These Homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful and refreshing treat that’s surprisingly easy to make with just five simple ingredients. With a creamy, cool peppermint filling coated in rich dark chocolate, these patties are perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a classic mint-chocolate combo. They’re easy to customize and make for a wonderful homemade gift. Let’s dive into making these sweet and minty confections!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 10 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions
Make the Peppermint Filling
- Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, and peppermint extract. Add the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a smooth, dough-like consistency forms. The mixture should be firm but pliable.
- Shape the Filling
- Roll the peppermint mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then flatten each ball gently with your fingers to form a disc.
- Chill the Filling
- Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill the peppermint discs for about 30 minutes, or until firm.
Coat with Chocolate
- Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop.
- Dip the Patties
- Using a fork, dip each chilled peppermint disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then place the coated patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill to Set
- Once all the peppermint discs are coated, transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Peppermint Flavor: Feel free to adjust the amount of peppermint extract to suit your taste. Start with 1/4 teaspoon and add more if you prefer a stronger mint flavor.
- Chocolate Coating: For a smoother chocolate coating, you can add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate.
- Storage: Store the peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Recipe Variations
- White Chocolate Peppermint Patties: Use white chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a sweeter twist.
- Minty Sprinkles: Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or festive sprinkles on top of each patty for added texture and color.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: After coating the patties in chocolate, drizzle some extra melted dark chocolate over the top for a decorative finish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract? A: Yes, but peppermint oil is much stronger than peppermint extract, so use it sparingly—start with just a drop or two and adjust to taste.
Q: Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? A: Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the patties sweeter, which is perfect if you prefer a less intense chocolate flavor.
Q: Why is my peppermint filling too sticky? A: If the filling is too sticky to handle, add a little more powdered sugar until it reaches a workable consistency.
Q: Can I make these patties vegan? A: Yes, you can use dairy-free butter and cream, as well as vegan chocolate, to make these peppermint patties suitable for a vegan diet.
These Homemade Peppermint Patties are a refreshing and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With just five simple ingredients, you can create these classic minty confections right in your own kitchen. They make wonderful gifts during the holidays, or simply a sweet treat to keep on hand. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of cool peppermint and rich chocolate in every bite!