Peppermint patties are one of those classic treats that always bring a little extra joy to any occasion. With just five simple ingredients, you can whip up these cool, creamy, and chocolatey treats right in your own kitchen! This recipe is one of my go-tos when I want to impress friends and family—my kids can’t get enough, especially when I add sprinkles for some festive fun!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 5 Ingredients: Simple, quick, and easy with pantry staples.
- Cool & Refreshing: That peppermint flavor gives it such a refreshing kick.
- Fun to Make: Perfect for getting the kids involved in the kitchen (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t love homemade candy?).
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk: This adds a rich, creamy sweetness to the filling.
- 1 ¼ teaspoons peppermint extract: The star of the show—gives these patties that classic peppermint flavor.
- ⅛ teaspoon vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla rounds out the flavors.
- 4 cups powdered sugar, plus extra for sprinkling: Helps form that perfect doughy texture for the filling.
- 2 cups dark melting/dipping chocolate: Because everything is better when dipped in chocolate!
- Optional: sprinkles: For some extra flair, especially if you’re making these for a holiday.
Variations
- Milk Chocolate Lovers: Swap out the dark chocolate for milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter coating.
- Extra Minty: If you’re all about that minty freshness, feel free to add an extra ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Holiday Flair: Add festive sprinkles or colored sugar for seasonal fun—think red and green for Christmas, or pastels for Easter.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Filling
In a stand mixer, combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. With the mixer on low, gradually add half of the powdered sugar. Continue adding the remaining powdered sugar bit by bit until a dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and Roll
Sprinkle about 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar on a piece of parchment paper. Take the dough and knead it a few times to ensure it’s smooth and well combined. Roll the dough into a ½-inch thick circle, keeping some powdered sugar on top to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Cut the Patties
Using a cookie cutter (or the top of a small glass), cut out 1 to 1 ½-inch circles from the dough. If the dough gets too soft, just pop it in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting again. Place the cut patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for another 15 minutes.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
Melt the dark chocolate in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval to avoid burning. Once smooth, let the chocolate sit for 3-4 minutes to cool slightly.
Step 5: Dip and Decorate
Using a fork, dip each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Place the dipped patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some festive sprinkles on top before the chocolate hardens. Refrigerate for 20 minutes to let everything set.
How to Serve
These peppermint patties are perfect for serving as a cool, refreshing treat after dinner. They also make great gifts during the holiday season—just package them up in a cute box or bag, and you’ve got a homemade gift that’ll impress anyone!
Make Ahead
You can make these peppermint patties up to 3 days ahead. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Can I freeze these peppermint patties?
Yes! These freeze beautifully. Just pop them into an airtight container, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge when you’re ready to serve.
Do I have to use dark chocolate?
Not at all! If you prefer a sweeter coating, feel free to use milk or white chocolate instead.
Conclusion
There you have it—Homemade Peppermint Patties that are just as cool and delicious as the store-bought ones but with a fun, homemade twist. These are perfect for special occasions, holidays, or just whenever you’re craving that perfect combo of peppermint and chocolate. Enjoy!