There’s a certain joy that comes from making candy at home, and these Homemade Peppermint Patties may just become your new go-to treat. The first time I took a bite, I was instantly transported to winter wonderlands and festive celebrations. The cool, minty filling enveloped in rich dark chocolate is simply irresistible.
As the holiday season approaches, it feels like the perfect time to recreate this classic favorite. Not only are these patties indulgent, but they are also surprisingly simple to whip up, making them a great option for gift-giving or holiday gatherings.
Imagine the delight on your friends’ faces when you present them with these beautiful, homemade treats adorned with crushed candy canes. They may think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, you can enjoy this little project in just over an hour! With a handful of ingredients, you’ll discover how easy it is to bring a touch of magic into your home kitchen. Let’s dive into this sweet adventure and get started on your very own peppermint patties!
Why are Homemade Peppermint Patties irresistible?
Joyful experience: Making candy at home is a delightful way to spend your time, filled with sweet aromas and fun moments.
Minty freshness: The cool peppermint filling captivates your taste buds, perfectly balanced with the rich dark chocolate exterior.
Simple preparations: With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have these festive treats ready in about an hour!
Crowd-pleasing gift: Share them with family and friends or package them beautifully for the perfect holiday gift.
Endless creativity: Decorate your patties with crushed candy canes or sprinkles for a personal touch that dazzles.
Perfect for every occasion: These treats aren’t just for holidays; they make any day feel special!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Ingredients
For the Filling
- Powdered sugar – 7 1/2 cups, sifted (755g) – The sweetness and texture foundation for your peppermint patties.
- Evaporated milk – 1/3 cup – Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together.
- Light corn syrup – 1/3 cup – Provides moisture and aids in achieving the perfect chewy texture.
- Coconut oil – 3 tablespoons, extra-virgin or refined, melted – Enhances flavor and gives the filling a smooth consistency.
- Peppermint extract – 1 1/2 teaspoons – This is what brings the fresh minty flavor that truly defines your Homemade Peppermint Patties.
For the Coating
- Ghiradelli dark chocolate melting wafers – 20 ounces – Rich chocolate that perfectly complements the cool filling.
For Decorating
- Crushed candy canes – Use them for festive topping and fun crunch!
- Sprinkles – Brighten up your treats with colorful accents for extra flair.
- Melted white chocolate – Drizzle over the tops for an elegant finish that enhances the festive look.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together powdered sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, melted coconut oil, and peppermint extract. Use an electric mixer to whip it into a creamy and smooth consistency, taking about 3-4 minutes. If it becomes too thick, knead by hand.
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Chill the mixture: Divide the filling into two discs and wrap each in plastic wrap. Place them in the fridge and chill for 1 hour to firm up.
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Roll out dough: Dust your rolling surface with powdered sugar. Roll out the chilled mixture between two sheets of parchment paper until it’s about ¼-inch thick for that perfect consistency.
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Cut out patties: Use a small round cutter (2 to 2 ½ inches) to stamp out circles. Carefully transfer each to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze these cut-outs for 20 minutes to set their shape.
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Melt chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate wafers. Do this in short 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
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Dip and decorate: One by one, dip the chilled centers into the melted chocolate using a fork. Tap gently against the bowl’s edge to remove excess chocolate. Place them back on the parchment-lined tray and sprinkle with crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate for an elegant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Sifting Sugar: Always sift the powdered sugar before measuring. This ensures a smoother filling and prevents lumps in your Homemade Peppermint Patties.
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Chill Now, Enjoy Later: Don’t skip the chilling step! It firms up the filling nicely, making it easier to roll and cut without sticking.
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Even Coating: Use a fork to dip the patties, but ensure you tap off excess chocolate. This helps create a beautiful, even coating and avoids pools of chocolate.
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Decorative Fun: Get creative with toppings! In addition to crushed candy canes, try adding colored sprinkles or even edible glitter for a festive touch.
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Storage Tips: Store your patties in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and delicious for weeks!
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Get the Right Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate melting wafers for a rich flavor that complements the mint perfectly.
Homemade Peppermint Patties Variations
Feel free to explore variations and substitutions that ignite your creativity and taste preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute evaporated milk with a non-dairy alternative like almond or coconut milk for a vegan twist.
- Sugar-Free: Use powdered erythritol or another sugar substitute to enjoy guilt-free sweetness without sacrificing flavor. These sugar-free delights are perfect for those watching their sugar intake.
- Mint Alternatives: Experiment with different extracts like spearmint or wintergreen for a unique flavor twist. This small change can create completely new candy experiences!
- Chocolate Choices: Switch dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate to cater to your family’s preferences; each brings a distinct touch to these peppermint wonders.
- Texture Boost: Add finely chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for a crunchy surprise inside the patties. This variation adds a delightful crunch that complements the creamy center.
- Festive Flavors: Mix in a few drops of food-safe essential oils, like peppermint or orange, for an aromatic kick. A splash of orange zest brings a refreshing and bright flavor contrast.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a surprising warm finish that complements the mint beautifully!
Embrace your inner chef and enjoy crafting these delectable peppermint patties that everyone will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Peppermint Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the initial steps to mix the ingredients and form the discs, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This helps maintain their freshness and prevents them from drying out. You can also freeze the cut-out circles for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply dip the frozen patties in melted chocolate and decorate as desired. This method not only saves time but ensures your treats remain just as delicious as when freshly made!
What to Serve with Homemade Peppermint Patties?
Perfect for adding festive flair to any gathering, these delightful treats pair beautifully with a variety of delicious options.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm mug of cocoa brings together the peppermint and chocolate flavors in a cozy embrace.
- Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: The freshness of strawberries complements the minty filling, creating a delicious contrast.
Picture a beautiful dessert table with your peppermint patties nestled next to these berry delights. It’s a sight that beckons joy!
- Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Creamy and smooth, ice cream enhances the flavors while providing a delightful and refreshing contrast.
- Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors balance the sweetness of peppermint, making for a perfect after-dinner pairing.
- Mixed Berry Tart: The tartness of the berries cuts through the sweetness, bringing a lovely balance to your dessert spread.
With such versatile pairing options, each bite of your Homemade Peppermint Patties can take on a whole new twist of flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Peppermint Patties
Fridge: Store your homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy anytime!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container and enjoy for up to 3 months.
Thawing: When ready to indulge, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours. Enjoy the delightful minty flavor of your homemade peppermint patties!
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat; these treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine.
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my peppermint extract is fresh?
To determine if your peppermint extract is still potent, take a whiff. It should have a strong, fresh mint aroma. If it smells weak or off, it’s best to replace it. I recommend checking the expiration date too; if it’s been opened for more than 6 months, it might be time for a new bottle.
What’s the best way to store homemade peppermint patties?
Absolutely! Store your homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 weeks. For best results, layer the patties with parchment paper to keep them from sticking together. If you’re planning to keep them longer, freezing is a great option!
Can I freeze homemade peppermint patties?
Yes, you can! To freeze your homemade peppermint patties, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They will stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge for a few hours.
What if my chocolate coating doesn’t set properly?
If your chocolate coating doesn’t set properly, it might be due to the temperature of the chocolate or the patties. Ensure you melt the chocolate using short bursts in the microwave and stir frequently. If it’s too hot, it won’t harden correctly. Additionally, make sure your patties are chilled before dipping; this helps the chocolate set better. For a firmer finish, you can refrigerate the dipped patties for another 10-15 minutes.
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for coating?
Very! If you’re a fan of white chocolate, feel free to swap it for the dark chocolate in this recipe. Just melt it in the same way and dip the chilled peppermint centers. Keep in mind that the flavor will be sweeter and less intense than using dark chocolate. For an extra kick, you can even drizzle dark chocolate over white-coated patties for a lovely contrast!
Are peppermint patties safe for my pet?
It’s best to keep your homemade peppermint patties away from pets, especially dogs and cats. They can be sensitive to sugar and chocolate, and certain ingredients can be harmful to them. Always prioritize their health by keeping these delicious treats for humans only!
Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together powdered sugar, evaporated milk, corn syrup, melted coconut oil, and peppermint extract. Use an electric mixer to whip it into a creamy and smooth consistency, taking about 3-4 minutes. If it becomes too thick, knead by hand.
- Divide the filling into two discs and wrap each in plastic wrap. Place them in the fridge and chill for 1 hour to firm up.
- Dust your rolling surface with powdered sugar. Roll out the chilled mixture between two sheets of parchment paper until it’s about ¼-inch thick for that perfect consistency.
- Use a small round cutter (2 to 2 ½ inches) to stamp out circles. Carefully transfer each to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze these cut-outs for 20 minutes to set their shape.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate wafers. Do this in short 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until it’s completely smooth and creamy.
- One by one, dip the chilled centers into the melted chocolate using a fork. Tap gently against the bowl’s edge to remove excess chocolate. Place them back on the parchment-lined tray and sprinkle with crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles before the chocolate sets.
- Optional: Drizzle melted white chocolate for an elegant touch!