Homemade Peppermint Patties

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Every year around the holidays, I find myself reaching for something nostalgic, minty, and dipped in chocolate. That’s exactly why I adore making Homemade Peppermint Patties. There’s something undeniably magical about the snap of rich dark chocolate meeting the cool, creamy peppermint center — and they’re surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen. Not only do they taste better than store-bought, but they also make for delightful gifts or festive additions to your dessert spread.

Making these patties has become a tradition I truly cherish. Whether I’m packaging them in cellophane for friends or sneaking a few from the fridge for a quick sweet fix, they never fail to make the season feel more joyful. If you’ve never tried making your own peppermint patties, you’re in for a treat that’s both fun and deeply satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe

If you love that classic chocolate-mint combo, these peppermint patties will hit the spot. They’re:

• Made with simple pantry staples
• No-bake and easy to assemble
• Customizable with festive toppings like sprinkles
• Perfect for gifting or holiday dessert trays
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved

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What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

For the best results, I recommend using a high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate. Melting wafers or baking bars work wonderfully since they melt smoothly and harden with a nice glossy finish. If you prefer milk chocolate, you can certainly use that, but keep in mind the sweetness balance with the mint filling. You can also experiment with white chocolate for a beautiful contrast.

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Options for Substitutions

• Peppermint Extract: You can use peppermint oil, but it’s much stronger than extract—use only a few drops.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: If you’re avoiding dairy, you can try a coconut-based condensed milk alternative.
• Powdered Sugar: A low-sugar alternative like Swerve Confectioners can work for a lower-carb version.
• Chocolate Coating: Use dairy-free chocolate chips or vegan chocolate bars for a plant-based twist.
• Decorations: Swap the sprinkles with crushed candy canes or drizzle with white chocolate for variety.

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Ingredients for This Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe

• Powdered Sugar: Acts as the base for the creamy filling, giving it structure and sweetness.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds richness and helps bind the peppermint filling into a smooth dough.
• Peppermint Extract: Delivers the signature cool minty flavor — just a small amount goes a long way.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sharpness of peppermint.
• Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate: Creates the glossy, rich shell that encases the filling.
• Coconut Oil (optional): Helps to thin out the melted chocolate and ensures a smooth coating.
• Sprinkles or Crushed Candy Canes: Optional, but adds festive flair and texture.

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Step 1: Make the Peppermint Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until a thick, pliable dough forms. It should be soft but not sticky — similar to play dough. Add more powdered sugar if it feels too wet.

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Step 2: Shape the Patties

Scoop out small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Flatten gently between your palms into round discs about 1/4-inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

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Step 3: Chill the Discs

Refrigerate the shaped discs for at least 30 minutes, or until firm. This helps them hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.

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Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate with coconut oil (if using) over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring frequently, until smooth and glossy.

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Step 5: Dip the Patties

Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each chilled peppermint disc into the melted chocolate. Allow excess chocolate to drip off, then transfer back to the parchment-lined sheet. Quickly top with sprinkles or crushed candy canes before the chocolate sets.

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Step 6: Let Them Set

Let the patties rest at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, they’re ready to enjoy or package up as gifts!

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How Long to Prepare the Homemade Peppermint Patties

Preparation Time: Most of the time goes into mixing and shaping the peppermint filling, which takes about 20–25 minutes. Dipping them in chocolate adds another 15 minutes depending on how many patties you’re making. If you’re decorating them, that might take an extra 5 minutes.

Chilling Time: Once shaped, the patties need to be chilled for at least 30 minutes to firm up before dipping. After dipping, another 15–20 minutes of chill time is ideal to set the chocolate completely. So in total, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Homemade Peppermint Patties

• Sift your powdered sugar to avoid lumps in the filling.
• Don’t overdo the peppermint extract—start with less, taste, and adjust.
• If your filling is too sticky, add a little extra powdered sugar until it’s manageable.
• Use a fork to dip the patties into chocolate to ensure even coating and minimal mess.
• Chill the patties well before and after dipping to prevent them from falling apart or melting.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much peppermint extract: It can overpower the flavor and make the patties taste medicinal.
• Skipping the chilling step: The filling will be too soft and difficult to dip.
• Overheating the chocolate: It can seize or burn — always melt slowly and stir frequently.
• Not tapping off excess chocolate: Too much chocolate can pool around the patties and cause uneven coating.
• Storing them warm: Heat will melt the chocolate coating or cause sweating — always store in a cool place.

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What to Serve With Homemade Peppermint Patties?

1. Hot Chocolate

Pair with a creamy mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate winter dessert combo.

2. Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the patties beautifully.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

Chop up the patties and sprinkle over vanilla ice cream for a festive twist.

4. Holiday Cookie Platter

Add these to a tray with sugar cookies, gingerbread men, and fudge.

5. Sparkling Wine

A crisp sparkling wine makes for an elegant contrast to the rich chocolate and mint.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If your home is cool, the patties can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Refrigerator: Keep them chilled in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezer: These freeze wonderfully. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge for an hour before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per piece (assuming recipe yields 24 patties):

• Calories: ~120 kcal
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Sugar: 17g
• Protein: <1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 10mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these peppermint patties vegan?

Yes! Use dairy-free sweetened condensed milk and vegan chocolate.

How far in advance can I make these?

They can be made up to 2 weeks ahead if stored in the refrigerator, or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I use a different flavor extract?

Absolutely. Try orange, almond, or coconut extract for unique twists.

How do I prevent the filling from sticking to my hands?

Dust your hands with powdered sugar or lightly grease them with neutral oil.

Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

Nope! This is a no-cook recipe for the filling, so no thermometer is required.

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Conclusion

Homemade Peppermint Patties are one of those simple yet impressive treats that everyone loves. They come together with just a few ingredients, are easy to make festive with decorations, and taste far better than anything you’ll find in a wrapper. Whether you’re gifting them or treating yourself, they bring cool, creamy, chocolatey joy to every bite. Make a batch (or two!) and enjoy the holiday magic.

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