Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe

There’s something just magical about biting into a cool, creamy peppermint patty during the holiday season, and making your own feels even more special. This Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe is not only deliciously refreshing but also brings a charming homemade touch that’s perfect for gifting or party treats. I love how these patties balance sweet, minty, and smooth textures — they’re that classic peppermint flavor you know and love, but with a fresh homemade twist.

Whether you’re looking to impress family at Christmas or want a fun, festive activity in the kitchen, this recipe is your go-to. It’s straightforward enough for beginners but offers that joyful “wow” factor when you unwrap each green or red peppermint patty. Trust me, once you try this Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe, you’ll want to keep making them year after year!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe plays a special role in creating that perfect smoothness and peppermint punch. I like to use fresh cream cheese and real peppermint extract to make sure every bite is flavorful and creamy.

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and a bit of structure to the filling; be sure to measure carefully for the right balance.
• Cream cheese: Brings creamy richness; it should be at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Unsalted butter: Adds smoothness without overwhelming saltiness—room temp makes it blend beautifully.
• Light/clear corn syrup: Helps keep the filling soft and workable, plus adds a subtle gloss.
• Peppermint extract: The star of the show! Use a good quality extract for the best minty flavor.
• Powdered sugar: The bulk of the filling, giving that soft, sweet texture that melts in your mouth.
• Green and red liquid food coloring: These bring the Christmas spirit to life and make the patties festive and fun to look at.

Variations

I love playing around with this Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe depending on who’s enjoying them. It’s easy to tweak and make your own, whether you want to change up flavors or make them suitable for different diets.

• Chocolate coating: Dipping vanilla patties in melted dark or white chocolate ups the indulgence—my friends rave about this version at holiday parties.
• Natural coloring: If you prefer no artificial dyes, beet juice or matcha powder can add a beautiful natural tint.
• Vegan option: Substitute cream cheese and butter with plant-based versions, and use a vegan-friendly corn syrup replacement—I’ve tried this, and it still tastes amazing!
• Mint variation: Add crushed candy canes inside for extra crunch, giving these a festive surprise texture.

How to Make Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Base Filling

Start by beating the cream cheese, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes if you’re using a hand mixer. It’s important the butter and cream cheese are fully softened so the texture becomes silky — otherwise, you might end up with lumps. Next, stir in the light corn syrup and peppermint extract, mixing well to combine all those flavors evenly.

Step 2: Add the Powdered Sugar Gradually

Now comes the fun (and a bit of a workout). Slowly add the powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, mixing after each addition. You want to add enough until the mixture is stiff enough to shape but still soft and pliable—think play dough consistency. Don’t rush this part! If you add the sugar too fast, you might end up with a dry, crumbly mix. Usually, I end up using between 4¼ to 5 cups depending on the humidity of my kitchen.

Step 3: Divide and Color the Dough

Once your dough is ready, split it into two equal portions. Add 6 drops of green food coloring to one half and 6 drops of red to the other, kneading each portion until the color is completely blended. This is a simple way to get that festive red and green look that really lights up the kitchen and your holiday table. If you want, you can leave some plain white too—peppermint patties look lovely in all three colors!

Step 4: Shape and Chill the Patties

Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls about 1-inch in diameter, then flatten them gently into disks with your palm or the bottom of a glass. Lining a baking sheet with parchment paper helps a lot here. Pop the shaped patties in the fridge for at least an hour to firm up. This chilling step makes them easier to handle later and improves the texture when you bite into these delightful treats.

How to Serve Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe

Garnishes

I love dusting the peppermint patties lightly with some extra powdered sugar just before serving—it keeps them looking extra festive and adds a soft, snowy effect. Sometimes, I even sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for a crunchy contrast and that signature peppermint sparkle.

Side Dishes

These patties are perfect alongside a hot cup of cocoa or your favorite holiday tea. I like pairing them with gingerbread cookies and rich fudge for a festive dessert platter that makes any gathering feel special. They’re also great after dinner as a refreshing palate cleanser.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I sometimes wrap each peppermint patty in wax paper and tie them with a little ribbon in Christmas colors. It makes them look like little gifts, and guests love unwrapping each one. Another idea is serving them on a pretty holiday-themed plate stacked in neat little piles—easy and charming!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay fresh and soft for up to two weeks—perfect if you want to make a big batch ahead of a party. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between layers so they don’t stick together.

Freezing

These patties freeze beautifully! I freeze individual patties on a parchment-lined tray first, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight. Freezing helps keep that fresh peppermint flavor locked in without losing texture.

Reheating

Since these are no-bake peppermint patties, you don’t really need to reheat them. If they’ve chilled too long and feel a bit firm, simply leave them out at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften before enjoying. That subtle softening helps bring out all those creamy, minty notes.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Christmas Peppermint Patties Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it brings the nostalgia of holidays past together with a simple, fun kitchen project. I genuinely think you’ll enjoy making these as much as eating them—there’s something so satisfying about creating those perfect little patties by hand. If you’re searching for that perfect peppermint treat to share or gift, give this recipe a try. Your family and friends will thank you (and maybe even request it every year!).

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