Decadent Homemade Peppermint Patties: Your Ultimate Guide to Easy Chocolate Mint Candy
Indulge in the refreshing and utterly delightful experience of homemade peppermint patties. This recipe delivers pure perfection: a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint filling enveloped in rich, decadent chocolate. Every bite is a burst of cool mint and sweet chocolate, making them an irresistible treat. They are an absolute dream for holiday gift-giving, festive cookie platters, or simply as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Homemade peppermint patties are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a celebration of flavor and the joy of crafting something special with your own hands. While their cool, refreshing essence is undeniably perfect for the Christmas season, these delightful chocolate mint candies can truly be enjoyed year-round. Forget the store-bought versions; once you experience the superior taste and texture of these homemade beauties, there’s no going back.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the creamy peppermint center. Unlike the often-firm texture of a York Peppermint Patty, this homemade version boasts a softer, richer consistency that truly melts in your mouth. The intense, natural peppermint flavor shines through, perfectly balanced by the sweet, smooth chocolate coating. To make them even more enchanting and visually appealing, especially during festive times, you can easily add a sprinkle of colorful decorations. Imagine vibrant red and green sprinkles for Christmas, or pastel hues for spring celebrations!
You might be surprised at how incredibly easy these chocolate peppermint patties are to make. In just a couple of hours, you can whip up a batch, with the active “hands-on” time for the recipe being a mere 30 minutes. The rest is chilling time, allowing the flavors to meld and the patties to firm up perfectly. Once ready, they transform into exquisite, heartfelt gifts. Package them beautifully in charming Christmas tins or decorative boxes for friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. A handmade gift, especially one as sweet and delicious as these, is always deeply appreciated and leaves a lasting impression!
For all you devoted peppermint lovers out there, your journey into minty bliss doesn’t have to end here! If you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange or simply crave more refreshing treats, be sure to explore these other fantastic recipes: Peppermint Meltaways, Peppermint Patty Cookies, and Peppermint Pinwheel Cookies. Each offers a unique spin on the beloved peppermint flavor and pairs wonderfully with these homemade peppermint patties, creating an impressive and diverse dessert spread. Now, let’s dive into making these incredible peppermint patties!
Essential Ingredients for the Best Peppermint Patties Ever
This section provides detailed ingredient notes, including their purpose and potential substitution options to help you achieve the perfect peppermint patties. All precise measurements, ingredients, and comprehensive instructions can be found in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This vital ingredient forms the creamy, rich, and slightly chewy base of our peppermint center. It provides the essential moisture and sweetness, binding the powdered sugar into a smooth, pliable dough. Do not confuse it with evaporated milk, as they are not interchangeable in this recipe.
- Peppermint Extract: The heart and soul of our peppermint patties! This extract infuses the creamy center with that classic, cool, and refreshing peppermint flavor. Ensure you use peppermint *extract* and not peppermint *oil*, as oils are significantly more concentrated (approximately 4 times stronger) and can sometimes be inedible. Always check the label for culinary use.
- Confectioners Sugar (Powdered Sugar): Also known as powdered sugar or icing sugar, confectioners sugar is crucial for achieving the smooth, non-gritty texture of the peppermint dough. Its fine consistency dissolves easily, contributing to the melt-in-your-mouth quality of the finished patty. You’ll use a generous amount to reach the desired stiff but not sticky consistency.
- Chocolate Almond Bark: This provides a smooth, glossy, and easily meltable coating for your peppermint patties. Almond bark, often made with vegetable fats, melts beautifully and sets quickly, creating a crisp chocolate shell. While milk chocolate almond bark is specified, you have the flexibility to choose! Dark chocolate chips offer a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor, or you could opt for white almond bark for a striking visual contrast, especially with colorful sprinkles. Any high-quality melting chocolate (like Ghirardelli melting wafers) will work well.
- Sprinkles: Completely optional, but highly recommended for an extra touch of festivity and fun! Colorful sprinkles instantly elevate the visual appeal, making these peppermint patties perfect for holidays, parties, or any occasion where you want to add a pop of color. Red, green, and white sprinkles are classic for Christmas, but feel free to get creative with your favorite colors or even edible glitter.
Essential Equipment for Easy Peppermint Patties
Before you begin creating these delightful homemade peppermint patties, gather these basic kitchen tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking process.
- Baking Sheet: You’ll need at least one, and possibly two, baking sheets to hold your peppermint centers during the freezing process and later the dipped patties.
- Parchment Paper or Wax Paper: Absolutely essential for lining your baking sheets. This prevents the peppermint patties from sticking, making them easy to remove and ensuring a clean process.
- Mixing Bowls: A large mixing bowl will be needed for preparing the peppermint dough, and a smaller microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate coating.
- Electric Mixer (Handheld or Stand): While you *could* mix by hand, an electric mixer significantly simplifies the process of combining the ingredients for the peppermint dough, ensuring it becomes smooth and stiff without excessive effort. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a handheld electric mixer will both work beautifully.
- Fork or Dipping Tools: A simple fork is often the best tool for dipping the peppermint centers into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off easily. Specialized candy dipping tools are also an option if you have them.
- Airtight Containers: Crucial for storing your finished peppermint patties, whether in the refrigerator or freezer, to maintain their freshness and texture.
How to Make Copycat York Peppermint Patties from Scratch
Follow these step-by-step instructions with accompanying photos to master this homemade peppermint patty recipe. For the complete printable recipe, including exact measurements and nutritional information, please refer to the recipe card below.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Chilling Spot. First, line a baking sheet with either wax paper or parchment paper. This non-stick surface is crucial for preventing your peppermint patties from sticking during the chilling and setting stages. Set the lined baking sheet aside. Next, clear out a sufficient space in your freezer where the baking sheet can lay flat and undisturbed for at least an hour. This freezing step is key to ensuring the peppermint centers firm up perfectly for dipping.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients for the Peppermint Center. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Add the peppermint extract to the milk. Using a whisk or a spoon, gently mix these two ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should smell wonderfully minty!
Step 3: Create the Peppermint Dough. With your electric hand mixer (or a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment), begin to slowly incorporate the confectioners sugar into the wet mixture. Start on a low speed to avoid a cloud of powdered sugar, gradually increasing as the mixture comes together. Continue mixing until all the powdered sugar is fully integrated, and you achieve a stiff, yet pliable dough. It should be firm enough to hold its shape but not sticky to the touch. If it’s too sticky, add a little more confectioners sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the correct consistency.
Step 4: Shape the Peppermint Centers. Once the peppermint dough is perfectly formed, it’s time to shape your patties. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into smooth balls. The size of the ball will determine the size of your finished peppermint patty, so aim for consistency if you want uniform candies. Place these balls onto your prepared baking sheet lined with wax paper. Then, gently flatten each ball into a thick disc shape. You can use your fingers or the bottom of a glass for a smoother finish. Aim for about ¼ to ½ inch thickness.
Step 5: Freeze for Firmness. Carefully transfer the baking sheet with your shaped peppermint discs into the freezer. Let them chill for a minimum of 1 hour. This crucial step ensures the centers are firm enough to hold their shape and won’t fall apart when dipped into the warm melted chocolate.
Step 6: Melt the Chocolate Coating. As the peppermint centers are chilling, prepare your chocolate. Break the chocolate almond bark into smaller pieces and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt the almond bark in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate is completely melted and beautifully smooth, with no lumps remaining. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize or become grainy.
Step 7: Dip the Peppermint Patties. Retrieve your firm peppermint discs from the freezer. Working quickly, use a fork to dip each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate. Gently turn and toss the patty with the fork to ensure both sides are fully coated. Lift the patty from the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. You can gently tap the fork against the rim of the bowl or scrape the bottom of the patty against the side to remove any extra chocolate, ensuring a neat and even coating.
Step 8: Decorate with Sprinkles. Immediately after dipping, place the chocolate-coated peppermint patty back onto your wax paper-lined baking sheet. While the chocolate is still wet, liberally sprinkle your chosen sprinkles over the top. The warm chocolate will act as an adhesive, ensuring the sprinkles stick firmly as the coating sets. Repeat for all patties.
Step 9: Allow to Set and Chill. Once all your peppermint patties are dipped and sprinkled, allow the chocolate to set completely. You can place the baking sheet back into the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes to speed up this process, or simply leave them at cool room temperature until the chocolate is firm to the touch. Keep them stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve, ensuring they maintain their refreshing coolness and firm texture.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Proper storage is key to maintaining the delightful freshness and texture of your homemade peppermint patties. Follow these guidelines to ensure they remain delicious for as long as possible:
Refrigerator Storage: Place your finished peppermint patties in an airtight container. They will stay fresh and firm in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Storing them in the fridge helps maintain their cool, refreshing sensation and prevents the chocolate from becoming too soft.
Freezer Storage: For longer preservation, these peppermint patties freeze exceptionally well for up to 2 months. To ensure the best results and prevent freezer burn or sticking, first wrap each individual patty tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the individually wrapped patties into a freezer-safe, zip-top bag or an airtight container. This double layer of protection helps preserve their flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen treat, simply take a patty out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before eating. They are surprisingly delightful when slightly frozen!
Homemade Peppermint Patty Recipe Tips and Tricks
Achieve peppermint patty perfection with these expert tips and clever tricks:
- Enjoy Them Slightly Frozen: For an extra refreshing and delightful texture, store your homemade peppermint patties in the freezer. Pull one out about 10-15 minutes before you plan to indulge. The slightly frozen center offers a unique, firm, yet still creamy chew that many find incredibly satisfying.
- Peppermint Extract vs. Peppermint Oil: Know the Difference: This is a critical distinction! Always ensure you are using peppermint *extract* for this recipe. Peppermint oil is typically much stronger, often around four times as potent as extract, and many types of peppermint oil are not intended for consumption (as confirmed by sources like Live Strong). Using oil instead of extract could result in an overwhelmingly strong, almost medicinal, mint flavor and potentially digestive discomfort.
- For Perfectly Circular Patties: If you desire uniform, perfectly circular peppermint patties, roll out the peppermint dough evenly between two sheets of parchment paper to your desired thickness (about 1/4 to 1/2 inch). Then, use a round cookie cutter (or even a small, clean drinking glass rim) to cut out neat discs. This method ensures professional-looking results.
- Dealing with Sticky Dough: If your peppermint dough feels too sticky to handle or roll, it likely needs more confectioners sugar. Add an additional tablespoon or two at a time, kneading it in until the dough is firm, smooth, and no longer adheres to your hands.
- Temperature Control for Dipping: When melting your chocolate, avoid overheating! Overheated chocolate can become thick, clumpy, or “seize,” making it difficult to dip your patties smoothly. Melt in short intervals (30 seconds) and stir well between each. If the chocolate seems too thick, you can thin it slightly with a teaspoon of coconut oil or vegetable shortening, but do so sparingly.
- Clean Dipping Surface: After dipping each patty, gently scrape the bottom edge against the side of the chocolate bowl or the fork to remove any drips. This helps create a cleaner, more professional-looking edge on your finished candies.
Creative Additions and Delicious Variations
Customize your homemade peppermint patties to suit any taste or occasion with these exciting ideas:
- Dip in White Chocolate for a Striking Contrast: Instead of traditional chocolate almond bark, try dipping your peppermint discs in white almond bark or melted white chocolate. The bright white coating will make any colorful sprinkles truly pop, creating a visually stunning and equally delicious treat, especially festive for winter holidays.
- Embrace the Richness of Dark Chocolate: If you prefer a less sweet and more sophisticated flavor profile, opt for a rich dark chocolate coating. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate beautifully complements the sweet, cool peppermint center, creating a gourmet experience similar to classic, high-end peppermint creams.
- Amp Up the Peppermint Flavor and Texture: For an undeniable burst of peppermint in every bite, go beyond sprinkles! Top your freshly dipped patties with finely crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. This adds not only an extra layer of cool, refreshing mint flavor but also a delightful crunch and festive visual appeal.
- Vary the Size to Suit Your Preference: These patties are incredibly versatile when it comes to size. Make them large, mimicking the classic regular-sized peppermint patties for a substantial treat. Alternatively, roll them into smaller, miniature versions, perfect for popping into your mouth, serving on a dessert platter, or adding to treat bags. Adjust your shaping and chilling times accordingly.
- Introduce a Hint of Vanilla Extract: For added depth and complexity of flavor in your peppermint centers, consider adding half a teaspoon or a full teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract mixture. Vanilla harmonizes beautifully with peppermint, creating a subtly richer and more well-rounded taste.
- Add a Pop of Food Coloring: For an even more vibrant and playful peppermint center, add a drop or two of green or pink gel food coloring to your peppermint dough. This is especially fun for themed parties or holiday treats.
Recipe FAQ
The delightful, creamy center of these homemade peppermint patties is primarily crafted from a simple yet magical blend of sweetened condensed milk, high-quality peppermint extract for that signature cool flavor, and fine confectioners sugar (also known as powdered sugar) to give it structure and a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Absolutely, and many would argue it’s the superior choice! The iconic York Peppermint Patties are famously coated in a dark chocolate shell, so there’s every reason to use dark chocolate for your homemade version. Dark chocolate offers a richer, less sweet, and slightly more bitter counterpoint to the sweet peppermint filling, creating a wonderfully balanced and sophisticated flavor profile. You can use dark chocolate almond bark or high-quality dark chocolate melting wafers.
Yes, this particular recipe for copycat peppermint patties does contain dairy. Dairy is present in two key ingredients: the sweetened condensed milk, which forms the creamy center, and most standard chocolate coatings (like chocolate almond bark or milk chocolate chips) also contain dairy. If you need a dairy-free option, you would need to source dairy-free sweetened condensed coconut milk and a dairy-free chocolate coating.
The most common reason for peppermint patties falling apart during dipping is that they haven’t been adequately chilled or frozen. The centers need to be very firm and cold to maintain their shape when they hit the warm chocolate. Ensure they freeze for at least 1 hour, or even longer if your freezer isn’t very cold. Also, ensure your melted chocolate isn’t too hot, as excessive heat can cause the cold centers to break down quickly.
Chocolate seizing (becoming thick and grainy) can be caused by overheating or by introducing even a tiny amount of water. To prevent this, melt your chocolate almond bark in a clean, dry bowl. Use short bursts in the microwave (30-second intervals) and stir thoroughly after each one, even if it doesn’t look fully melted. The residual heat will continue to melt the chocolate as you stir. Avoid high power settings. If you’re using a double boiler, ensure no steam or water comes into contact with the chocolate.
More Refreshing Peppermint Dessert Recipes
If you’ve fallen in love with the cool, invigorating flavor of these homemade peppermint patties and are a true fan of chocolate mint combinations, then you’ll absolutely adore exploring my other peppermint-inspired desserts. These recipes are perfect for expanding your holiday baking repertoire or simply indulging your minty cravings:
- Peppermint Bark Muddy Buddies: A fun, crunchy, and festive twist on a classic snack mix, packed with peppermint bark flavor.
- Peppermint Mocha Cake: Indulge in layers of rich chocolate cake infused with coffee and peppermint, topped with a luscious frosting.
- Boozy Dark Chocolate Peppermint Truffles: A sophisticated, adults-only treat featuring rich dark chocolate, a hint of peppermint, and a touch of your favorite liqueur.
- Chocolate Peppermint Fudge: Smooth, creamy, and intensely flavored chocolate fudge with a refreshing peppermint swirl.
- Christmas Peppermint Bark: A quintessential holiday candy, simple to make yet incredibly satisfying with its layers of white and dark chocolate and crushed candy canes.
Homemade Peppermint Patties
Author: Jaclyn
Ingredients
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- 4 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 pound chocolate almond bark
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
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Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper and set aside. Clear a place in your freezer to fit the baking sheet.
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In a large bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract.
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Using an electric mixer, slowly mix in the confectioners sugar. You want a stiff dough that is not sticky.
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Once your dough is formed roll it into balls and place them onto the lined tray. Gently flatten the balls down into a thick disc shape.
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Place the tray into the freezer for 1 hour.
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When you are ready to dip, melt your almond bark in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
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Working quickly, dip the peppermint patties into the chocolate. Gently shake off any excess or scrape it off the bottom on the side of the bowl.
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Place dipped candy back onto the lined baking sheet and immediately top with sprinkles.
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Allow the chocolate to set fully before serving or storing.
Notes
- Make sure you freeze the peppermint dough before dipping. The mixture is delicate and will fall apart in the chocolate if not frozen first.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Shape into large or mini peppermint patties.
Nutrition
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We hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to create your own batch of irresistible homemade peppermint patties. They are truly a labor of love that yields incredibly rewarding results, far surpassing any store-bought alternative. Whether you’re making them for festive gatherings, thoughtful gifts, or simply to satisfy a craving for that perfect chocolate mint combination, these patties are guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the process, savor the flavor, and share the joy of these decadent treats!