within 1 week for the best texture and taste. Keep them cool and away from direct sunlight!
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these treats, as they are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. Just pop them out when you’re ready to indulge!
What to Serve with Homemade Peppermint Patties?
These delightful treats invite a symphony of flavors, making your holiday gatherings feel even more special.
- Rich Dark Hot Chocolate: This indulgent drink complements the minty freshness perfectly, creating a cozy dessert pairing.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The smoothness of vanilla ice cream balances the minty bite, offering a cool, creamy contrast.
- Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or bananas dipped in chocolate provide a sweet and fruity addition to the rich peppermint patties.
For a colorful and fresh twist, mix in colorful fruits atop a dessert platter. This not only looks beautiful but also brings vibrant flavors to your dessert table.
- Gingerbread Cookies: Their spicy warmth complements the cool mint, creating a delightful seasonal combination.
- Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds a sweet depth that offsets the mint, turning your treats into an unforgettable dessert experience.
- Scented Holiday Tea: Pairing peppermint patties with a warm spiced tea elevates the holiday spirit, offering a fragrant and soothing finish.
Each of these options creates a unique experience, ensuring that your homemade peppermint patties shine during your festive celebrations!
Make Ahead Options
These homemade peppermint patties are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify the holiday rush! You can prepare the filling and cut out the shapes up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate the shaped patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch to maintain their form. When you’re ready to serve, melt the chocolate and dip each patty to coat them beautifully. Allow the chocolate to set, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This prep-ahead approach means you can enjoy these delightful treats with minimal effort, making them just as delicious and fresh as when you made them!
Expert Tips for Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Stiff Dough: Ensure the dough is thick enough before shaping; a wet dough may make it challenging to cut out neat circles.
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Chocolate Melting Trick: If your chocolate hardens too quickly while dipping, gently reheat it in the microwave in short intervals for a smooth finish.
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Cooling Time: Don’t rush the drying process; allowing the homemade peppermint patties to dry properly at room temperature ensures the perfect texture and prevents sticking.
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Layering for Storage: When storing, layer the patties in an airtight container with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together and maintain their charm.
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Festive Decor: Get creative with sprinkles or crushed peppermint on top of the still-wet chocolate for a delightful holiday presentation!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my peppermint patties?
Absolutely! For the best results, use high-quality sweetened condensed milk for creaminess and a pure peppermint extract to really enhance that minty flavor. When selecting chocolate chips, opt for semi-sweet for a perfect balance of sweetness, or choose dark chocolate if you want a richer taste.
How should I store my homemade peppermint patties?
I recommend storing your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking. If you’re looking to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months, layered with parchment paper, and sealed in a freezer-safe container.
Can I freeze homemade peppermint patties? How do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze them for sure! To freeze your peppermint patties, first let them harden completely at room temperature or in the fridge. Then, line a baking tray with parchment paper and place the patties in a single layer. Freeze until solid, usually about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe container with layers of parchment paper separating them, and seal. They’ll stay delicious for about 3 months!
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
Very often, dough can become sticky due to humidity or measuring errors. If this happens, simply add a little more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough is manageable and not sticking to your hands anymore. While kneading on a powdered sugar-dusted surface can help, just be sure not to add too much sugar at once.
Are peppermint patties safe for dogs?
No, they are not safe for dogs! The chocolate and peppermint extract can be harmful to dogs, potentially causing digestive issues. It’s important to keep these festive treats out of reach of our furry friends, as even small amounts can be toxic to them.
How do I decorate my peppermint patties?
Decorating is super fun! While the chocolate coating is still wet, you can sprinkle colorful sprinkles, crushed candy canes, or even a light dusting of cocoa powder or edible glitter. Alternatively, you could drizzle some melted white chocolate over the top for an elegant finish. Get creative and design them in a way that matches your holiday spirit!
Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract. Gradually stir in powdered sugar until a thick, pliable dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a surface dusted with powdered sugar. Knead it gently until smooth and no longer sticky.
- Shape the Patties: Roll the dough into a 1/4-inch thickness, cut out small circles with a cookie cutter, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Dry the Patties: Allow the patties to dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours, flipping halfway through.
- Melt and Dip: Melt the chocolate chips and shortening together in a microwave-safe bowl, then dip each patty into the chocolate.
- Decorate: Sprinkle decorations on top while the chocolate is still wet.
- Set and Serve: Allow the chocolate to harden completely before serving.