Homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful fusion of creamy, mint-flavored centers enveloped in rich chocolate. These iconic candies, reminiscent of the store-bought classics, are simple to recreate at home and offer a fresher, more indulgent treat with no artificial ingredients or preservatives. Whether you’re making them for holiday gifts, party favors, or as an everyday snack, these patties promise to be a hit among friends and family. Their refreshing minty taste combined with the smooth chocolate coating makes them a favorite across all age groups. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating these delectable treats, ensuring success with every batch. By the end of this process, you’ll not only have a beautiful plate of peppermint patties but also the satisfaction of having made them entirely from scratch.
Ingredients
For the Peppermint Filling:
- 3 3/4 cups (450g) powdered sugar, sifted
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream
- 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract
For the Chocolate Coating:
- 12 ounces (340g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother coating)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Peppermint Filling
Begin by creaming the softened butter in a large mixing bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar in small increments, alternating with the heavy cream. Continue to beat the mixture until it forms a thick, pliable dough. Add the peppermint extract and mix thoroughly, ensuring the flavor is evenly distributed. Taste the filling and adjust the peppermint extract if necessary, keeping in mind that the flavor will mellow slightly once chilled and coated in chocolate.
Step 2: Roll Out and Shape the Filling
Dust a clean work surface and a rolling pin with powdered sugar to prevent sticking. Place the peppermint filling on the prepared surface and roll it out to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Use a small round cookie cutter (around 1.5 inches in diameter) to cut out discs from the dough. Arrange the discs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Gather the scraps of filling, reroll, and cut until all the dough is used. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to firm up the discs and make them easier to handle during coating.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Coating
While the peppermint discs are chilling, prepare the chocolate coating. Place the chopped chocolate and coconut oil (if using) in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate using a double boiler by setting the bowl over a pot of simmering water, ensuring the bowl does not touch the water. Stir the chocolate frequently until it is completely melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each burst to prevent overheating. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly before dipping the peppermint discs.
Step 4: Dip the Peppermint Discs
Remove the chilled peppermint discs from the freezer. Using a fork or a dipping tool, lower each disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Lift the disc out of the chocolate and gently tap the fork against the edge of the bowl to remove any excess coating. Carefully transfer the coated disc back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat this process with the remaining discs, working quickly to prevent the filling from softening. If the chocolate begins to thicken during the dipping process, gently reheat it to restore its fluidity.
Step 5: Set the Chocolate Coating
Once all the peppermint discs are coated, allow the chocolate to set at room temperature. For a quicker setting time, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Once the chocolate has hardened, the peppermint patties are ready to enjoy. Transfer the finished patties to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
Variation
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use 85% dark chocolate for a more intense, bittersweet flavor. This variation pairs wonderfully with the refreshing mint filling and creates a sophisticated treat.
- Mint-Chocolate Swirl: After coating the peppermint discs in chocolate, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top and use a toothpick to create a swirl pattern. This adds a decorative touch, perfect for holiday gifting or special occasions.
- Festive Colors: Add a few drops of green or red food coloring to the peppermint filling for a festive twist. These colorful patties are ideal for Christmas or themed celebrations.
- Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies on top of the chocolate before it sets for a delightful crunch and an extra burst of minty flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure that the peppermint filling is thoroughly chilled before dipping to maintain its shape and consistency during coating.
- If you find the filling too sticky or difficult to work with, knead in a bit more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture. Avoid chocolate chips, as they often contain stabilizers that can affect melting.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine, heavy cream with coconut cream, and ensure the chocolate is dairy-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled peppermint patties for the ultimate refreshing treat. These candies pair wonderfully with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or cocoa. They also make excellent additions to dessert platters, gift boxes, or holiday treat bags. For an elevated dessert experience, crumble the patties over ice cream or incorporate them into a mint-chocolate mousse.
Tips
- To make clean, even patties, wipe the cookie cutter with a damp cloth between cuts to prevent sticking.
- Store the patties in an airtight container with layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks and can be frozen for longer storage.
- For a glossy chocolate coating, temper the chocolate by carefully controlling the melting and cooling process. This extra step ensures a smooth, shiny finish and a satisfying snap when bitten into.
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Chilling Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 90 per patty
Protein: 0.5g
Sodium: 10mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use white chocolate for the coating?
A: Yes, white chocolate can be used for a sweeter, creamier flavor. It also works well for creating colorful or decorative patterns.
Q: Can I make these patties ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Homemade peppermint patties store well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to three months.
Q: How can I make the patties vegan?
A: To make vegan peppermint patties, substitute butter with vegan margarine, heavy cream with coconut cream, and use dairy-free chocolate for the coating.
Q: What if my chocolate seizes while melting?
A: If your chocolate seizes, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening and stir gently until smooth. Be sure to avoid any contact with water, as this can cause the chocolate to seize.
Q: Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?
A: Peppermint oil is more concentrated than extract, so use it sparingly. Start with a drop or two and adjust to taste.
Conclusion
Homemade Peppermint Patties are the perfect combination of creamy, minty centers and rich chocolate coatings, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With this comprehensive guide, you can easily make these candies from scratch, ensuring a fresher and more satisfying treat than any store-bought version. Whether you’re preparing them for a festive occasion, gifting them to loved ones, or simply indulging in a personal craving, these patties are sure to impress. Roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a sweet culinary adventure that’s as rewarding to create as it is to enjoy. The refreshing taste of homemade peppermint patties will keep you coming back for more