Name: Decadent Peppermint Patties: Easy Holiday Treats to Make
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk (Adds rich, creamy sweetness; no direct substitution recommended.); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (Provides the signature mint flavor; add more for intensity.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Rounds out flavor; almond extract can serve as a substitute.); 2 cups Powdered Sugar (Forms doughy texture; ensure enough is on hand.); 8 ounces Dark Melting/Dipping Chocolate (Coats the patties; milk or white chocolate can be used.); Optional Sprinkles (For decoration and festive flair.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of cool peppermint wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. That’s when I realized, it was time to whip up a batch of Homemade Peppermint Patties. This easy, no-bake treat combines just five simple ingredients, making it a breeze to prepare while impressing friends and family alike. Not only do these peppermint patties bring a crowd-pleasing twist to your dessert table, but they’re also incredibly fun to customize with different chocolate types and mint intensity. Plus, they make for delightful homemade gifts that anyone would love to receive! Are you ready to elevate your dessert game and create treats that are as delicious as they are festive? Let’s dive into this easy recipe together!

Why Are These Peppermint Patties Irresistible?

Easy Preparation: With just five simple ingredients, this no-bake recipe saves you time without compromising flavor. Perfect for busy home cooks!

Customizable Delight: You can easily tailor the flavor by adjusting the mint intensity or experimenting with different types of chocolate, making each batch uniquely yours.

Festive Presentation: Whether for a holiday gathering or a sweet homemade gift, their beautiful finish topped with decorative sprinkles ensures they’ll steal the spotlight!

Refreshingly Minty: These patties deliver a creamy, cool burst of mint that contrasts deliciously with the rich chocolate coating, providing a satisfying treat for all ages.

Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about these delights, making them the perfect addition to any celebration! They also pair wonderfully with a warm cup of cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.

Embrace the festive spirit and rediscover a family favorite with these homemade treats that are sure to impress!

Peppermint Patties Ingredients

• Perfect for creating the freshest minty treats!

For the Filling

Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds rich, creamy sweetness to the filling. No direct substitution recommended.
Peppermint Extract – Provides the signature mint flavor essential to the recipe; you can add extra for a more intense mintiness.
Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors for balance; almond extract can serve as a substitute.
Powdered Sugar – Forms the doughy texture of the filling; ensure enough is on hand to prevent sticking during preparation.

For the Chocolate Coating

Dark Melting/Dipping Chocolate – Coats the patties for a delicious finish; milk or white chocolate can be used for a sweeter alternative.
Optional Sprinkles – For decoration and festive flair, especially for holiday occasions.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Begin by combining the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract in a stand mixer. Slowly mix in the powdered sugar until a smooth, dough-like consistency forms, about 3-5 minutes. Dust a clean surface with powdered sugar and gently knead the mixture. Roll the dough into ½-inch thick circles, and use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place the patties on a parchment-lined plate and freeze for 15 minutes until firm.

Step 2: Chocolate Coating
While the patties chill, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth and glossy, about 1-2 minutes total. Remove the frozen peppermint patties from the freezer, and one by one, dip each patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.

Step 3: Set the Patties
After each peppermint patty is dipped in chocolate, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with festive decorations or colored sprinkles immediately after coating. Refrigerate the patties for about 20 minutes, allowing the chocolate to set completely and form a delightful, crisp shell that perfectly complements the creamy filling.

Step 4: Storage and Serving
Once the chocolate has set, transfer your homemade peppermint patties to an airtight container for storage. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Serve them chilled for a refreshing treat or package them beautifully as thoughtful gifts. Indulge in the refreshing minty goodness of your homemade peppermint patties!

Make Ahead Options

These Homemade Peppermint Patties are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar, then roll out and cut the shapes. Place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate overnight to keep them fresh. For even better results, after cutting the patties, freeze them for about 15 minutes before coating. When it’s time to serve, just melt the chocolate, dip the chilled patties, and let the chocolate set for about 20 minutes. This way, you’ll have delightful, homemade peppermint patties ready to impress with minimal last-minute work!

What to Serve with Homemade Peppermint Patties

Delight your senses by creating a full meal experience to complement these festive minty treats.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of homemade hot chocolate enhances the coolness of peppermint, creating a perfect sweet harmony.
Chocolate Fudge Brownies: The fudgy, dense texture of brownies pairs beautifully with the light, airy peppermint patties, offering a delightful contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoops of creamy vanilla ice cream balance the mint’s brightness, making for a refreshing treat after a heavy meal.
Gourmet Coffee: A hot cup of robust coffee counteracts the sweetness perfectly, while the richness highlights the smoothness of the patties.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in a chai latte create a cozy atmosphere, beautifully complementing the refreshing mint flavors.
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries and apples add a crisp, refreshing element that clears the palate between sweet bites.

Pairing these with your peppermint patties transforms dessert into an unforgettable experience, leaving everyone craving more!

Expert Tips for Peppermint Patties

Chill for Ease: Refrigerate the dough between cuts if it becomes too soft, ensuring perfectly shaped patties every time.
Chocolate Consistency: Avoid overheating the chocolate; it should be warm enough to dip but not too hot to lose that glossy finish when coating.
Minty Boost: If you love intense flavor, consider adding an extra ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract for a more pronounced minty taste in your peppermint patties.
Proper Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze. Thaw in the fridge to maintain quality when ready to enjoy.
Fun with Sprinkles: Get creative by decorating with festive sprinkles or colored sugar, enhancing both presentation and the holiday spirit!

Peppermint Patties Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to sprinkle a little creativity into these peppermint patties and make them truly your own!

Milk Chocolate Lovers: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate for a sweeter treat that caters to those with a sweet tooth.
Extra Minty: For a refreshing burst, add an extra ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract, amplifying that minty goodness.
Festive Sprinkles: Brighten up your patties by decorating with seasonal sprinkles, like red and green for Christmas or pastel colors for Easter.
Nutty Twist: Substitute vanilla extract with almond extract for a delightful nutty note that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream in place of sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly treat that everyone can enjoy!
Flavor Fusion: Get adventurous by adding a hint of espresso powder to the filling for a luxurious coffee-chocolate mint experience. How about pairing these chocolatey delights with a warm cup of your favorite brew?
Crunchy Texture: Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the chocolate coating before it sets for an exciting crunch and extra holiday flavor.
Heat Things Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling for a kick that contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the patties.

These variations not only bring a personal touch but transform each batch into a unique experience for you and your loved ones. For a cozy evening, pair them with a delightful Peppermint Hot Chocolate or wrap them beautifully in a homemade gift box as a sweet surprise!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Patties

Room Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container for up to 2 days, but refrigeration is recommended for best texture.

Fridge: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their creamy texture and fresh mint flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze peppermint patties in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat peppermint patties; simply serve them chilled for a refreshing treat that everyone will love!

Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my peppermint patties?
Absolutely! The key ingredient here is sweetened condensed milk, which should be fresh with no signs of spoilage. Check the expiration date and look for a can with a smooth, undented surface. For the mint flavor, high-quality peppermint extract makes a big difference, so opt for pure extract rather than imitation, as it enhances the overall flavor profile.

How should I store my peppermint patties?
Very! For optimal freshness, store your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If they start to lose their nice texture, try placing a piece of wax paper between layers to prevent sticking. If you decide to freeze them, you can keep them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container, and don’t forget to thaw them in the fridge for the best quality!

Can I freeze peppermint patties? If so, how?
Yes, indeed! Freezing is simple: just place your peppermint patties in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for about 30 minutes until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag, separating layers with wax paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the patties in the fridge overnight for the best taste and texture.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky to handle?
If you find your dough is sticking as you roll and cut, don’t worry! This happens sometimes. I recommend lightly dusting your work surface and your hands with extra powdered sugar. If needed, refrigerate the dough for about 10-15 minutes to firm it up. This makes it easier to roll out and shape without being too sticky!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Definitely consider that peppermint patties contain both chocolate and peppermint extract, which are not safe for pets, especially dogs. If you have allergies to any ingredients, such as nuts or dairy, be sure to choose substitutes accordingly, like vegan chocolate for a dairy-free option. Always check labels when selecting your ingredients to ensure they meet any dietary needs!