There’s a certain joy in crafting your own holiday treats, and nothing captures that festive spirit quite like homemade peppermint patties. With a cool, creamy center enveloped in rich chocolate, these delightful candies are not only a breeze to make but also serve as a thoughtful gift or a standout addition to your dessert tray. The no-bake nature of this recipe means you can whip them up quickly, leaving more time to enjoy the cheerful season with loved ones. Plus, adding your personal touch—like festive sprinkles or crushed candy canes—makes these peppermint patties a merry treat for everyone. Are you ready to indulge in the magic of homemade candy this Christmas season?
Why Make Homemade Peppermint Patties?
Delightful Treat: These peppermint patties pack a burst of flavor with every bite, perfectly balancing creamy peppermint and rich chocolate.
No-Bake Simplicity: Designed for ease, this no-bake recipe means you can make them anytime without needing an oven.
Festive Fun: They make for great gifts and can be customized with festive sprinkles, adding a personal touch to your holiday gifts.
Quick Preparation: You can whip them up in no time at all, allowing you to focus on enjoying the festivities rather than spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike, these easy homemade peppermint patties are sure to be the highlight of your dessert tray this holiday! For more delightful ideas, check out how to make your treats memorable with our Holiday Treat Guide.
Peppermint Patties Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to create these delightful homemade peppermint patties!
For the Filling
• Powdered Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; granulated sugar can be used but will alter the texture.
• Coconut Oil – Creates a smooth filling and acts as a base for the chocolate coating; substitute with vegetable oil for a different flavor.
• Peppermint Extract – Gives that refreshing minty flavor; remember, peppermint oil is more concentrated, so use it sparingly.
For the Chocolate Coating
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Forms the rich outer layer for these peppermint patties; you can swap them for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Optional Garnishes
• Festive Sprinkles – Add a pop of color and holiday charm to your patties.
• Crushed Candy Canes – Sprinkle for an extra festive touch that enhances the peppermint flavor.
Indulge yourself in the spirit of the season with these homemade peppermint patties!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, coconut oil, and peppermint extract. Mix until the ingredients form a smooth, creamy texture that holds together well, about 2-3 minutes. Once combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the mixture to firm up for easy shaping.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
After the filling has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the filling and roll them into smooth balls or flatten them into discs, measuring about 1-inch thick. Place each shaped patty onto a lined baking sheet. Chill them in the refrigerator for another 20-30 minutes, ensuring they are firm enough for dipping in chocolate.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the patties firm up, prepare the chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, add dark chocolate chips and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Avoid overheating to prevent seizing. Keep the melted chocolate warm as you prepare to dip each peppermint patty.
Step 4: Dip the Patties
Once the filling patties are firm, carefully dip each one into the melted chocolate, allowing them to be fully coated. Use a fork to lift them out, letting excess chocolate drip off. Place the chocolate-covered patties back onto the lined baking sheet. Work efficiently to ensure that the filling remains cold and firm during this process.
Step 5: Garnish (Optional)
If desired, sprinkle festive decorations like crushed candy canes or colorful sprinkles on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds a delightful touch to your homemade peppermint patties. Allow the chocolate to harden completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate them for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.
Step 6: Store and Enjoy
Once the chocolate has hardened, transfer your irresistible homemade peppermint patties to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to a month, with parchment layers to prevent sticking. Enjoy these festive treats with friends and family!
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties are perfect for meal prep and can save you precious time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the filling mixture up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the powdered sugar, coconut oil, and peppermint extract, then storing it tightly covered in the refrigerator. Additionally, once shaped, the patties can be chilled for another 24 hours before dipping in chocolate. Just remember to keep them well-covered to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to finish the recipe, simply melt the chocolate and dip the chilled patties right before serving, ensuring they remain just as delicious and festive for your family and friends!
Expert Tips for Perfect Peppermint Patties
Chill Thoroughly: Always chill the filling mixture to ensure easy shaping and dipping. This helps maintain the filling’s firmness during the process.
Heat Wisely: When melting chocolate, use short bursts in the microwave. Overheating can lead to a seized texture, ruining your peppermint patties.
Uniform Size: Aim for uniform thickness when shaping patties. This ensures even chocolate coating and a balanced bite every time.
Quick Dipping: Work promptly while dipping to keep the filling cold. If they warm up too much, coating becomes messy, and the shape may suffer.
Experiment Joyfully: Don’t hesitate to try flavor variations or garnishes. Different extracts and decorations can add a unique twist to your classic peppermint patties.
What to Serve with Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties
Indulging in these sweet peppermint delights transports you to a joyful holiday atmosphere that calls for some delightful pairings.
- Rich Hot Chocolate: A velvety cup of hot chocolate perfectly complements the minty freshness, creating a cozy and complementary flavor experience.
- Gingerbread Cookies: The warm spices of gingerbread offer a delightful contrast to the cool peppermint, making each bite a festive taste adventure.
- Chocolate Mousse: Luxuriously creamy and rich, chocolate mousse is a decadent pairing that echoes the rich chocolate coating of the patties.
- Peppermint Sugar Cookies: For added peppermint magic, these cookies bring a delightful crunch and an enchanting vanilla twist that pairs beautifully.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm and fragrant, a mug of spiced apple cider balances the coolness of the peppermint, adding a seasonal touch.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop a dollop of vanilla ice cream alongside, and let the cool, creamy dessert melt into the refreshing mint chocolate.
- Festive Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of fruits like strawberries and oranges brightens your dessert table, enhancing the overall festive feel and palate.
- Red Wine: A glass of fruity red wine brings a touch of elegance to your dessert spread, intensifying the experience of enjoying peppermint patties.
- Chocolate Stout Beer: Pair the patties with a rich chocolate stout for an adventurous twist, uniting sweet and frothy textures in each bite.
Peppermint Patties Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your personal spin on these delightful peppermint patties and get creative in the kitchen!
- Mini Patties: Make smaller, bite-sized versions for a more fun and shareable treat. Perfect for a party platter!
- Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate to create a sweeter, creamier option that kids will love.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan chocolate chips and coconut oil to keep these delicious bites plant-based and friendly for all diets.
- Flavor Fusion: Try adding a dash of orange or almond extract to the filling for a surprising new flavor twist. Unique flavors will make your patties stand out!
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the filling for a spicy surprise that complements the minty coolness perfectly.
- Coating Options: Use white chocolate instead of dark for a snowy look, perfect for decorating during the holidays. Drizzle with colorful melted chocolate for an eye-catching presentation.
- Garnish Choices: Instead of crushed candy canes, experiment with chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for different textures and flavors.
- Add a Crunch: Incorporate some crushed graham crackers into the filling for added texture, making the patties even more delightful!
If you’re interested in more holiday treat ideas, check out our helpful Holiday Treat Guide for more inspiration!
How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Patties
Room Temperature: Store your peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week for optimal freshness.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate them in an airtight container, where they can last for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: To freeze, layer peppermint patties between parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month without losing flavor.
Reheating: Simply let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying, or pop them in the fridge to cool slightly if frozen.
Irresistible Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I select good quality ingredients for my peppermint patties?
Absolutely! When choosing powdered sugar, opt for a fine and dry texture to ensure smooth filling. For coconut oil, look for unrefined or organic varieties for a more natural flavor. As for peppermint extract, try to find pure extracts, as they provide a better flavor profile than artificial ones.
How should I store my peppermint patties for freshness?
To keep your peppermint patties fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to use parchment paper to separate layers if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze peppermint patties, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze peppermint patties, layer them between sheets of parchment paper inside an airtight container. This prevents them from sticking together and keeps them intact. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month without losing flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging.
What if my chocolate coating is seizing up?
Very often, chocolate can seize if overheated or comes in contact with moisture. If you notice your chocolate is clumping, try adding a small amount of coconut oil—about a teaspoon at a time—to the melted chocolate while stirring continuously. This will help bring it back to a smooth consistency, perfect for dipping!
Are these peppermint patties safe for pets or people with allergies?
While delicious for us humans, peppermint patties are not suitable for pets, particularly chocolate, which is toxic to dogs and cats. As for allergies, ensure you’re aware of specific ingredient allergies—especially with coconut oil and chocolate—since these items can cause reactions in some individuals. If you have nut allergies in your circle, check that the chocolate used is nut-free as well.
How can I customize my peppermint patties?
The more the merrier! Feel free to play around with the flavor profiles. You can try using different extracts like vanilla or almond for a unique twist. Adding fun garnishes like crushed candy canes or festive edible glitter is also a great way to elevate their appearance and taste!
Delicious Peppermint Patties: Easy Homemade Holiday Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, coconut oil, and peppermint extract. Mix until smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Cover and chill for 30 minutes.
- Scoop out portions of the filling and roll into smooth balls or flatten into discs, about 1-inch thick. Place on a lined baking sheet and chill for another 20-30 minutes.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until fully melted and smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- Dip each chilled patty into melted chocolate, using a fork to lift and let excess drip off. Place back onto the lined baking sheet.
- Optional: Sprinkle with festive decorations before the chocolate sets. Allow to harden at room temperature for 30 minutes or refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer finished peppermint patties to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerated for two weeks.