Homemade Peppermint Patties

Homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful treat that combines the refreshing coolness of mint with the richness of smooth chocolate. These homemade versions are even better than store-bought, as they offer the perfect balance of sweet and minty flavors, encased in a glossy coating of rich, semisweet chocolate. They’re perfect for holiday gift-giving, as a sweet after-dinner treat, or simply as a satisfying snack when you’re craving something minty and chocolaty.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp light corn syrup
• 1 1/2 tbsp water
• 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
• 2 tbsp vegetable shortening
• 12 oz semisweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, corn syrup, water, peppermint extract, and vegetable shortening. Stir until a smooth dough forms.
2. Roll the dough into small balls, then flatten them into discs. Place the discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes.
3. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
4. Dip each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring that the entire disc is coated. Place the coated patties back onto the parchment paper.
5. Allow the chocolate to harden before serving. Store in an airtight container.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 peppermint patties
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

1. Dark Chocolate: For a richer, more intense flavor, substitute semisweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate.
2. White Chocolate: If you prefer a sweeter option, use white chocolate for coating the patties instead of semisweet chocolate.
3. Flavored Peppermint Patties: Add a few drops of other extracts like vanilla, almond, or chocolate mint to the dough for a unique twist on the classic.
4. Mini Peppermint Patties: Roll the dough into smaller balls to make mini peppermint patties, perfect for gifting or snacking.
5. Nutty Coating: After dipping in chocolate, roll the patties in crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a crunchy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store your homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: You can also freeze these patties for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: If the chocolate coating softens, you can refrigerate the patties for a few minutes to harden the chocolate again.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use powdered milk instead of powdered sugar?
   No, powdered milk won’t provide the same texture or sweetness. Stick with powdered sugar for the best results.
2. What can I use instead of vegetable shortening?
   You can substitute vegetable shortening with coconut oil for a more natural option, though it may slightly change the flavor.
3. Can I use dark chocolate for dipping?
   Yes, dark chocolate is a great choice if you prefer a less sweet and more intense chocolate flavor.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes, peppermint patties can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for future enjoyment.
5. Do I need a double boiler to melt the chocolate?
   No, a microwave works just fine. Just melt the chocolate in short intervals (30 seconds) and stir in between to avoid burning.
6. What’s the best way to store these?
   Keep them in an airtight container, ideally in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration helps keep them fresh longer.
7. Can I make these without corn syrup?
   Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or agave syrup, although it may slightly alter the texture.
8. How do I get the patties to be perfectly round?
   Roll the dough into smooth balls first, and then gently flatten them. The freezing step will help them hold their shape when dipped in chocolate.
9. Can I add more peppermint flavor?
   Yes, you can increase the peppermint extract to suit your taste, but be careful not to add too much, as it can become overpowering.
10. Can I use a different type of chocolate?
    Yes, you can use milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a sweeter, more indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Homemade Peppermint Patties are a simple yet impressive treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or gifting to loved ones. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create these minty, chocolaty delights that are far superior to store-bought versions. They’re easy to customize with different chocolate coatings or flavor additions, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Try making these peppermint patties for the holidays, a special celebration, or just as an everyday indulgence.

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