Easy Peppermint Patties Recipe to Try Today

There is something truly magical about homemade Peppermint Patties; their crisp, refreshing mint filling wrapped in silky smooth chocolate is an irresistible treat you can enjoy any time of the year. This easy Peppermint Patties recipe shows you how to create these delightful confections from simple ingredients—all in the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you’re looking to impress guests during festive occasions or satisfy a sudden sweet craving, these peppermint patties are a perfect choice that combines classic flavor with satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: No complicated or hard-to-find items needed, making it accessible for everyone.
• Customizable Flavors: You can easily adjust the peppermint intensity and chocolate coating to suit your tastes.
• Perfect Texture: The creamy, melt-in-your-mouth filling balances beautifully with the firm chocolate shell.
• Great for Gifting: Homemade peppermint patties make thoughtful and charming gifts.
• Year-Round Delight: Ideal for festive occasions or just indulging a minty sweet tooth any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peppermint Patties recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each carefully chosen to build the perfect flavor, texture, and appearance. The peppermint extract delivers that classic refreshing zing, while the chocolate coating provides rich, smooth sweetness.

• Powdered Sugar: The foundation for the creamy mint filling, giving sweetness and structure.
• Light Corn Syrup: Adds moisture and a slight chewiness to the center.
• Unsalted Butter: Contributes richness and smooth texture to the filling.
• Peppermint Extract: The star flavor ingredient that makes these patties so refreshing.
• Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate: For dipping and coating the patties, providing a rich outer shell.
• Optional Food Coloring: A drop of green or light blue to give your patties a festive look.

Variations for Peppermint Patties

The beauty of this peppermint patties recipe is how easily you can tailor it to your preferences or dietary requirements. Feel free to experiment and make your version uniquely yours!

• Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate to keep it vegan-friendly.
• Spicy Mint: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising kick.
• White Chocolate Coating: Swap in white chocolate for a creamier, sweeter shell.
• Mint Varieties: Try spearmint or wintergreen extract for different flavor profiles.
• Nutty Additions: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts inside or on top after dipping for a crunchy surprise.

How to Make Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Filling

In a medium bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and light corn syrup until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition until the dough comes together and no longer sticks to your fingers. Stir in peppermint extract and, if desired, a drop of food coloring for that classic pale green hue.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, form the dough into bite-sized discs about 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

Gently melt your chocolate either using a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring often to avoid burning. The chocolate should be smooth and fluid enough for dipping.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Using a fork or dipping tool, coat each chilled peppermint patty with melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Return dipped patties to the parchment paper to set. For a glossy finish, allow them to harden at room temperature or chill briefly.

Step 5: Enjoy or Store

Once the chocolate coating is set, your peppermint patties are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Patties

• Use Fresh Extract: Always opt for high-quality peppermint extract for the most vibrant flavor.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the filling just until smooth to keep the texture light, not dense.
• Keep the Patties Cool: Refrigerate the shaped patties before dipping to prevent melting in the chocolate.
• Temper Your Chocolate: If possible, temper chocolate for a shinier finish and snappier texture.
• Work Rapidly: Melt chocolate in small batches and dip patties quickly to maintain smooth coating.

How to Serve Peppermint Patties

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, edible glitter, or a drizzle of contrasting chocolate can elevate your peppermint patties and make them festive and inviting.

Side Dishes

Peppermint patties make a refreshing finish to rich desserts, pairing beautifully with hot chocolate, coffee, or a creamy vanilla ice cream for a sweet and cooling contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap each peppermint patty in colorful foil or place them in mini cupcake liners for charming treats at parties, gifts, or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your peppermint patties fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator if your home is warm; they will stay delicious for up to two weeks.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze peppermint patties in a sealed container separated by parchment paper layers. Thaw at room temperature before serving to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

These treats are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so avoid reheating. If your chocolate loses shine, simply let them sit out to come to ambient temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make peppermint patties without corn syrup?

Yes! You can substitute light corn syrup with honey, agave syrup, or even glucose syrup, though the texture might be slightly different but still delicious.

How long do homemade peppermint patties last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, peppermint patties maintain their freshness and flavor for up to two weeks at room temperature and longer in the fridge.

Is there a way to make peppermint patties sugar-free?

You can use powdered erythritol or other powdered sugar substitutes to make a sugar-free version, but note that texture and sweetness levels might vary slightly.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate offers a creamier, sweeter contrast to the mint filling and is a great alternative if you prefer milder chocolate flavor.

How can I store peppermint patties for gifting?

Wrap individual patties in waxed paper or foil, then place them in a decorative tin or box. Keep them cool and advise recipients to store in a cool place for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a homemade peppermint patty that you crafted yourself. This recipe is simple, customizable, and guaranteed to brighten your day with each cool, minty bite. Whether for sharing with loved ones or keeping as a personal treat, making peppermint patties at home is a joyful and delicious experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Print