Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
If you love that cool, refreshing peppermint flavor wrapped in creamy sweetness, then this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is calling your name. I’ve made a lot of peppermint candies over the years, but there’s something special about crafting these patties from scratch — it’s like unwrapping a little bit of holiday magic any time of year. Plus, since you control the ingredients, the flavors come through way better than store-bought versions.
What I really adore about this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is how fuss-free it is despite sounding fancy. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday cookie swap or just want a delightful after-dinner mint, these patties deliver that perfect balance of sweet, minty, and chocolaty goodness. I can’t wait for you to try them and see how easy and fun peppermint candy can be!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients come together beautifully to create that classic peppermint patty experience: smooth, creamy center with a crisp chocolate coating. I like keeping it simple so you can find everything at your local store, and I’ll share some tips to make sure each one turns out perfect.
- Sweetened condensed milk: This adds creaminess and richness to the filling without needing any butter or cream.
- Peppermint extract: The star player! Use pure peppermint extract for the brightest, most authentic mint flavor.
- Powdered sugar: It thickens the filling to that perfect fudgy consistency, so the patties hold their shape.
- Chocolate almond bark: An easy melting chocolate that hardens nicely for that satisfying snap. You can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
- Sprinkles (optional): For a festive touch or just a bit of extra fun. I often add red and green during the holidays.
Variations
One of the best parts about this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe is that you can make it your own. I’m all for tweaking flavors and trying new textures, so don’t be shy about making these patties just how you like!
- Dark chocolate coating: I’ve tried swapping out the almond bark for dark chocolate, which adds a bit of intensity and balances the sweetness nicely.
- Vegan peppermint patties: Replace sweetened condensed milk with a thick coconut cream and use vegan chocolate to make them plant-based.
- Crushed candy cane topping: Adding crushed peppermint candies on top before the chocolate sets gives a satisfying crunch and extra mint punch.
- Miniature sizes: If you want bite-sized treats, just roll smaller balls of filling and dip away – perfect for sharing!
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Step 1: Whip up the minty filling
Start by pouring the sweetened condensed milk into a bowl and stir in the peppermint extract. Slowly add the powdered sugar, mixing as you go until the mixture becomes thick pasty dough. It should be pliable but not sticky — if it’s too wet, add a little more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time. Pro tip: Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to incorporate since it can get dense fast.
Step 2: Shape your patties
Once the dough feels just right, roll it into small balls—about the size of a walnut works great—and then flatten each one gently to create discs. I find placing them on parchment paper lined baking sheets helps them keep their shape better. Pop these discs into the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up a bit before coating. This step is key because a chilled filling dips more easily without melting the chocolate later on.
Step 3: Dip your patties in chocolate
Melt the chocolate almond bark in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second bursts, stirring in between until smooth. Take each chilled patty and use a fork or dipping tool to coat completely in chocolate, letting the excess drip off. Place the coated patties back on parchment to set. If you want, sprinkle some festive decorations on top right away so they stick. Set these aside in the fridge until the chocolate hardens fully — usually about 15-20 minutes.
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Garnishes
I love adding a sprinkle of crushed candy canes or edible glitter on top for a festive vibe, especially around the holidays. It adds a little crunch and looks lovely on cookie trays. Sometimes just a simple dusting of powdered sugar also gives a pretty snowy effect.
Side Dishes
These patties are pretty much their own dessert, but they pair beautifully with a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy treat. I’ve also served them alongside homemade fudge or shortbread cookies during holiday parties — a perfect balance of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try arranging the patties in a decorative box lined with colorful tissue paper or waxed paper cups. You could also stack them on a tiered dessert tray with some fresh mint leaves scattered around for an elegant touch. These candies make wonderful edible gifts, especially when wrapped individually in clear cellophane and tied with a ribbon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover peppermint patties in an airtight container in the fridge to keep the chocolate crisp and the filling firm. They usually stay perfect for up to two weeks, but honestly, they never last that long around here! If storing on a warm day, refrigeration is a must to prevent melting.
Freezing
Freezing is a great option if you want to make a batch ahead of time. I wrap each patty individually in parchment and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you want to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight to avoid condensation messing up the chocolate coating.
Reheating
These peppermint patties are best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t really necessary. But if your chocolate gets a little dull in the fridge, a quick 5-minute rest at room temp restores that perfect snap and shine without melting the filling.
FAQs
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Can I use peppermint oil instead of peppermint extract in this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe?
You can, but peppermint oil is much more concentrated than extract. Start with half the amount and add more carefully, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering your patties with minty heat. Extracts are generally milder and easier to control in candy making.
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Why does my peppermint filling get too sticky or runny?
This usually happens if you haven’t added enough powdered sugar to thicken the mixture. Powdered sugar not only sweetens but helps the filling hold its shape. If it’s too sticky, add tablespoons of powdered sugar gradually until it reaches a firm but pliable consistency.
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Can I use regular chocolate instead of almond bark for coating?
Yes, but almond bark is designed to melt smoothly and set up quickly without tempering. If you use regular chocolate, it’s best to temper it or add a bit of shortening to get that shiny, firm coating. Otherwise, your chocolate might not harden properly or could bloom (develop white streaks).
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How long do homemade peppermint patties last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, they typically last up to two weeks. Keep them chilled to preserve the texture of both the filling and chocolate coating.
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Is this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe difficult for beginners?
Not at all! This recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The most important part is getting the filling consistency just right, which is easy if you add powdered sugar gradually. The dipping step can be a little messy, but don’t worry—it’s fun and improves with practice!
Final Thoughts
Making these Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe from scratch is one of those simple kitchen projects that makes you feel like a candy pro, even if it’s your first try. I love how adaptable the recipe is and the joy it brings to my family and friends. Trust me, once you taste these creamy, minty delights covered in rich chocolate, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your go-to list. So grab your ingredients, invite a friend or better yet, your kids, and enjoy the fun and yummy process together!
PrintHomemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
These Homemade Peppermint Patties are a festive and delightful treat featuring a creamy peppermint filling encased in rich chocolate almond bark. Perfect for holiday celebrations or a refreshing sweet snack, these patties combine the cool flavor of peppermint with the smooth texture of sweetened condensed milk and powdered sugar, dipped in melted chocolate and optionally decorated with colorful sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (including chilling and setting times)
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 peppermint patties 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Filling
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Coating
- 1 pound chocolate almond bark
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the peppermint filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well until a firm dough forms that can be rolled and shaped without sticking to your hands.
- Shape the patties: Roll the dough into a log and slice into small, even pieces. Shape each piece into flat, round disks, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter, and place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill the patties: Refrigerate the shaped peppermint patties for at least 30 minutes to firm up, which will make them easier to dip in chocolate.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark: Melt the chocolate almond bark using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until completely smooth.
- Dip the patties: Using a fork or dipping tool, carefully dip each chilled peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow excess chocolate to drip off before placing them back on the parchment paper.
- Add sprinkles (optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the coated patties with colorful sprinkles for added decoration.
- Set the chocolate: Let the dipped peppermint patties sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate hardens completely, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve and store: Once set, serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Ensure the peppermint pattie dough is firm enough to handle before dipping to avoid breaking.
- You can substitute chocolate almond bark with high-quality dark, milk, or white chocolate according to preference.
- Use wax or parchment paper to prevent sticking when laying out patties to set.
- Sprinkles are optional but add a festive touch perfect for holidays.
- Store patties in a cool, dry place or refrigerator to maintain the chocolate coating’s integrity.
Keywords: peppermint patties, holiday treats, peppermint candy, chocolate peppermint, homemade candy, no-bake peppermint patties
