Delish Peppermint Patties Recipe
There’s something undeniably delightful about homemade treats, and this Delish Peppermint Patties Recipe is a testament to that joy. These minty chocolate confections are not just a holiday indulgence; they’re a sweet reminder of simpler times, perfect for sharing with loved ones. With a rich chocolate coating and a cool, creamy mint center, they evoke memories of childhood and family gatherings. My husband and kids simply can’t resist them, and they have quickly become a staple in our home.
I vividly remember the first time I made these peppermint patties. I was preparing for a holiday gathering, and the kids were buzzing with excitement, helping me mix, roll, and coat the patties in chocolate. My husband watched as they turned into little rounds of joy, and we all eagerly awaited their cooling. When we finally indulged, the smiles on our faces were priceless—sweet, minty bliss wrapped in rich chocolate was an instant hit! These homemade treats have since become our go-to family project during the chilly months, and they’re often a hit with friends and neighbors as well.
Why You’ll Love This Delish Peppermint Patties Recipe
These peppermint patties are sure to win your heart because the ingredients are straightforward, and the process is fun to do with kids or friends. You get the thrill of creating a classic candy with a refreshing twist, and the satisfaction of knowing it’s made from scratch. Plus, they are versatile enough to be customized—add a little bit of food coloring to the mint filling for a fun pop or experiment with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Behind the Recipe
Making peppermint patties at home reveals just how simple and satisfying candy-making can be. The secret lies in getting the mint filling just right—too little, and it won’t shine; too much, and it can overpower. I learned firsthand that patience is key when allowing the chocolate coating to set. One little tip I’ve picked up is to use a fork or a dipping tool to help coat them evenly, minimizing chocolate drips and ensuring each bite is perfect.
Shopping Tips
When choosing ingredients, look for good quality chocolate—dark or semisweet chocolate works great. High-quality chocolate bars usually yield the best results, while chocolate chips can sometimes be made with fillers. For the mint filling, I always opt for peppermint extract instead of imitation; the flavor is cleaner and more vibrant. Additionally, make sure to check the expiration dates on extracts and candies for the best flavor.
Prep Ahead Ideas
You can prepare the mint filling a day in advance and refrigerate it, making the assembly process much quicker. Once shaped, the patties can also be frozen prior to coating, making it easy to coat them in chocolate right before serving. I prefer using an airtight container to store the uncoated patties in the freezer to maintain freshness.
Time-Saving Tricks
Using a microwave to melt your chocolate can save quite a bit of time. Just be sure to do it in increments and stir in between to avoid burning. Also, preparing a double batch is a great way to ensure you have some tasty treats on hand for unexpected guests or to tuck away for your own sweet cravings later in the week.
Common Mistakes
One common pitfall is overhandling the chocolate while coating, leading to unsightly drips and a messy finish. If you find your chocolate gets too thick, add a tiny bit of shortening or coconut oil to thin it out. Another mistake is rushing the refrigeration time; if they aren’t fully set, the filling may ooze out, ruining the beautiful presentation. Trust me, waiting for them to cool is worth the payoff!
What to Serve It With
These peppermint patties pair beautifully with a cup of your favorite hot cocoa or even a robust coffee. The hot beverage enhances the cooling mint and chocolate experience, making them a delightful duo.
Tips & Mistakes
Make sure to keep the patties refrigerated until serving. They can become a bit too soft at room temperature.
Storage Tips
Store in airtight containers in the fridge. It reheats beautifully, but if you sneak a bite cold straight from the container, it still works.
Variations and Substitutions
For variations, try substituting the peppermint extract with other flavors like orange or raspberry for a different twist. The cream filling is quite adaptable, so play around with different extracts to discover your favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Delish Peppermint Patties Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cup powdered sugar
- 0.5 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 0.25 cup butter, softened Make sure it's at room temperature.
- 1 tsp peppermint extract Adjust to taste if you like it mintier.
- 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped For dipping, you can use chocolate chips as well.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, start by blending the softened butter and powdered sugar until velvety smooth. Add the cocoa powder and peppermint extract, then mix until everything is fully incorporated. You should have a thick, pliable mixture.
- Shape the mixture into small, round patties, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for about 15 minutes until firm.
- While the patties are chilling, melt the chopped dark chocolate in a heat-proof bowl set over simmering water, stirring regularly until smooth.
- Once the patties are firm, dip each one into the melted chocolate, allowing the excess to drip off. Return the coated patties to the parchment lined sheet, and let them set at room temperature or in the fridge until the chocolate is hardened.
- Enjoy your homemade peppermint patties as a sweet treat, or package them up for a lovely gift!