Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe for a Classic Treat
Peppermint patties are beloved chocolate confections that encapsulate the perfect blend of creamy mint filling and rich chocolate coating. These delightful treats have been a staple in candy aisles for decades, evoking feelings of nostalgia for many who remember enjoying them during holidays, special occasions, or as a sweet reward. Their refreshing minty flavor makes them a unique choice among chocolates, perfect for invigorating the palate while satisfying a sweet tooth.
The purpose of this article is to provide a detailed, easy-to-follow recipe for homemade peppermint patties. Crafting these candies at home not only allows for a customize-your-own experience but elevates the flavor and quality far beyond store-bought versions. Homemade peppermint patties can be made with fresh ingredients and tailored to your taste preferences, ensuring that each bite is a festive, luxurious treat.
In a world increasingly dominated by mass-produced sweets, there is something undeniably special about creating your own candies. The process can be a fulfilling and enjoyable kitchen adventure, and sharing them with loved ones adds an extra layer of warmth to any gathering. Join us in diving into this delightful recipe that captures the essence of the season in every minty morsel!
Ingredients
To create delicious homemade peppermint patties, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This ingredient serves as the base for the mint filling, providing both moisture and sweetness.
- Powdered Sugar: Essential for achieving the right texture, powdered sugar helps to create a smooth, creamy filling.
- Peppermint Extract: The key flavor component, peppermint extract gives the patties their classic minty taste. Opt for high-quality extract for the best flavor.
- Dark Chocolate or Semi-Sweet Chocolate: A rich chocolate coating complements the mint filling perfectly. Choose good-quality chocolate for a superior taste.
- Coconut Oil (optional): Adding a small amount of coconut oil to the chocolate can help achieve a smoother coating and assist with the melting process.
When selecting your ingredients, focus on quality to elevate the taste of your peppermint patties. Fresh ingredients will enhance the overall flavor and texture, making your homemade treats even more enjoyable.
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Mint Filling
To start making your homemade peppermint patties, gather a mixing bowl and combine the sweetened condensed milk and powdered sugar. Begin by adding the powdered sugar gradually to avoid a mess. Mix it using a spatula or an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment. As you integrate the sugar, the mixture will become dense and start to form a dough-like consistency.
Next, add the peppermint extract. This is a crucial step as it imparts the distinctive mint flavor that is central to peppermint patties. Ensure that you taste the mixture as you go to find your desired level of mintiness. The filling should be smooth, pliable, and easy to handle. If it seems too sticky, you can add a bit more powdered sugar. Aim for a consistency that is not too dry and easily maintains its shape when pressed.
Step 2: Shaping the Patties
Once your mint filling is ready, it’s time to shape the patties. To do this, take small portions of the filling and roll them into balls about one inch in diameter, then flatten them slightly into discs. For uniformity, you could use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to achieve even shapes.
For a traditional look, consider making them approximately the size of a quarter. This will ensure that they are not too large to handle and will be the perfect bite-sized treat. Place each shaped patty on a parchment-lined baking sheet. It’s essential to move quickly but carefully, ensuring you maintain consistent sizes for even coating later on.
Step 3: Chilling the Patties
Chilling is critical for your peppermint patties’ structure, as it helps them firm up before the chocolate coating is applied. Place the baking sheet with the shaped patties in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period will also make it easier to dip them into the melted chocolate without losing their shape.
Step 4: Melting the Chocolate
While the patties chill, prepare to melt your chocolate. The most effective method is to use a double boiler, where you place a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. This gentle heat will allow the chocolate to melt smoothly. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating the chocolate in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between to prevent burning.
If you want a professional finish, consider tempering your chocolate. This process involves melting the chocolate, cooling it slightly, and then reheating it gently. This will give your finished patties a nice shine and prevent them from being too soft at room temperature.
Step 5: Coating the Patties
Now that your chocolate is melted, it’s time to coat the patties. Using either a fork or a dipping tool, carefully lower each chilled patty into the melted chocolate. Make sure it is fully submerged and then lift it out, allowing the excess chocolate to drip off. Tapping the fork lightly on the edge of the bowl can help remove extra chocolate, ensuring a clean finish.
Place the coated patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. If you want to add a decorative touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top while the chocolate is still wet. The key is to work quickly so the chocolate does not harden before you finish coating all the patties.
Step 6: Final Cooling
Once all the patties are coated in chocolate, return them to the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely. After they have cooled and the chocolate has hardened, your homemade peppermint patties are ready to enjoy!
For storage, keep them in an airtight container in a cool place, preferably in the fridge, to maintain their freshness and firmness.
Advice & Tips for Best Results
To ensure your peppermint patties turn out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:
- Common Pitfalls: Avoid overmixing the filling, as this can lead to a tough texture. Additionally, ensure your chocolate is melted but not too hot, as this can cause the patties to soften when coated.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate for coating, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate. You can also add flavored oils or colored sprinkles for a unique twist.
- Pairings: These peppermint patties pair wonderfully with hot chocolate or peppermint tea, making them a delightful winter treat. They can also be used as a garnish for desserts like brownies or cakes.
- Storage Recommendations: Store your finished peppermint patties in an airtight container, and they will last for up to two weeks if kept in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Nutritional Information
Homemade peppermint patties are a delightful indulgence. Here’s a basic breakdown of calories and nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 100 calories per two-piece serving.
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives, consider substituting regular sweetened condensed milk with a low-sugar version or using sugar alternatives in the filling. You can also play with using dark chocolate to lower the overall sugar content.
Serving Suggestions
Presenting your peppermint patties can be as delightful as making them:
- Creative Presentation: Arrange them on a decorative plate or in a clear jar to showcase their beautiful chocolate coating.
- Gifting Ideas: These make for excellent homemade gifts! Package them in a festive box or bag and tie with a ribbon for a lovely touch during the holiday season.
- Pairing Ideas: Serve them alongside a warm cup of cocoa or hot tea. They also complement rich desserts like brownies or ice cream well.
FAQs
Can I make peppermint patties without sweetened condensed milk? Yes, you can substitute it with a mixture of powdered sugar and milk or even use coconut cream as a base for a dairy-free alternative.
What can I use instead of peppermint extract? You can use peppermint essential oil (ensure it’s food-grade) or other mint-based extracts, such as spearmint. Just use a smaller amount, as they can vary in strength.
How long do peppermint patties last? When properly stored in an airtight container, they can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they will keep for up to three months.
Can I use a different type of chocolate? Absolutely! You can use milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even flavored chocolates like dark chocolate with sea salt for a delicious variation.
Are peppermint patties gluten-free? Yes, peppermint patties are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels on your ingredients, especially chocolate, to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.
Conclusion
Now that you have a thorough understanding of how to make homemade peppermint patties, it’s time to gather your ingredients and try the recipe! The joy of creating these treats from scratch and customizing them to your liking is truly unmatched. Whether you share them with family during the holidays or keep them as a personal indulgence, the experience is sure to enrich your culinary adventures.
We invite you to share your experiences and variations in the comments below. Happy candy-making!
peppermint patties recipe
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 electric mixer optional
- 1 baking sheet
- 1 parchment paper
- 1 saucepan
- 1 refrigerator
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (about 60 ml)
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped (about 227 grams), for coating
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and salt. Mix until it forms a smooth, thick dough. You can use an electric mixer on low speed for about 2 minutes if desired.
- Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and flatten each ball slightly to form patties. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate the patties for about 15 minutes or until firm.
- While the patties are chilling, melt the dark chocolate in a saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth. You can also use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until melted.
- Remove the patties from the refrigerator, and dip each one into the melted chocolate, making sure to coat it evenly. Use a fork to lift them out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off.
- Place the chocolate-coated patties back on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Refrigerate again for about 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
- Once set, your peppermint patties are ready to serve or store.
