Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe

Picture this: the sweet, invigorating scent of peppermint swirling through your kitchen as you dip delicate, creamy patties into glossy, melted chocolate. The satisfying snap as you bite into that smooth, minty center cloaked in rich, velvety chocolate instantly whisks you back to cozy holiday memories. Making these treats is not just quick and simple; it’s pure joy wrapped in a luscious bite that you’ll want to share – or maybe just keep all to yourself. This Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe promises an impressive dessert that tastes like it took hours, yet comes together in the blink of an eye.

Why You’ll Love This Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe

• Lightning fast to prepare: Ready in just 20 minutes, these peppermint patties satisfy sweet cravings without stealing your entire afternoon.
• Simplified ingredients: Made from pantry staples like powdered sugar, butter, and peppermint extract, no need to hunt for fancy supplies.
• Perfect for beginners: Easy-to-follow steps make this recipe a fantastic introduction to homemade candies.
• Elegant yet inviting presentation: These shiny, smooth chocolate-coated patties look like luxury confections you’d find in a boutique chocolatier.
• Customizable flavors and garnishes: Add crushed candy canes or flaky sea salt toppings to tailor each bite to your mood.

Why This Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe Works

This recipe shines because of a few simple, yet magic moves. First, the secret lies in creating a thick, pliable peppermint dough that’s smooth and holds its shape perfectly when chilled. The blend of powdered sugar and just the right amount of butter and cream builds that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Next, chilling the patties ensures they firm up so when dipped, the chocolate coating glides smoothly and sets with a beautiful sheen. And finally, melting the chocolate with a touch of coconut oil yields a glossy, easy-to-dip finish that crisps delightfully. Together, these key steps ensure your homemade patties pop with flavor and charm every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, everyday ingredients come together to craft minty, luscious peppermint patties that taste far fancier than they are. Here’s what you’ll want to gather before starting your delicious adventure:

• Powdered sugar: Provides the sweet, smooth base for the minty dough.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the dough without overpowering flavor.
• Peppermint extract: The star ingredient that brings that refreshing, invigorating mint flavor.
• Heavy cream: Tenderizes the dough and adds silkiness to the texture.
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips: Creates a luscious coating, complementing the peppermint perfectly.
• Coconut oil (optional): Enhances chocolate’s shine and smoothness when melting.
• Crushed candy canes or flaky sea salt (optional): Adds festive crunch or contrast to each patty.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

• Powdered sugar: You can substitute with superfine sugar ground into powder if necessary, but powdered sugar gives the best texture.
• Butter: Use salted butter if unsalted isn’t available, but reduce any added salt elsewhere in the recipe.
• Peppermint extract: If you prefer, use spearmint extract or even a drop of vanilla with a hint of mint for a subtler twist.
• Chocolate chips: Feel free to swap with white chocolate or milk chocolate for a sweeter, different experience.

How to Make Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Peppermint Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, softened butter, peppermint extract, and heavy cream. Mix until the dough forms a thick, smooth, pliable ball. If the mixture feels too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until just right.

💡 Pro Tip: Use room temperature butter to ensure the ingredients blend evenly without lumps.

Step 2: Shape Your Patties

Roll the dough into small, even-sized balls about one inch in diameter. Flatten each gently between your palms to form discs roughly ½ inch thick. For uniformity, you can use a small cookie cutter to stamp out perfect circles. Place the patties on a parchment-lined tray with some space between them.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your hands lightly dusted with powdered sugar to prevent sticking while shaping.

Step 3: Chill the Patties

Pop the tray in the freezer for 10 minutes. This cooling step firms up the patties so they hold their shape during the chocolate dip without melting or losing their edges.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t skip chilling — it’s key to crisp, beautiful peppermint patties.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips with the optional teaspoon of coconut oil. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring well between each until the chocolate is fully melted, smooth, and shiny.

💡 Pro Tip: Stirring continuously helps the coconut oil incorporate evenly, yielding that gorgeous glossy finish.

Step 5: Dip Patties in Chocolate

Using a fork or a dipping tool, carefully lower each chilled patty into the melted chocolate. Lift it out, letting any excess drip back into the bowl. Place the coated patty back on the parchment-lined tray.

💡 Pro Tip: Work swiftly but gently to prevent the patties from warming up and the chocolate from cracking.

Step 6: Add Optional Garnishes and Set

Sprinkle the tops with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch or a delicate pinch of flaky sea salt for a magical sweet-salty pop just before the chocolate hardens. Let the patties set at room temperature or refrigerate them until the coating is firm.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding garnishes while chocolate is still soft ensures they stick beautifully and look professionally finished.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

• Dough too sticky: Adding too little powdered sugar can make it impossible to shape patties properly.
• Skipping the chill: Not freezing patties before dipping leads to melting and misshapen treats.
• Overheating chocolate: Burns the chocolate, causing grainy texture and dull finish.
• Using warm hands when shaping: The dough gets sticky and hard to manage.
• Dipping patties before chocolate is fully melted: Results in uneven coating and clumpy chocolate.
• Rushing the setting phase: Chocolate can crack or lose gloss if not allowed proper time to firm up.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, get playful and make these peppermint patties truly your own:

White Chocolate Peppermint Patties

Swap out semi-sweet for white chocolate and add a drop of red food coloring inside the dough for a festive twist that’s visually stunning and sweetly creamy.

Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Patties

Use rich dark chocolate and sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to create a sophisticated balance of deep bittersweet and bright saltiness.

Chocolate-Mint Swirls

Add a teaspoon of cocoa powder into the dough for a marbled look and an extra layer of chocolate-y flavor inside your patties.

Spicy Peppermint Kick

Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the dough for a surprising, delightful warmth alongside the cool peppermint.

Nutty Crunch Delight

Press finely chopped toasted almonds or pistachios on top of the chocolate before it sets for a crunchy, nutty finish.

How to Serve Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation by topping each patty with festive crushed candy canes, delicate sea salt flakes, or a sprinkle of edible glitter for holiday sparkle.

Side Dishes

Pair peppermint patties with a cup of rich hot cocoa, a creamy latte, or spiced mulled wine for a match made in heaven. They also complement fruit desserts and vanilla ice cream superbly.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange patties in pretty boxes or on tiered dessert trays during gatherings. Wrap individual pieces in wax paper or colorful foil for gifting. For a party, serve alongside assorted chocolates and fresh mint sprigs for freshness and flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your peppermint patties fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay deliciously minty and firm for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving to retain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Although best enjoyed chilled, let patties come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving as it can melt the chocolate unevenly.

FAQs

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Peppermint oil is more concentrated than extract, so use it sparingly—about half a teaspoon—and adjust to taste to avoid overpowering bitterness.

What if my dough is crumbly?

Add a tiny splash of heavy cream, about a teaspoon at a time, and gently knead until it holds together smoothly without being sticky.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Swap butter for vegan margarine and use dairy-free cream or coconut cream. Choose vegan chocolate to keep it fully plant-based.

Why is my chocolate coating dull?

Chocolate dullness often means it was overheated or not tempered correctly. Adding coconut oil and stirring well helps preserve shine and texture.

Can I use flavored chocolates?

Absolutely! Try mint-infused or orange-flavored chocolates for a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Is it necessary to chill the patties before dipping?

Chilling is crucial. It firm ups the centers so they don’t melt or lose shape when dipped in warm chocolate.

How do I store these in warm climates?

Keep them refrigerated in airtight containers and serve chilled to prevent melting and maintain texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, doubling these ingredients works well. Just make sure to mix the dough thoroughly and work in batches when dipping.

Final Thoughts

Making this Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe is like wrapping a little joy in every bite. Whether you’re whipping them up for a holiday party or a quiet night treat, these patties bring together timeless flavors, delightful textures, and stunning presentation—all in a flash. They’re proof that simple ingredients and a little love can turn into magic on your palate.

Have you tried this Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 🍫🌿

Print