Peppermint Patties

If you’ve ever craved a refreshingly cool, minty treat that melts beautifully in your mouth, making Peppermint Patties at home is the way to go. This delightful recipe combines creamy, sweet peppermint filling with a smooth chocolate shell to create an irresistible candy that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned candy maker or a curious beginner, this easy-to-follow guide will show you how to make delicious Peppermint Patties right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Peppermint Patties require just a handful of pantry staples to create a fresh, homemade candy experience.
• Customizable Flavor: You can easily adjust the intensity of the peppermint or try different chocolate coatings to suit your taste.
• Perfect Texture: The creamy, soft filling contrasts perfectly with the crisp chocolate shell for an unbeatable combination.
• Fun and Rewarding: Crafting these patties is an enjoyable process that will leave you proud and eager to share your creation.
• Great Gift Idea: Homemade Peppermint Patties make a thoughtful and delicious gift for friends and family, especially during holidays.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Peppermint Patties recipe plays a special role, from adding sweetness and texture to creating that refreshing minty punch. The list is straightforward, ensuring the recipe is accessible while promising a truly impressive result.

• Powdered Sugar: Provides the base sweetness and smoothness for a creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
• Light Corn Syrup: Adds chewiness and helps bind the filling so it holds its shape without being too hard.
• Butter: Adds richness and a silky texture that balances the mint flavor beautifully.
• Pure Peppermint Extract: Delivers the signature refreshing taste that defines Peppermint Patties.
• Semisweet or Dark Chocolate: Used for coating, it melts smoothly and provides a rich contrast to the sweet filling.
• Vegetable Shortening (optional): Helps thin the chocolate for easier dipping and a shinier finish.

Variations for Peppermint Patties

One of the best parts about making Peppermint Patties at home is how adaptable they are! Whether you’re tweaking the recipe for dietary needs or just experimenting with exciting flavors, these variations make it easy and fun to create your perfect candy.

• Vegan Version: Swap butter for coconut oil and choose dairy-free chocolate to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
• Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use high-quality dark chocolate with 70% cocoa or more for a richer, more intense flavor.
• Mint Varieties: Add a drop of spearmint or wintergreen extract along with peppermint for a unique twist.
• Colorful Patties: Add a few drops of natural food coloring to the filling to brighten up your candies for special occasions.
• Crunchy Fillings: Mix in finely crushed candy canes or peppermint chips to add extra texture.

How to Make Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Filling

Begin by creaming together softened butter and light corn syrup in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually sift in powdered sugar to avoid lumps and mix until a firm, pliable dough forms. Then stir in pure peppermint extract to infuse that classic refreshing flavor. The filling should be soft enough to mold but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

On a surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar, roll out the filling dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter or simply cut squares or circles with a knife. Place each patty on a parchment-lined baking sheet and chill them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling firms them up, making them easier to dip later.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl over simmering water, gently melt semisweet or dark chocolate, stirring until smooth. To loosen the chocolate for easier coating, add a teaspoon or two of vegetable shortening if desired. Avoid overheating to keep the chocolate glossy and prevent it from seizing.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each chilled peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Let excess chocolate drip off, then place the coated patty back onto parchment paper. Repeat until all patties are coated. Work quickly to keep the chocolate temperate and smooth.

Step 5: Set the Chocolate

Allow the dipped Peppermint Patties to set at room temperature or in the fridge for faster hardening. Once the chocolate is firm, they are ready to enjoy or package as gifts. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Pro Tips for Making Peppermint Patties

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For smooth filling and easy mixing, ensure butter and corn syrup are at room temperature before combining.
• Adjust Peppermint Extract Carefully: Start with less and add more gradually to avoid an overpowering flavor.
• Keep Filling Cool: Always chill patty shapes before dipping to help chocolate adhere smoothly without melting the filling.
• Temper Your Chocolate: For the best shine and snap, properly temper the chocolate, or add a bit of shortening to maintain a glossy finish.
• Work in Small Batches: Dip a few patties at a time to prevent chocolate from cooling and thickening too much.

How to Serve Peppermint Patties

Garnishes

Enhance the presentation by finely crushing candy canes or sprinkling shaved chocolate on top of each patty right after dipping. A light dusting of edible glitter or a drizzle of white chocolate also adds a festive touch and makes your candies look professionally made.

Side Dishes

Peppermint Patties pair wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee, hot chocolate, or peppermint tea. Serving them alongside your favorite holiday cookies or a cheese platter creates a delicious contrast that will impress guests.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap individual patties in wax paper or place them in decorative tins or mason jars tied with ribbons for an elegant homemade gift. You can also arrange them on a fancy platter with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for a stunning dessert table centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Peppermint Patties in an airtight container at room temperature, ideally in a cool, dry place, to keep them fresh for up to two weeks. Avoid humidity which can make the chocolate sticky or the filling soft.

Freezing

If you’d like to keep your treats longer, freeze Peppermint Patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheating isn’t necessary since these treats are best enjoyed cool, but if your chocolate softens, simply let patties return to room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use extracts other than peppermint?

Yes, you can try spearmint, wintergreen, or even a mild vanilla extract for a different flavor profile, but peppermint extract is key for that classic taste.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it relies primarily on sugar, butter, and chocolate, but always check your chocolate ingredient labels to be certain.

How long do Peppermint Patties last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, homemade peppermint patties will stay fresh for about two weeks at room temperature and longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semisweet?

Yes, dark chocolate works wonderfully and gives a deeper, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet filling, perfect for those who enjoy richer flavors.

What’s the best way to prevent filling from sticking to my hands?

Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar or coat them with a little vegetable shortening to prevent the sticky peppermint filling from clinging while shaping.

Final Thoughts

Making Peppermint Patties at home is such a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients, easy steps, and a magical flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re crafting a batch for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe promises a fresh, minty delight packed into every bite. So grab your ingredients, have fun with the process, and enjoy the sweet, cool results!

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