Peppermint Cream Patties

Introduction

Oh, I have the perfect treat for you – Peppermint Cream Patties! These little bites of minty goodness are not just delicious; they’re addicting (in the best way possible). Imagine biting into a smooth, creamy peppermint center that’s perfectly complemented by a glossy layer of rich chocolate. It’s like a fresh burst of minty magic, wrapped in a cozy chocolate hug.

Now, I’ll admit, I’ve been making these for years. They’ve become one of those recipes I look forward to every season – not just because they’re a total crowd-pleaser, but because they bring back such great memories. Every holiday season, my family gets together to make a big batch, and we always have so much fun dipping them in chocolate and trying not to sneak a bite before they’ve cooled. It’s become a tradition that’s just as sweet as the treats themselves.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to whip up. No need for fancy equipment or any complicated steps – just mix, shape, dip, and you’re done! And trust me, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can totally pull this off. The most difficult part is waiting for them to set, but oh, is it worth it.

So, grab your ingredients and let’s get started! These peppermint patties will not only satisfy your sweet tooth, but they’ll make you look like a kitchen pro in the process. Plus, they’re perfect for gifting, so get ready to spread some holiday cheer (or just enjoy them all for yourself – no judgment here!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for Peppermint Cream Patties:

• Minty Goodness: The creamy peppermint filling gives a refreshing pop of flavor.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Coated in a rich, smooth layer of chocolate that’s pure indulgence.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time, no oven required!
• Perfect for Gifting: These are the kind of treats you’ll want to give (and receive) this season.
• Customizable: You can make these your own by using dark, milk, or white chocolate for the coating.
• No Special Tools Needed: Just a few basic kitchen supplies to whip these up.
• Make-Ahead Treat: Prepare in advance and have them ready for your holiday spread or surprise guests.
• Kid-Friendly: The whole family can get involved in rolling, dipping, and enjoying these minty creations.
• The Ideal Holiday Snack: Great for snacking during cozy nights by the fire or for serving at festive gatherings.

Preparation Time and Cook Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (no baking required)
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 24 patties
• Calories per patty: Approximately 120 calories
• Key Nutrients: Fat: 8g, Carbohydrates: 14g, Protein: 1g, Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create your Peppermint Cream Patties:

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• A pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (or use milk or dark chocolate)
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (optional, to thin the chocolate for dipping)

Ingredient Highlights

• Peppermint Extract: The star of the show, giving these patties that refreshing, holiday-inspired flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Helps create a smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture for the filling.
• Chocolate: The rich chocolate coating balances out the sweetness of the filling, adding that perfect contrast.
• Butter & Cream: These give the center a creamy, luxurious texture that’s irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Peppermint Cream Patties:

Make the Cream Filling

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, peppermint extract, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and thick.
2. Form the Patties: Scoop out small spoonfuls of the cream mixture and roll them into balls. Then, flatten each ball into a patty shape (about 1 inch wide).
3. Chill: Place the cream patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Prepare the Chocolate Coating

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. You can also melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double-boiler method). If the chocolate is too thick, stir in a teaspoon of vegetable oil to thin it out.
2. Dip the Patties: Once the patties are chilled and firm, use a fork or dipping tool to dip each patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s completely coated. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
3. Set the Patties: Place the dipped patties back onto the parchment paper and let them set at room temperature or chill in the fridge until the chocolate hardens.

How to Serve

Here are some creative ways to serve your Peppermint Cream Patties:

1. Holiday Gift Bags: Pack these in cute gift bags for a thoughtful homemade gift.
2. Serve on a Festive Platter: Arrange the patties on a holiday-themed plate or tray for a charming dessert table centerpiece.
3. Pair with Hot Chocolate: These patties are a perfect pairing with a warm cup of cocoa—what better way to enjoy the winter season?
4. Add to Gift Baskets: Tuck a few into a holiday gift basket for a delightful treat.
5. On a Dessert Table: Serve these minty wonders alongside other holiday sweets at your next festive gathering.
6. Perfect for Snacking: Keep a batch on hand for quick, indulgent snacking during the holiday season.
7. Dipping Station: Set up a “dip your own” station where guests can dip their patties in different types of chocolate or even sprinkles for extra flair.

Additional Tips

Make your Peppermint Cream Patties even more special with these helpful tips:

1. Make Them in Advance: These patties hold up well in the fridge, so make them ahead of time for an easy holiday treat.
2. Chill Properly: Make sure the cream filling is firm before dipping to avoid a mess.
3. Use High-Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the patties will taste—choose your favorite type of chocolate for the coating.
4. Customize the Coating: Experiment with white chocolate, milk chocolate, or dark chocolate for different flavor combinations.
5. Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze them for longer storage.
6. Vegan Version: Swap the butter and cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan-friendly option.

Recipe Variations

Here are a few fun twists on the classic Peppermint Cream Patties:

• Chocolate Mint Patties: Use dark chocolate for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• White Chocolate Coating: For a sweeter, creamier finish, try white chocolate instead of semisweet.
• Peppermint Bark Patties: Top your patties with crushed peppermint candies before the chocolate sets for extra crunch and flavor.
• Add Sprinkles: After dipping in chocolate, sprinkle with festive decorations like holiday-themed sprinkles or crushed candy canes.
• Mini Patties: Make smaller, bite-sized versions for easy snacking or to give as gifts.
• Salted Caramel: Add a touch of caramel to the cream filling for a sweet-salty contrast.

Freezing and Storage

To keep your Peppermint Cream Patties fresh and delicious:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze the patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: Allow frozen patties to thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Special Equipment

You may need these kitchen tools to make your Peppermint Cream Patties:

• Mixing Bowls: For the cream filling and the melted chocolate.
• Fork or Dipping Tool: To dip the patties in chocolate.
• Baking Sheet: To chill the cream patties before dipping.
• Parchment Paper: To prevent the patties from sticking.
• Microwave or Double Boiler: To melt the chocolate.

FAQ Section

Here are some answers to common questions about Peppermint Cream Patties:

• Can I use a different flavor extract?
  Absolutely! You can swap peppermint for other flavors like chocolate mint, vanilla, or almond.
• How long can I store the patties?
  They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge or three months in the freezer.
• Can I use coconut milk instead of cream?
  Yes, coconut milk works as a great dairy-free option in the filling.
• Do I have to chill the filling before dipping?
  Chilling the filling helps it firm up so it won’t fall apart when dipped in chocolate.

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Conclusion

These Peppermint Cream Patties are the perfect treat to add some extra sweetness to your holiday season. With their creamy mint center and rich chocolate coating, they’re sure to delight everyone who tries them! Whether you’re making a batch to share as gifts, enjoying a cozy night in, or just looking for a festive snack, these patties will become a new favorite tradition. They’re simple to make, so you can enjoy the process as much as the result!

I can’t wait to see how your Peppermint Cream Patties turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on social media—I love seeing your delicious creations! Leave a comment with your thoughts, share your experience, and let me know if you added your own personal twist. Enjoy baking and happy holidays!