Homemade Peppermint Patties are a simple and tasty treat you’ll want to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up this fresh and minty delight in no time. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or satisfy a sweet tooth, these homemade candies are sure to please. Let’s dive into the recipe and get started on creating your own delicious peppermint patties!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Homemade Goodness: These peppermint patties are made from scratch, allowing you to control the ingredients and ensure they are fresh and delicious.
- Perfect Holiday Treat: The minty flavor and chocolate coating make these patties an ideal sweet for holiday gatherings and gift-giving.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the sweetness or mintiness to suit your taste, making these patties perfect for everyone.
- Fun to Make: This recipe is simple and enjoyable to prepare, making it a great activity to do with family and friends.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil (for chocolate coating)
When making homemade peppermint patties, you need simple and fresh ingredients. Start with powdered sugar. It gives sweetness and helps form the base. Next, add unsweetened cocoa powder. This adds a rich chocolate flavor. The melted coconut oil helps bind everything together and gives a nice texture.
Peppermint extract is key for that refreshing taste. It’s strong, so just one teaspoon will do. If the dough is too dry, use milk. Add it slowly until the dough feels just right. The dark chocolate chips are for coating. They create a delicious shell. Lastly, use a bit of coconut oil to help the chocolate melt smoothly.
Choose good quality ingredients. They make a big difference in flavor. You can also switch some ingredients to fit your tastes. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder. Mix well.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of melted coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the bowl. Stir until blended.
3. Gradually add 1-2 tablespoons of milk. Keep mixing until the dough is soft yet firm.
Shaping the Patties
1. Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper. Roll it out to about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles from the dough. Place each patty back on the parchment paper.
Freezing and Coating
1. Put the patties in the freezer for 30 minutes to harden.
2. While they chill, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove the patties from the freezer. Dip each one in the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it well.
4. Use a fork to lift the patties out, letting extra chocolate drip off. Place them back on the parchment paper.
5. Chill the coated patties in the fridge until the chocolate sets, which takes about 15-30 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Dough
To get the right dough for your peppermint patties, you want a soft but firm mix. Start by mixing the powdered sugar and cocoa powder well. Then, add melted coconut oil and peppermint extract. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time. If the dough feels too dry, add a bit more milk. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in some powdered sugar until it feels just right. You want it to hold its shape but not crumble apart.
Chocolate Coating Techniques
For a smooth chocolate coating, use good quality dark chocolate chips. Melt the chocolate with coconut oil in short bursts in the microwave. Stir between each burst until it’s fully smooth. When you dip the patties, make sure they are completely covered. Use a fork to lift them out, letting the extra chocolate drip off. This helps avoid clumps and gives a nice, even layer of chocolate.
Presentation Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, think about how to make your patties pop. Arrange them on a pretty platter. You can sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top for a festive look. Drizzling white chocolate can add an elegant touch as well. Serve them at parties or keep them handy for a sweet snack. The visual appeal will make your homemade treats even more inviting!
Pro Tips
- Use High-Quality Chocolate: Opt for good quality dark chocolate for coating to enhance the flavor of your peppermint patties. A richer chocolate will provide a delightful contrast to the sweet filling.
- Chill the Dough: Before cutting out the patties, chilling the dough for about 10 minutes can make it easier to handle and shape, resulting in a smoother finish.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding a few drops of food coloring to the filling for a festive look or swap peppermint extract for other flavors like orange or almond for a unique twist.
- Store Properly: Keep your peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and texture. They can last up to two weeks!
Variations
Flavored Peppermint Patties
You can make your peppermint patties even better by adding flavors. Try vanilla or almond extract for a new twist. Just a half teaspoon can add a lot of depth. You can also use flavored chocolate for coating. Think about orange or raspberry chocolate to change the taste. Each bite will surprise your taste buds!
Dietary Adaptations
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free powdered sugar. You can also try almond flour instead of cocoa powder for a unique taste. For those avoiding dairy, swap dark chocolate for dairy-free chocolate. Many brands offer great dairy-free options that taste amazing. These changes let everyone enjoy the treat!
Fun Add-Ins
Want to make your patties special? Add crushed peppermint candies for extra crunch. Just mix them into the dough before shaping. You can also sprinkle coconut flakes on top after dipping them in chocolate. This adds a fun texture and flavor. Each variation makes your homemade peppermint patties unique and delightful!
Storage Info
Storing Homemade Peppermint Patties
To keep your homemade peppermint patties fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method keeps them soft and tasty. You can layer them with parchment paper to stop sticking. Place the container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about two weeks in there.
Freezing Tips
To freeze peppermint patties, first, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about two hours until hard. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for three months.
When you want to enjoy your frozen patties, take them out and let them thaw in the fridge. This helps them keep their shape. Once they are soft, serve them as usual. They will taste just as good!
FAQs
Can I use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use white chocolate. White chocolate gives a sweet, creamy taste. It pairs well with peppermint. Just remember, white chocolate does not have cocoa powder. This will change the flavor a bit.
How can I make these peppermint patties without coconut oil?
You can replace coconut oil with unsalted butter. Melt it the same way. It will give a rich taste. Or try using vegetable oil if you want a lighter option. The texture will still work well without coconut oil.
What’s the best way to melt chocolate for coating?
Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting. Combine chocolate chips and coconut oil in the bowl. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir in between to avoid burning. When smooth, it’s ready for dipping.
Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can make these treats a few days ahead. Store them in the fridge in an airtight container. They will stay fresh. This makes them great for parties or holiday gatherings.
You can easily make your own peppermint patties at home. Start by mixing the key ingredients like powdered sugar and cocoa, then shape and freeze them. After coating in dark chocolate, your treats are ready to impress. Remember, this recipe offers room for fun changes, like adding new flavors or using different chocolates. Keep your patties fresh in the fridge or freezer. Enjoy sharing these tasty bites with friends and famil
