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Homemade Peppermint Patties

Name: Homemade Peppermint Patties
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 4 cups (about 1 pound) powdered sugar, sifted; 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk, plus more if needed; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract (or to taste); A pinch of salt; 16 ounces (about 2 2/3 cups) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate; 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional)

There’s something undeniably delightful about biting into a peppermint patty. The combination of a creamy, minty center wrapped in a smooth layer of chocolate offers a burst of flavor that feels both refreshing and indulgent. Imagine crafting these delightful candies in the comfort of your home, allowing you to personalize them to your taste. Homemade peppermint patties are not just a treat; they are a sensory journey that brings back memories of holiday gatherings and sweet surprises.

Whether you’re preparing for a festive occasion or simply want a sweet treat to enjoy with friends, homemade peppermint patties will become a staple in your repertoire. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also offer a unique opportunity to customize the flavors and textures according to your preferences. Let’s dive into why this recipe is not just worth trying but is also a fantastic addition to your cooking adventures.

Why Make This Recipe

Refreshing Flavor: The cool mint paired with rich chocolate creates a perfect balance that tantalizes your taste buds.
Customizable Experience: You can adjust the mintiness, chocolate type, and even the shape to suit your desires or occasions.
Homemade Joy: There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from making candy from scratch, especially when sharing with family and friends.

Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore how to make these mouthwatering treats from scratch!

Easy Method for Homemade Peppermint Patties

Making your own peppermint patties may sound intimidating at first, but it’s a straightforward process that anyone can follow. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started. You will be surprised at how easily you can achieve the rich, smooth texture and bold flavor that make commercial brands so beloved.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you begin:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
4 cups (about 1 pound) powdered sugar, sifted
1/4 cup heavy cream or milk, plus more if needed
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract (or to taste; start with 1/2 teaspoon if unsure)
A pinch of salt
16 ounces (about 2 2/3 cups) good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped baking chocolate
2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, helps with shine and smoothness)

Directions

Prepare Workspace and Ingredients

To kick things off, line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will keep your peppermint patties from sticking once they’re formed. Make sure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming.

Cream the Butter

In a large mixing bowl, take an electric mixer and beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This is a crucial step that helps create a soft, creamy center in your patties.

Add Liquids and Extracts

Next, lower the mixer speed to a gentle stir and gradually incorporate the heavy cream (or milk), vanilla extract, peppermint extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is just combined; you want to be careful not to overmix at this stage.

Incorporate Powdered Sugar

With the mixer still on low speed, add in the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time. Mixing each addition until fully incorporated ensures a smooth filling and prevents lumps. This step is vital for getting that perfect, creamy texture throughout.

Adjust Consistency

If your mixture is feeling a bit too dry, don’t hesitate to add more heavy cream (1 teaspoon at a time) until you achieve a cohesive mixture. If it ends up too sticky, sprinkle in a little more sifted powdered sugar (1–2 tablespoons at a time). Ideally, the mixture should resemble a thick play-doh consistency.

Final Mix and Scrape

To ensure everything is well combined, ramp up your mixer speed to medium-high for about 30-60 seconds. This gives the filling a beautiful smoothness that’s signature to peppermint patties. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to integrate all the ingredients.

Portion the Dough

Using a small cookie scoop (aim for about 1-inch in diameter) or a tablespoon, scoop even portions of the peppermint filling onto your prepared baking sheets.

Roll and Flatten

Gently roll each scooped portion into a smooth ball between your palms. Then, flatten them into disc shapes that are about 1/4 to 1/3 inches thick and 1.5 to 2 inches wide.

Chill the Peppermint Patties

Place the formed patties on the baking sheets and stash them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or pop them in the freezer for 15–20 minutes. This chilling step is crucial as it firms them up, making them ready for dipping.

Melt Chocolate Coating (Double Boiler Method)

Next, we need to prepare the chocolate coating. Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan with simmering water (make sure the bowl does not touch the water). Add in your chocolate chips (or chopped baking chocolate) and the optional coconut oil or shortening. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and glossy, keeping the heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate.

Melt Chocolate Coating (Microwave Method)

If you prefer a quicker route, place the chocolate and optional coconut oil or shortening in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium (50%) power at 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until the chocolate is completely smooth. Just be careful — don’t overheat the chocolate as it can seize up.

Prepare Dipping Station

Retrieve the chilled patties from the refrigerator or freezer. Arrange them alongside the melted chocolate. You’ll also want to have a second parchment-lined baking sheet and some dipping tools at the ready.

Dip the Patties

Working swiftly, drop one chilled patty into the melted chocolate. Use a fork to turn it over and ensure it is fully coated. Once evenly covered, lift the patty out and gently tap the fork on the side of the bowl to allow excess chocolate to drip off, then transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.

Optional: Double Dip

For a luxurious, thicker chocolate shell, allow the first coating to set completely (this usually takes 10–15 minutes in the fridge), and then dip the patties a second time for an extra layer of chocolate goodness.

Optional: Garnish

If you want to get a bit fancy, drizzle any remaining melted chocolate over the dipped patties in decorative patterns or sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before the chocolate sets for a contrasting flavor experience.

Allow Chocolate to Set

Once you’ve dipped all the patties, place the baking sheets back into the refrigerator for at least 15–30 minutes, or until the chocolate coating is fully firm and set. The anticipation is almost as sweet as the treat itself!

Transfer and Enjoy

Once the chocolate has set, carefully peel the peppermint patties from the parchment paper and enjoy immediately! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of biting into a homemade candy that you made with love.

Storage Tips for Homemade Peppermint Patties

To keep your minty delights fresh and flavorful, consider these storage recommendations:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5–7 days, ensuring they are placed in a cool, dry place.
If you’d like them to last longer, they can be stored in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks. The cold will help maintain their firmness.
For long-term preservation, peppermint patties can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator before serving to retain their creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions for Homemade Peppermint Patties

These homemade peppermint patties are versatile for various occasions. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

As Party Favors: Package them in decorative cellophane bags and tie with festive ribbons for holiday gatherings or birthdays.
Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a dessert platter alongside other treats like brownie bites, fudge, or mini cheesecakes for an impressive display.
Hot Beverage Pairing: Pair them with your favorite hot chocolate or peppermint tea for a cozy evening. They make a perfect match for a warm cup of cocoa on a chilly night.
Gift Ideas: Homemade peppermint patties wrapped in a beautiful box can make thoughtful gifts for friends and neighbors during the holidays.

Tips to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties

Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
Always sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps in your filling.
Make sure your chocolate is at the right temperature when dipping to achieve a smooth, glossy finish.
Experiment with different types of chocolate, like dark or white chocolate, for a unique twist.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a couple of ideas to consider:

Colorful Coatings: Instead of traditional chocolate, try using colored candy melts or a combination of different chocolates for a fun, visually appealing twist.
Flavor Variations: If peppermint isn’t your thing, consider swapping it for other flavor extracts such as orange or almond to create distinct seasonal variations.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! These peppermint patties can be made ahead of time and stored as directed. They actually taste better after chilling since the flavors marry together.

What type of chocolate works best for coating?
A: Semi-sweet chocolate is commonly used for a balance between sweetness and richness, but feel free to experiment with dark or even white chocolate for a different flavor experience.

How can I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
A: To avoid this, make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry before melting chocolate. Also, take care not to overheat it as that can lead to a grainy texture.

Q: Can I use different extracts instead of peppermint?
A: Yes! This recipe allows for creativity. You could use orange extract for a citrusy kick or even a dash of espresso powder for a chocolate coffee flavor.

Creating homemade peppermint patties offers not just a sweet reward but also an enjoyable culinary adventure. You’ll savor the journey from mixing the bright, minty filling to watching them get enveloped in velvety chocolate. The joy of crafting these treats is something you will recall fondly every time they make an appearance, offering a little bit of nostalgia with each nibble. So, gather your ingredients, bring your loved ones into the kitchen, and indulge in making something that is undoubtedly a classic favorite for all. Enjoy!