There’s a certain nostalgia that comes with the first bite of a peppermint patty—the cool rush of mint intertwined with rich chocolate, wrapping you in warmth and comfort. I whipped up these Easy 5-Ingredient Homemade Peppermint Patties during a recent holiday gathering, and they left everyone reaching for seconds!
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity. No need for baking or elaborate techniques—just a handful of ingredients that magically come together to create a treat that feels both decadent and refreshing. Perfect for sharing with friends or tucking into gift boxes, these homemade patties are a delightful alternative to store-bought sweets.
Whether you’re seeking a fun activity to enjoy with the kids or looking for a quick treat to brighten up your evening, this no-bake recipe is your answer. Let’s dive into the delightful world of homemade peppermint patties and bring a little touch of nostalgia to your kitchen!
Why will you love this Peppermint Patties Recipe?
Simplicity: With just five ingredients, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for even the busiest home cooks.
No Baking Required: Say goodbye to your oven! These no-bake delights come together with minimal fuss.
Fresh and Flavorful: Experience the cool mint and rich chocolate that offers a refreshing twist, perfect for any occasion.
Endless Variations: Play around with milk chocolate, extra peppermint, or fun sprinkles to create your ideal treat.
Great for Gifting: These adorable patties are easy to package, making them a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a holiday gathering or an after-dinner treat, these peppermint patties will have everyone asking for more!
Peppermint Patties Recipe Ingredients
For the Filling
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds a rich, creamy sweetness to the filling; for less sweetness, consider using unsweetened condensed milk.
- Peppermint Extract – The star ingredient providing that classic mint flavor; for a bolder taste, increase the amount to 1.5 teaspoons.
- Vanilla Extract – Rounds out the flavors in the filling, adding depth and warmth.
- Powdered Sugar – Helps to form a doughy texture for the filling; you can use a confectioners’ sugar blend for a reduced-sugar version.
For the Coating
- Dark Melting/Dipping Chocolate (2 cups) – Provides a rich chocolate layer that encases the patties; substitute with milk or white chocolate for a sweeter alternative.
- Optional Sprinkles – For decoration, making them extra festive, especially during the holiday season.
This Peppermint Patties Recipe is a delightful treat that will keep loved ones coming back for more!
How to Make Peppermint Patties
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Mix the Filling: In a stand mixer, combine sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar until a dough forms and is smooth to the touch.
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Shape the Dough: Knead the dough with your hands, then roll it out to ½-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out 1 to 1½-inch circles. If the dough feels soft, chill it in the freezer briefly.
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Freeze: Arrange the cut patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze them for 15 minutes to firm up the filling before coating.
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Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it’s smooth. Let it cool slightly to avoid melting the patties during dipping.
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Dip Patties: Using a fork, dip each patty into the melted chocolate ensuring it is fully coated. Place them back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with optional decorations if desired.
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Set: Refrigerate the dipped patties for 20 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden into a delightful shell.
Optional: Sprinkle with festive colored sprinkles for a joyful touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Cool Chocolate First: Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly; this prevents it from melting the patties during dipping, ensuring a beautiful finish.
- Dust for Ease: If the dough is too sticky when shaping, dust it with additional powdered sugar to make rolling out easier without compromising the recipe.
- Uniform Thickness: To achieve even patties, use a rolling pin with thickness guides; this ensures a consistent bake time and texture when setting.
- Chill Well: Don’t skip the freezing step! It firms up the filling, making the patties easier to dip and giving them a lovely shape.
- Variations Galore: Feel free to swap dark chocolate with milk chocolate or add extra peppermint extract for an enhanced minty flavor in your peppermint patties.
Storage Tips for Peppermint Patties
- Room Temperature: Keep peppermint patties at room temperature for up to 1 day in an airtight container to maintain their delightful texture.
- Fridge: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container to prolong freshness and flavor.
- Freezer: You can freeze peppermint patties for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container; thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: For a delightful treat, let frozen patties sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying, allowing the chocolate to soften slightly without losing its shape.
What to Serve with Easy 5-Ingredient Homemade Peppermint Patties?
The perfect peppermint treat deserves delightful companions that enhance the experience and create a complete indulgence.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: With its creamy texture and deep chocolate flavor, it pairs wonderfully with the cool mint of the patties. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream for extra luxury.
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Coffee-Based Drinks: A warm mocha or a frothy cappuccino highlights the chocolate while balancing the sweetness. The caffeine kick also makes it a great after-dinner pairing.
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Chocolate Dipped Biscotti: These crunchy delights introduce an extra texture and make for an elegant treat alongside the soft peppermint patties. Dipping each bite in coffee is pure bliss!
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Fruit Salad: A fresh, tangy fruit salad with berries or citrus adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate and mint. The natural sweetness will enhance the flavors beautifully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful base to enjoy with the peppermint patties, creating a luscious mint-chocolate sundae sensation.
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Homemade Eggnog: For a festive touch, serve these treats with rich, creamy eggnog, amplifying the holiday spirit while blending perfectly with the dessert.
Indulging in these pairings turns a simple peppermint patty into a delightful multi-sensory experience that’s perfect for any occasion!
Make Ahead Options
These Easy 5-Ingredient Homemade Peppermint Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the mint filling and shape the patties up to 24 hours in advance by refrigerating them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. After shaping, simply freeze the cut patties for about 15 minutes, then transfer them to your container. When you’re ready to serve, melt your chocolate, dip each patty, and refrigerate them for 20 minutes to set—all while ensuring they taste just as delicious as if made fresh that day. Enjoy the benefits of having these delightful treats ready to go whenever you need them!
Peppermint Patties Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to suit your taste buds!
- Milk Chocolate: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate to achieve a sweeter, creamier treat that’s irresistibly indulgent.
- Extra Peppermint: Boost the freshness by adding another ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract; this enhances the cool minty flavor for true mint lovers.
- Sugar-Free Option: Use a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar for a guilt-free delight without compromising on taste.
- White Chocolate Twist: Coat patties in white chocolate for a sweeter, decadent fusion of flavors that’s visually stunning, too!
- Nutty Crunch: Add finely chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) to the filling for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the smooth chocolate coating.
- Colorful Sprinkles: Top each chocolate-coated patty with vibrant sprinkles or edible glitter to make them even more festive and fun!
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling; this unexpected twist brings an exciting layer to the classic flavor.
- Minty Mix: Blend in some crushed peppermint candies or candy canes into the filling for added texture and a burst of holiday spirit!
These variations allow you to create your perfect peppermint patty, inviting fun twists that everyone will adore!
Peppermint Patties Recipe FAQs
What type of peppermint extract should I use?
Absolutely! Use pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. If you want a bolder minty taste, feel free to increase the extract to 1.5 teaspoons.
How do I store leftover peppermint patties?
Storing is simple! Keep your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have some left after that, they’ve been known to last for a few days at room temperature, but refrigeration helps maintain their texture and freshness.
Can I freeze peppermint patties? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months! To do so, place the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container with a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving!
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find yourself with sticky dough, don’t worry! Simply dust your work surface and rolling pin with additional powdered sugar while shaping the patties. This will help prevent sticking and make it easier to roll out the dough without affecting the recipe.
Can pets eat peppermint patties?
It’s best to keep these peppermint patties away from pets, especially dogs. Chocolate can be toxic to them, so be sure to store these treats out of reach of your furry friends! Always check for any allergens when sharing homemade goodies.
Can I use different kinds of chocolate for coating?
Very! Feel free to substitute dark chocolate with milk or even white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Each variation brings a different flavor profile, so experiment to find your favorite!
Delicious 5-Ingredient Peppermint Patties Recipe You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, combine sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar until a dough forms and is smooth to the touch.
- Knead the dough with your hands, then roll it out to ½-inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut out 1 to 1½-inch circles. If the dough feels soft, chill it in the freezer briefly.
- Arrange the cut patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze them for 15 minutes to firm up the filling before coating.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second increments, stirring in between until it's smooth. Let it cool slightly to avoid melting the patties during dipping.
- Using a fork, dip each patty into the melted chocolate ensuring it is fully coated. Place them back on the baking sheet and sprinkle with optional decorations if desired.
- Refrigerate the dipped patties for 20 minutes, allowing the chocolate to harden into a delightful shell.