There’s something undeniably refreshing about the crispness of peppermint paired with the richness of chocolate, and these homemade peppermint patties capture that magic perfectly. When I first tried my hand at making these no-bake delights, the kitchen was filled with the enchanting scent of mint that instantly lifted my spirits. This recipe is a breeze, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for the busy holiday season or even a relaxed afternoon treat.
Whether you’re looking to wow your guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these easy peppermint patties offer the perfect balance of creamy peppermint and luscious chocolate. They’re fantastic for sharing at parties, tucking into gift bags, or even just enjoying yourself while curled up on the couch. Plus, you can customize them with dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a sprinkle of crushed candy canes for that extra holiday flair! Let’s dive into creating this sweet, addictive treat that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
Why You’ll Love Homemade Peppermint Patties
Simplicity: Making homemade peppermint patties is incredibly easy with just a few steps—perfect for anyone, regardless of baking experience.
Quick Treat: In just 20 minutes, you can create a delicious dessert, saving you time during the busy holiday season.
Customizable Flavor: Switch up the chocolate with milk, dark, or white options, or even add fun toppings like crushed candy canes!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These truffles are not only a fantastic addition to cookie trays but also perfect for gifting in festive tins.
Nostalgic Joy: Capture the heartwarming spirit of the holidays with this classic recipe that brings back sweet memories for all ages.
No-Bake Convenience: No need for an oven—enjoy the ease of no-bake treats that everyone will adore!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Ingredients
For the Filling
- Confectioners’ Sugar – Provides the main sweetness and structure of the patties; ensure it is finely ground for a smooth texture.
- Butter – Adds creaminess and richness; can substitute with margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan version.
- Peppermint Extract – Delivers a strong peppermint flavor; consider using peppermint oil for a more intense flavor, but reduce the amount.
- Vanilla Extract – Balances the flavor profile beautifully; you can omit it for a purer peppermint taste.
- Evaporated Milk – Acts as a binder, adding moisture; feel free to use coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free option.
For the Chocolate Coating
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips – Used for coating, offering a rich chocolate flavor; dark chocolate can be used for a bolder taste or milk chocolate for extra sweetness.
- Shortening – Helps to smooth the chocolate coating; can be omitted for a thicker chocolate coating, but it may not harden as evenly.
These homemade peppermint patties come together effortlessly, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful process of creating these sweet confections!
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the confectioners’ sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well blended and creamy.
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Add Moisture: Slowly mix in the evaporated milk, folding it in gently until you achieve a smooth and cohesive mixture.
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Shape the Patties: Roll the peppermint mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a waxed paper or parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading them out evenly.
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Flatten and Freeze: Press each ball down to about 1/4-inch thickness using the bottom of a glass; then, freeze the flattened patties for 30 minutes to firm them up.
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Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening together, stirring in 15-second intervals until the chocolate is completely smooth.
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Dip the Patties: Carefully dip each frozen peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off before placing them back on the waxed paper to set and cool completely.
Optional: Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before the chocolate sets for added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Homemade Peppermint Patties
Room Temperature: Store the patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and texture.
Fridge: For longer-lasting treats, keep the peppermint patties in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. This will help keep them firm and cool.
Freezer: Freeze homemade peppermint patties by placing them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; they can last for up to 1 month. Allow them to thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: No reheating is necessary, but if you prefer them warm, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes after chilling to soften slightly.
What to Serve with Easy No-Bake Peppermint Patties?
The perfect peppermint patties deserve equally delightful companions to enhance your holiday festivities.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich and velvety drink complements the minty freshness perfectly, creating a cozy indulgence for the holiday season. Consider topping your hot chocolate with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa for an added treat.
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Chocolate Dipped Fruit: Fresh strawberries or banana slices dipped in chocolate offer a delicious balance to the sweetness of the patties, bringing a refreshing pop of flavor to your spread.
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Peppermint Tea: A warm cup of peppermint tea not only echoes the flavors of your homemade peppermint patties but also provides a soothing break during busy holiday gatherings.
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Cheesecake Bites: The creamy texture of cheesecake bites contrasts beautifully with the firm yet creamy interior of the patties, creating a delightful mix of tastes and textures to please your guests.
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Sugar Cookies: Soft, buttery sugar cookies provide a classic treat that pairs wonderfully with the patties, making them perfect for sharing on cookie platters or gifting baskets.
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Spiced Mulled Wine: For an adult twist, serve spiced mulled wine, which offers warming spices and a hint of sweetness, complementing the refreshing minty flavor of your peppermint patties.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical twist to your dessert table, contrasting nicely with the coolness of the peppermint. Their sweetness balances the chocolate coating, creating a satisfying bite.
These pairing options will not only impress your guests but also elevate your peppermint patty experience into an unforgettable holiday celebration!
Expert Tips for Homemade Peppermint Patties
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Finely Ground Sugar: Ensure the confectioners’ sugar is finely ground to achieve that smooth texture. Coarse sugar can lead to grainy patties.
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Chill for Firmness: After shaping the patties, freezing them for a full 30 minutes helps maintain their shape during the dipping process.
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Chocolate Temperature: Dip the patties in slightly cooled chocolate; hot chocolate can cause the patties to melt or break apart, affecting the final look.
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Mix and Match: Experiment with different types of chocolate for your coating—dark or white chocolate can provide a delightful twist on the classic homemade peppermint patties.
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Add Some Crunch: For an extra festive touch, consider topping your patties with crushed candy canes or even chopped nuts before the chocolate sets; this adds a delightful contrast!
Make Ahead Options
These homemade peppermint patties are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to simplify their holiday baking! You can prepare the filling mixture and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance by rolling them into balls and refrigerating them, covered tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, freeze the flattened patties for up to 3 weeks; when ready to serve, simply dip them in melted chocolate straight from the freezer, which helps maintain their firm consistency while coating. For the best quality, store the finished patties in an airtight container to keep them fresh and tasty, making your holiday treat prep a breeze!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Variations
Unlock your creativity and elevate your peppermint patties with these fun and delicious twists!
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Vegan Delight: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use almond or coconut milk for a completely plant-based treat. The tropical flavor of coconut adds a lovely twist!
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with flavored extracts like chocolate mint or wintergreen for a unique twist that captures the essence of the season.
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Chocolate Choices: Opt for dark or white chocolate for coating to create varied flavor profiles; each provides a distinct taste experience sure to delight everyone.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts into the filling for added texture and a delightful crunch that complements the smoothness of the chocolate.
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Minty Garnish: Top each patty with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or a drizzle of melted chocolate for that extra holiday flair; it adds both flavor and stunning visual appeal!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to the filling for a surprising heat that pairs beautifully with the coolness of peppermint.
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Dipped Variants: Try dipping your patties in white chocolate and sprinkling them with edible glitter for a festive touch perfect for holiday parties.
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Mini Versions: Shape the mixture into smaller bites for bite-sized delights; perfect for snacking or as a light treat after dinner!
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe or fresh ingredients for homemade peppermint patties?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, specifically the butter and evaporated milk, opt for fresh options. Make sure the butter is soft but not melted—look for a creamy color without any dark spots or odd odors. As for the evaporated milk, ensure it’s within the expiration date on the can to guarantee the best flavor and consistency for your patties.
What’s the best way to store homemade peppermint patties?
The more the merrier when it comes to storage! For room temperature, place your peppermint patties in an airtight container. They can last up to 3 days this way. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge where they will remain fresh for up to 2 weeks. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying them, as this helps them soften slightly.
Can I freeze homemade peppermint patties, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To do so, place the peppermint patties in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored this way for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply move them to the fridge to thaw overnight before indulging. This method helps maintain their shape and texture, allowing you to savor those delightful flavors even after a long time!
What should I do if the chocolate coating isn’t sticking well to my patties?
Very! If you’re finding the chocolate isn’t sticking, it might be due to the patties being too cold. Let them sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes before dipping. If the mixture feels too soft when you’re flattening, try chilling it in the freezer again for another 10 minutes. This can provide better adhesion and a smoother dipping experience.
Are there any common allergens in homemade peppermint patties?
Certainly! The primary allergens in homemade peppermint patties are dairy (from the butter and evaporated milk) and potentially nuts if you use certain butter alternatives like almond butter. For a dairy-free option, I recommend using coconut milk or a dairy-free butter substitute. As always, be sure to double-check any specific ingredient brands for allergy information to keep everyone safe!
Homemade Peppermint Patties: No-Bake Holiday Delights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, beat together the confectioners' sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until well blended and creamy.
- Slowly mix in the evaporated milk, folding it in gently until you achieve a smooth and cohesive mixture.
- Roll the peppermint mixture into 1-inch balls and arrange them on a waxed paper or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press each ball down to about 1/4-inch thickness using the bottom of a glass; freeze for 30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening, stirring in 15-second intervals until smooth.
- Dip each frozen peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off before placing them back on the waxed paper.