Get ready to add a refreshing twist to your dessert repertoire with these delightful Homemade Peppermint Patties! With a creamy peppermint filling enrobed in smooth dark chocolate, these treats are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and cooling off on a warm day.
Ingredients:
For the Peppermint Filling:
– 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
– 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
Cooking Process:
Step 1: Making the Peppermint Filling:
- 1. In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted powdered sugar, softened unsalted butter, heavy cream, peppermint extract, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- 2. Mix the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be thick and pliable, similar to cookie dough.
- 3. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more heavy cream, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency.
- 4. Once the peppermint filling is ready, shape it into a ball and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Forming the Peppermint Patties:
- 1. Remove the chilled peppermint filling from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the plastic wrap.
- 2. Place the filling between two sheets of parchment paper and roll it out to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- 3. Using a round cookie cutter or the rim of a small glass, cut out circles from the peppermint filling. Place the circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 4. Once all the circles are cut out, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill the peppermint patties for another 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Coating with Chocolate:
- 1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate and coconut oil or vegetable shortening.
- 2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- 3. Remove the chilled peppermint patties from the refrigerator. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is completely coated.
- 4. Tap the fork or dipping tool gently against the side of the bowl to remove any excess chocolate.
- 5. Place the coated peppermint patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- 6. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top of each patty for a festive garnish.
- 7. Once all the patties are coated and garnished, return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill the peppermint patties for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate coating is set.
If desired, sprinkle additional crushed candy canes or peppermint candies over the top of each patty for an extra pop of peppermint flavor and a festive touch.
Notes and Helpful Tips:
1. Peppermint extract: Use pure peppermint extract for the best flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste preference, adding more or less depending on how strong you want the peppermint flavor to be.
2. Chocolate coating: For a smoother and shinier chocolate coating, temper the chocolate before dipping the peppermint patties. This will help prevent the chocolate from streaking or blooming.
3. Chilling time: Properly chilling the peppermint filling and coated patties is important to ensure they hold their shape and the chocolate coating sets properly.
4. Storage: Store the homemade peppermint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy them straight from the fridge for a cool and refreshing treat.
With these simple steps and helpful tips, you’ll be on your way to creating irresistibly delicious Homemade Peppermint Patties that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the creamy peppermint filling, smooth chocolate coating, and festive garnishes—it’s a cool and refreshing treat that’s sure to impress!