Easy Peppermint Patties Chocolate

Craving something cool and chocolatey that comes together fast and makes your kitchen smell incredible These easy peppermint patties are my no fuss treat for holidays and parties and they never fail to wow family and friends even though they are mostly pantry staples

I threw these together one year when I needed a last minute dessert for a holiday get together Now whenever someone sees them on the table they disappear in minutes and everyone asks for the recipe

Ingredients

• Powdered sugar: Provides the classic smooth mint filling Look for a brand with fine texture for best results
• Unsweetened cocoa powder: Gives a subtle depth and balances the sweetness Opt for high quality Dutch process if possible for a richer taste
• Unsalted butter: Binds the filling and adds richness Use real butter at room temperature to blend smoothly
• Milk: Makes the filling creamy and helps everything come together Whole milk gives the best flavor but you can use dairy free if needed
• Peppermint extract: Delivers that clean bright minty flavor Go for pure peppermint for the most refreshing taste
• Semi sweet chocolate chips: Create a smooth outer shell Choose a good melting chocolate for glossy even coating
• Coconut oil: Optional but gives a shinier shell and smoother melting If you skip it just be patient melting chocolate gently

Instructions

Make the Filling:

Mix together powdered sugar cocoa powder softened butter milk and peppermint extract in a medium bowl Stir gently then use a spatula or hands to knead until a smooth dough forms If the mixture feels crumbly drizzle a few extra drops of milk and work it in for pliability

Shape the Patties:

Pinch off small pieces of filling and gently roll each into a ball Lightly flatten with your palm until each is about one quarter inch thick Line up on a parchment covered baking sheet with space between patties Chill for thirty minutes so they firm up and become easy to dip

Prepare the Chocolate Coating:

Pour the chocolate chips and coconut oil if using into a microwave safe bowl Heat in thirty second bursts stirring after each until chocolate is fully melted and silky smooth Be careful not to overheat or the chocolate can seize a gentle hand is key

Coat the Patties:

Lift each chilled patty gently with a fork Dip completely into melted chocolate to coat Let extra chocolate drip back into the bowl and slide the patty onto clean parchment Repeat with all pieces and avoid crowding so they stay tidy

Let Set:

Leave the tray of coated patties at room temperature until the chocolate hardens This takes about fifteen minutes but can be sped up by moving the tray to your fridge for the final set

Serve and Store:

Once the chocolate is set peppermint patties are ready to eat Transfer to an airtight container where they keep well for up to a week at room temperature or can be chilled to stay fresher longer

I love how the bittersweet chocolate balances the minty filling My little one once handed a plate of these to our neighbor on a snowy day and it started a tradition of new friends trading treats each winter

Storage Tips

Easy peppermint patties keep best in an airtight container and away from humidity You can keep them at room temperature for casual snacking but I prefer to chill them in layers with parchment for longer storage The fridge also gives the chocolate an extra satisfying snap

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the butter and milk for plant based versions to make this dairy free Dark chocolate chips stand in beautifully for the coating if you want a richer less sweet bite If you prefer an extra minty kick add an extra half teaspoon of peppermint extract but do not overdo it or it will overpower other flavors

Serving Suggestions

These look stunning on a festive platter with fresh mint leaves For a grown up twist sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt just as the chocolate is setting To dress them up for gifting stack in a clear box with tissue paper and a pretty ribbon

Cultural and Historical Context

Peppermint patties are inspired by old fashioned American candy shops where chocolate and mint were paired for cooling confections Their simple homemade version became popular for holiday trays in the United States during the twentieth century and they are still a symbol of wintery treats you can craft at home

Seasonal Adaptations

Chill the filling extra firm when it is hot outside to make dipping easier Stir in colored sprinkles for holiday or birthday themes Top with a dusting of crushed peppermint candy in winter for more sparkle

Success Stories

Friends who try these for the first time always say they are better than any store bought peppermint candy My cousin once made a double batch with a group of kids for a bake sale and they sold out before lunchtime

Freezer Meal Conversion

Yes you can freeze peppermint patties Place them in a single layer on a lined tray to freeze then transfer to a zip bag with parchment between layers Thaw on the counter before serving so the chocolate softens perfectly

Try these peppermint patties for your next celebration and enjoy a treat that is as fun to make as it is to share They never last long in our house

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I get smooth chocolate coating?

Add a bit of coconut oil when melting the chocolate and dip each patty fully, letting excess drip off.

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate works well and gives a richer flavor that pairs beautifully with mint.

→ How should I store peppermint patties?

Keep patties in an airtight container at room temperature or chill them in the fridge for longer freshness.

→ Can the filling be made ahead?

Yes, shape and chill the centers in advance, then dip in chocolate just before serving.

→ What if my filling is too dry?

Add milk a teaspoon at a time until the dough is soft and easy to shape without crumbling.