Homemade Peppermint Patties: Easy, Minty, and Irresistible

The first time I made homemade peppermint patties, I couldn’t believe how easy and fun the process was. The creamy, minty center paired with the rich chocolate coating created a perfect balance of flavor and texture.
They turned out to be a huge hit with my family, and now they’ve become a staple for holidays, parties, or simply a sweet treat for myself.
Plus, making these patties at home means you can customize them to suit your taste, just like I love to customize air fryer apple fries. If you’re ready to bring a little gourmet magic to your kitchen, let’s get started!
Ingredients for Homemade Peppermint Patties
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate these delightful treats. Each ingredient plays an important role in delivering the perfect taste and texture.
For the Filling:
- 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted: Sifting ensures a smooth texture for the filling.
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: Soft butter helps the filling mix well and keeps it creamy.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: The cream brings richness and binds all ingredients together.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons peppermint extract: This is the star ingredient that gives the bold minty flavor.
- A pinch of salt: Don’t skip this—it balances the sweetness perfectly!
For the Coating:
- 10–12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, finely chopped: The better the quality of chocolate, the more decadent the patties.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (optional): Enhances the chocolate’s shine and texture.
Note: The ingredients listed above make approximately 20–25 peppermint patties, depending on their size.
Variations to Try
Making peppermint patties is fun because you can tweak the recipe to suit dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are some creative ideas:
- Dairy-Free Version: Use plant-based butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
- Sugar-Free Option: Opt for powdered erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in place of powdered sugar.
- Boost the Flavor: Add a touch of vanilla extract or swap peppermint for spearmint or even orange extract for a citrus twist.
- Festive Fun: Mix a few drops of food coloring into the filling to make it red, green, or your favorite shade.
You can enjoy them on their own or pairing them with other creative dishes like club sandwich pasta salad for a satisfying craving.
Cooking Time
The total time to whip up this recipe is quick and manageable, even for busy schedules.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: Around 40 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s the list of tools that’ll make the job seamless and stress-free:
- Mixing bowl: For combining the filling ingredients.
- Sifter: To ensure the powdered sugar is lump-free.
- Baking sheet: For placing the shaped patties before freezing.
- Parchment paper or wax paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl: For melting chocolate in a controlled way.
- Fork or dipping tool: Makes dipping the patties into chocolate a breeze.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties
This recipe involves just a few simple steps, but the results are nothing short of spectacular.
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, peppermint extract, and salt in a large bowl. Stir the mixture until it comes together into a dough-like consistency. Then, knead the dough with your hands until it feels smooth and pliable. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more powdered sugar to get the right texture.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Roll the peppermint dough into small balls about 1-inch in diameter. Flatten each ball gently into a disc about 1/4-inch thick. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the discs on it. Pop the tray into the freezer for 20–30 minutes, or until the patties are firm enough to handle.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the patties chill, set up a double boiler or use a microwave to gently melt the chopped chocolate. If you want a shinier finish, mix in a tablespoon of vegetable or coconut oil. Stir frequently to ensure the chocolate is silky smooth.
Step 4: Dip the Patties
Carefully dip each frozen peppermint disc into the melted chocolate using a fork or dipping tool. Ensure the patties are fully coated, then tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to remove excess chocolate. Place the coated patties back onto the baking sheet.
Step 5: Set the Coating
Allow the chocolate-covered peppermint patties to set at room temperature. For faster results, you can refrigerate them for about 15 minutes. Once the chocolate has hardened, your treats are ready to enjoy!
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Here are some of my personal tips to make your peppermint patties truly outstanding:
- Use high-quality chocolate; it makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Chill the patties sufficiently before dipping; it helps keep them solid and easy to coat.
- Don’t skip sifting the powdered sugar—it’s essential for a lump-free, creamy filling.
- If the chocolate starts to harden midway, gently reheat it to maintain its consistency.
- Adding crushed peppermint candies on top before the chocolate sets adds a festive flair!
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties
These peppermint patties are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them with some simple presentation ideas:
- On a Dessert Platter: Pair them with cookies or truffles for a chic dessert board.
- Gift Boxes: Wrap the patties in decorative paper or foil and place them in a box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
- Garnish Ideas: Sprinkle sea salt, edible glitter, or drizzle melted white chocolate on top for added allure.
If you’re looking for more inspiration recipes, you can check out this list of dinner recipes.
Nutritional Information
These treats are rich yet worth every bite! Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 11g
How to Store Homemade Peppermint Patties
Storing peppermint patties properly ensures they stay fresh longer:
- Refrigerate: Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze: Place them in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll last up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Frozen patties can be enjoyed straight from the freezer or thawed in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are some of the reasons why I know you’ll enjoy these peppermint patties:
- Super Easy to Make: The steps are beginner-friendly and almost foolproof.
- Customizable: You can tweak flavors and colors for any occasion.
- Diet-Friendly Options: They’re easily adaptable for different dietary needs, like sugar-free or dairy-free.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: They store well, so you can prepare them in advance for parties or holidays.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their indulgent flavor and charming appearance are sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate works beautifully if you prefer a sweeter coating.
How do I avoid the filling being too sticky?
If the filling seems sticky, simply add more powdered sugar a little at a time until the consistency improves.
Can peppermint patties be made vegan?
Absolutely! Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and a vegan dark chocolate for a delicious vegan version.
What’s the best way to crush peppermint candies?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. This method keeps the mess contained!