Homemade Peppermint Patties Five

These homemade peppermint patties are the chocolate mint treat I reach for when I want something that tastes like childhood holidays but comes together with little fuss. With just five pantry-friendly ingredients you can whip up a batch that tastes fresher and creamier than store-bought. They are a hit at parties and make a thoughtful edible gift for friends or neighbors especially when adorned with a sprinkle of festive toppings.

Even my mint-averse friends grab seconds of these homemade patties I whipped them up for a last-minute dessert tray and they disappeared in under ten minutes.

Ingredients

• Sweetened condensed milk: Essential for binding and giving that silky creamy center Choose full-fat for the richest result
• Peppermint extract: Delivers the fresh tingling minty flavor Do not substitute with mint extract for a classic flavor
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the sharpness of the mint Use pure vanilla for the best aroma
• Powdered sugar: Creates the dough and brings structure Make sure it is sifted well to keep the center smooth not gritty
• Dark melting or dipping chocolate: Enrobes the filling and contrasts beautifully with the sweet mint Look for high-cocoa content for a bolder chocolaty bite

Instructions

Prep the Mint Dough:

Combine sweetened condensed milk peppermint extract and vanilla extract in a stand mixer bowl. Blend on low speed until everything is combined then add half the powdered sugar. Beat for about two minutes until the dough starts to come together. Slowly beat in the remaining powdered sugar scraping down the bowl. The consistency should be thick and slightly sticky but hold its shape.

Shape the Patties:

Turn the dough onto a parchment-lined work surface. Dust your hands and rolling pin with powdered sugar. Gently knead the dough two or three times to make sure everything is mixed evenly. Roll it out to about a half inch thickness. Try to keep the circle even to avoid super thin edges. If it sticks add a touch more sugar to the dough or surface.

Cut and Freeze:

Press out rounds with a two-inch cookie cutter and place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them into the freezer for at least fifteen minutes. This chilling step is key so the patties are firm and do not lose shape when coated in chocolate.

Melt and Dip:

In a microwave-safe bowl place the dark chocolate. Heat in fifteen-second bursts stirring between each until fully melted and smooth. Let it cool for two to three minutes you want it pourable but not so hot that it melts the filling. Dip each patty into the chocolate using a fork to help coat and let excess drip off before placing back on the parchment.

Chill and Set:

Once all patties are coated slide the tray into the fridge for twenty minutes. This firms up the chocolate so it is shiny and snappy to bite. After this the peppermint patties are ready to serve or store.

I love that the peppermint extract gives a clean fresh flavor Not a year goes by when we do not make these for both our family cookie box and teacher gifts I remember my mom letting me dip them as a kid the kitchen always smelled of cool sweet mint.

Storage Tips

Store finished peppermint patties in an airtight container lined with parchment paper Each layer should be separated to prevent sticking Refrigeration is best giving two to three weeks of freshness For longer storage freeze in a single layer before transferring to a zip bag They thaw in minutes at room temp.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap dark chocolate for milk or white chocolate for a sweeter less intense finish Use coconut condensed milk if you need a dairy-free version Add colored chocolate or sprinkles to suit birthdays holidays or whatever fun occasion arises.

Serving Suggestions

Serve peppermint patties after dinner with coffee or tea Crumble a few over vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert sandwich between chocolate chip cookies for a decadent minty treat or package small stacks in mini cellophane bags with a ribbon for cute homemade gifts.

Cultural or Historical Context

Peppermint patties rose to fame as a classic American candy in the twentieth century particularly associated with winter holidays and festive occasions The homemade version gives you control over ingredients and is a favorite for family traditions and edible gifting.

Seasonal Adaptations

Try dipping the centers in colored candy melts for Easter or using gold sprinkles at New Year Add a hint of orange zest to the filling in winter for an extra layer of flavor Cut out shapes like hearts for Valentine’s Day or shamrocks for St Patrick’s Day.

Homemade peppermint patties are easy enough for a weeknight and special enough for gifting. Once you try a fresh batch you may never go back to store-bought again.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What type of chocolate works best for dipping?

Dark melting or dipping chocolate provides a rich coating and sets with a glossy finish. Milk chocolate is also suitable if you prefer a sweeter flavor.

→ How do I prevent sticking when rolling the dough?

Dust the rolling surface and dough generously with powdered sugar to keep the peppermint mixture from sticking.

→ How long should the patties be chilled before dipping?

Freeze the shaped discs for about 15 minutes to help them firm up and hold their shape during chocolate dipping.

→ Can I add different toppings for decoration?

Yes, you can personalize each patty with sprinkles, crushed peppermint candies, or color drizzle for a festive look.

→ Are these treats suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! Once the chocolate has set, arrange the patties in a box or tin with parchment for a homemade edible gift.