Peppermint Patties: A Guide to Making Classic Homemade Treats
Peppermint patties deliver a sweet burst of mint and chocolate in one compact treat. Making them at home is simple and rewarding. This guide covers everything from selecting ingredients to perfecting the technique, with tips for success along the way.
What Are Peppermint Patties?
Peppermint patties are round, bite-sized sweets featuring a creamy peppermint filling covered in a glossy, rich chocolate shell. They offer a unique textural contrast: the soft, cool center meets a crisp outer layer. The appeal lies in their refreshing flavor and their versatility as gifts, holiday treats, or after-dinner delights.
Why Make Peppermint Patties at Home?
Homemade peppermint patties stand apart from their store-bought counterparts. Crafting your own allows you to:
- Control the ingredient quality and freshness.
- Adjust peppermint strength to your taste.
- Add creative twists such as food coloring, different chocolate types, or decorations.
It’s also a satisfying, hands-on activity for all ages.
Ingredient Selection
Each component plays a crucial role in shaping texture and flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Acts as the base for the filling, making it smooth and easy to work with.
Powdered Sugar:
Sweetens and thickens the dough, giving it structure and a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
Peppermint Extract:
Supplies the crisp, cool mint flavor. Extract is preferred over oil because it’s gentler and blends smoothly.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:
Melted for dipping, these form the shell. Aim for a chocolate with at least 55% cocoa solids for rich taste.
Shortening:
Added to the chocolate to thin it. This step helps achieve a glossy finish and even coating.
Optional Additions:
Decorative sprinkles or a touch of food coloring can personalize your patties.
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin, gather these basics:
- Large mixing bowl
- Sturdy spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or nonstick silicone mat
- Baking sheets
- Rolling pin and small round cookie cutter (about 1.5 inches in diameter)
- Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler
Having everything ready ensures a smooth workflow and quick cleanup.
The Step-by-Step Process
Follow these clear, concise steps for flawless peppermint patties:
1. Make the Mint Filling
Combine sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract in the bowl. Mix well, then gradually add powdered sugar. Incorporate the sugar a cup at a time. The dough will get quite stiff; switch to your hands for easier mixing if necessary.
Tips:
– The dough should be soft but not stick to your fingers.
– Add sugar until the mixture holds its shape.
2. Knead and Roll Out
Dust your work surface and rolling pin with powdered sugar. Turn the dough onto the surface and knead for a few minutes until smooth. If sticky, sprinkle on more sugar. Roll dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
3. Cut the Patties
Use a cookie cutter or a round rimmed glass to stamp out disks. Gather scraps, reroll, and cut more rounds until all dough is used.
4. Dry the Disks
Arrange patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Allow them to dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours, flipping them once halfway. This resting period firms up the filling so it withstands dipping without crumbling.
Tip:
– For faster results, chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes after drying.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Coating
Set up a double boiler or use the microwave. Melt the chocolate chips with the shortening. Stir until fully smooth and glossy.
Microwave Tip:
– Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, to avoid scorching the chocolate.
6. Dip the Peppermint Rounds
Drop each peppermint round into the melted chocolate. Use a fork to turn and lift it out, letting excess chocolate drip off. Carefully return to the lined pan.
Decoration:
– Sprinkle with colored sugar or festive sprinkles while coating is still wet.
7. Allow to Set
Let patties sit until chocolate has hardened. This can happen at room temperature or, for speed, in the refrigerator.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage helps these treats last longer while maintaining texture and flavor.
- Refrigerator: Store peppermint patties in a single layer or between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations and Customization
Homemade peppermint patties invite experimentation. Here’s how to make them your own:
- Mix a drop or two of food coloring into the filling for seasonal flair.
- Try flavored extracts—orange, coconut, or even a hint of vanilla for a twist.
- Switch up the chocolate—white, milk, or a blend offers different taste profiles.
- Only dip patties halfway for a striking, two-tone look.
Troubleshooting and Pro Tips
Even experienced bakers encounter occasional hiccups. Here’s how to solve common issues:
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Filling sticks to hands or cutter | Add more powdered sugar, dust hands and cutter well. |
| Chocolate seizes | Melt chocolate slowly, avoid water contact. |
| Patties crack when dipped | Check that filling is not too dry or cold. Allow to warm slightly before dipping. |
| Chocolate shell dulls or streaks | Add sufficient shortening and avoid overhandling chocolate. |
Extra Tips:
- Never substitute peppermint oil for extract; oil is much too concentrated.
- For extremely clean chocolate coatings, use two forks to dip and tap away excess.
- Add a few drops of coconut oil to the chocolate for an extra smooth finish.
Serving and Gifting Ideas
Peppermint patties are versatile for many occasions:
- Arrange on a platter for parties or dessert buffets.
- Box in decorative tins or bags for handmade gifts.
- Wrap individually for favors at weddings or showers.
- Tuck into stockings, lunchboxes, or care packages.
They also make a thoughtful treat to pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use unsweetened chocolate?
You can, but the filling is quite sweet, so bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate tends to work best. If using unsweetened chocolate, add a little extra powdered sugar to the filling.
What’s the best way to achieve consistent round shapes?
A small cookie cutter gives the most uniform rounds, but the rim of a shot glass or small biscuit cutter works too.
Is it necessary to chill the mixture before rolling?
Often, the filling only needs a short knead with powdered sugar to be workable, but if it’s especially soft, a brief chill helps.
Complete Recipe: Quick Reference
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Sweetened condensed milk | 2/3 cup |
| Peppermint extract | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Powdered sugar | 3 1/2 to 4 cups |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 2 cups |
| Shortening | 2 tablespoons |
| Optional sprinkles/decor | As desired |
Yields: About 30 patties (1.5 inch diameter)
Steps at a Glance:
1. Mix condensed milk, extract, and powdered sugar.
2. Knead, roll, and cut rounds.
3. Dry patties for at least 2 hours.
4. Melt chocolate and shortening.
5. Dip each round, decorating if desired.
6. Let chocolate set before eating or storing.
Closing
Peppermint patties blend the perfect balance of creamy coolness and bittersweet chocolate. Making them at home takes little time and gives you the chance to customize every detail, from thickness to flavor intensity. Whether for a holiday tray, a thoughtful gift, or a treat to enjoy year-round, homemade peppermint patties will brighten any occasion.
Peppermint Patties
These homemade peppermint patties are the ultimate holiday treat! They are sweet and refreshing. They are so much better than store-bought candy.
Ingredients
- 6 cups powdered sugar (plus extra for kneading)
- 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
- sprinkles for decoration (optional)
- 4 tablespoons shortening
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar. Add one cup at a time. Continue until a stiff dough begins to form.
- Transfer the dough to a clean surface lightly dusted with powdered sugar. Knead until smooth and no longer sticky. Add extra powdered sugar if needed for a firm consistency.
- Roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a small round cutter (1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter) to cut out circles. Arrange the patties on a baking sheet lined with wax or parchment paper.
- Allow the patties to air-dry at room temperature for at least 2 hours on each side. This step ensures they hold their shape during dipping.
- Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a double boiler. You can also use a heatproof bowl over simmering water. Stir continuously. Continue until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Using a fork, lower each patty into the melted chocolate. Ensure both sides are evenly coated. Lift the patty with the fork. Allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place the dipped patty back onto the wax paper.
- If desired, sprinkle the tops of the freshly dipped patties with festive sprinkles. Do this while the chocolate is still wet.
- Let the chocolate coating harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once the chocolate has set, the peppermint patties are ready to enjoy.
