Homemade Peppermint Patties Treat

This homemade peppermint patties recipe has completely changed the way I feel about holiday treats, making it my family's most requested Christmas dessert every December. In just 15 minutes of prep plus 25 minutes to chill and dip, you can make creamy, minty peppermint patties with a chocolate shell and only five simple ingredients. If you're searching for a quick and festive easy Christmas peppermint patties recipe, these homemade treats are about to become your go to for every celebration.

I first made these chocolate peppermint patties on a snowy December afternoon when I wanted a fast, festive treat to brighten the winter. I never imagined handmade peppermint patties could taste fresher or creamier than anything store bought, but my little taste testers now beg for a batch every year. Whenever I dip the cool peppermint rounds into warm chocolate, the kitchen fills with the classic aroma that makes homemade Christmas candy so special.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk for creamy filling: This ingredient brings that rich yet smooth center; choose a high quality brand for the best texture and sweetness, or use coconut condensed milk for a dairy free option
• Peppermint extract for cool mint flavor: Provides the signature bright flavor of peppermint patties; use pure peppermint extract rather than imitation for a cleaner, more authentic taste
• Vanilla extract for depth: Even a small amount enhances the flavor complexity and rounds out the mint, so do not leave it out
• Powdered sugar for structure: Four cups give the filling its pliable, creamy texture and just the right amount of sweetness; sifted is best to avoid lumps, and have extra for rolling so nothing sticks
• Dark melting or dipping chocolate for coating: Gives the glossy shell; use chocolate designed for melting or dipping so the coating sets up smooth, or substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter version

How to Make Homemade Peppermies Patties

Make the Peppermint Base:

Combine the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer bowl. With the mixer on low, add half the powdered sugar, then gradually mix in the remaining sugar until you have a stiff but pliable dough that no longer sticks to the bowl. The filling should feel smooth, not wet, and hold its shape when pressed, typically after about 2 to 3 minutes of mixing.

Knead and Roll the Dough:

Dust a piece of parchment paper with about three tablespoons of powdered sugar. Turn out the dough and gently knead it a few times to combine thoroughly. Roll it out to about one half inch thickness with a rolling pin, keeping the surface and your hands coated in powdered sugar so the dough does not stick. Use a gentle, even pressure for best results.

Cut the Patties:

With a small round cookie cutter or the rim of a glass, cut circles about one to one and a half inches wide. If the dough gets soft or sticky, place it in the freezer for fifteen minutes and try again. Transfer each cut patty onto a parchment lined baking sheet as you work, spacing them slightly apart.

Chill the Centers:

Freeze the tray of peppermint rounds for fifteen minutes. Chilling keeps the patties firm so they hold together when dipped, and also helps the chocolate set smoothly.

Melt the Chocolate:

Place the dark dipping chocolate in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in thirty second bursts, stirring after each, until melted and glossy, which usually takes one and a half to two minutes total. Cool the chocolate for about three to four minutes so it does not melt the peppermint centers during dipping.

Dip the Patties:

Use a fork to lift each peppermint patty and dip it into the melted chocolate, flipping to coat both sides. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing each coated patty back on the parchment sheet. Work quickly so the chocolate stays smooth, and add sprinkles or decorations while the coating is still soft.

Chill and Enjoy:

Return the tray to the refrigerator for twenty minutes or until the chocolate has set and is firm to the touch. Once fully chilled, peel the peppermint patties off the parchment and enjoy, or package for gifting.

When I first experimented with a pinch of salt in the chocolate, I found it played up the cool, creamy peppermint filling perfectly. It has become our family tradition to sneak a tray of these easy Christmas peppermint patties into the fridge before a holiday movie night—seeing the anticipation on everyone's faces is the best part. This recipe not only brings a dose of nostalgia, it is easy to adapt for any occasion or dietary preference.

Smart Swaps and Variations

To make dairy free peppermint patties, simply swap in vegan sweetened condensed milk and dairy free chocolate. If you prefer a milder mint or want something colorful, replace part of the peppermint extract with coconut or orange, and tint the filling using plant based coloring. For added fun, sprinkle crushed peppermint candy or colored sprinkles onto the chocolate while soft. You can even try swapping the chocolate shell for white or milk chocolate for a different flavor profile and festive look, or shape the filling with seasonal cutters for special occasions.

How to Store and Reheat Homemade Peppermint Patties

Store your homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Stack them with parchment paper between layers to keep the chocolate shiny and prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze patties in a single layer or with parchment between for up to three months, using a freezer safe container to avoid freezer burn. When ready to serve, thaw patties overnight in the refrigerator so the chocolate stays smooth and dry. If prepping ahead for a party or gifting, freeze the dipped patties and let them chill in the fridge the day before for best taste and texture.

What to Serve with Homemade Peppermint Patties

Homemade chocolate covered peppermint patties pair beautifully with a holiday dessert platter including gingerbread cookies, shortbread, or nutty biscotti. They complement rich drinks like peppermint hot chocolate or espresso for winter parties, and can be stacked in a glass jar or displayed on a cake stand as a festive centerpiece. Because these patties are rich, one or two pieces per guest is usually just right, making them ideal for sharing and gifting during the Christmas season.

Nutritional Benefits

Peppermint patties are a refreshing, lighter bite compared to many rich holiday candies, and are naturally vegetarian. They are also easy to adapt for gluten free or dairy free diets with simple substitutions. The peppermint extract aids in digestion after big meals, and each serving offers about 330 calories along with a modest balance of carbs, protein, and fat, making them a festive and shareable sweet that fits various dietary preferences.

Recipe Success Tips

If your dough becomes sticky during rolling or cutting, chill it in the refrigerator or freezer as needed for about fifteen minutes each time. Always use high quality melting chocolate specifically for candy making, as regular chocolate chips can create dull or streaked coatings. Making sure the centers are fully chilled before dipping is key for smooth, shiny chocolate and perfect texture in every bite. For troubleshooting, if your chocolate thickens while dipping, microwave for fifteen seconds and stir for a smooth finish.

These homemade peppermint patties are a delightful, simple way to add classic chocolate mint flavor to your holiday celebrations and beyond. Give them a try with your family this season and see if they become your new festive favorite too!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used for coating if you prefer a sweeter flavor. Dark chocolate adds a richer contrast to the peppermint, but both work well.

→ How do I prevent the patties from sticking during shaping?

Sprinkle extra powdered sugar on the parchment paper and on top of the dough while rolling and cutting to avoid sticking.

→ Can the dough be made ahead of time?

Yes, the dough can be mixed and stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly, for up to 24 hours before shaping and coating in chocolate.

→ Is it possible to freeze peppermint patties?

Absolutely. Once coated and set, peppermint patties can be frozen for several weeks in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

→ How should I store finished peppermint patties?

Store finished patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. They can also be kept at room temperature in cooler climates.