Name: Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2 teaspoons peppermint extract; 2 tablespoons heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk; 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 1/8 teaspoon salt; 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening; Crushed peppermint candies or flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)

Nothing beats the combination of chocolate and mint—especially when they come together in the form of homemade peppermint patties! These Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties are the ideal treat for anyone who loves the refreshing taste of peppermint enveloped in rich chocolate. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its incredible flavor but also in its simplicity. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a delightful batch of these no-bake chocolate candies, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or impressing guests at your next gathering.

Imagine biting into a cool, creamy peppermint filling contrasted with a rich chocolate shell. It’s blissful! This recipe is a wonderful option for busy days or when unexpected guests arrive. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, you can make these treats without complicating your day. They are perfect for holiday festivities or even as thoughtful homemade gifts to share with friends and family. With each bite, you can feel the fresh tastes of mint dancing on your palate, making these patty-style confections a hit with everyone.

If you’re looking for easy dessert recipes or delicious snacks, these Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Not only do they require minimal preparation and cooking time, but they are also vegetarian-friendly. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so appealing and how to make these tasty treats in no time!

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

🏆 Speedy Preparation: As the name suggests, you can make these patties in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute desserts.
🍫 No Baking Required: This recipe is all about convenience; no oven is needed!
🌿 Refreshing Flavor: The combination of peppermint and chocolate is fresh, delicious, and incredibly satisfying.
🎁 Perfect for Gifting: These homemade treats make for great edible gifts, especially during the holidays.
🧊 Make Ahead: These patties freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them any time you want!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start making your Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. Make sure to have a clean workspace and all your ingredients measured out for efficiency. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need:

1. **Mixing Bowls:** A medium-sized bowl is needed to combine your filling ingredients.

2. **Microwave or Double Boiler:** You’ll use this to melt the chocolate chips smoothly. If using a microwave, go in 30-second intervals to avoid burning the chocolate.

3. **Spatula or Mixing Spoon:** These tools will help you mix the filling and handle the melted chocolate.

4. **Parchment Paper:** Useful for lining your tray, this keeps the patties from sticking as they cool.

5. **Cookies Sheet or Tray:** This will hold your peppermint discs as they chill and set in the fridge or freezer.

Ingredients

2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
2 teaspoons peppermint extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Crushed peppermint candies or flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Begin by placing your softened butter in a mixing bowl. Beat it using a hand mixer or a spatula until it becomes smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as a smooth base ensures a lovely texture for your patties. Next, add in the peppermint extract, vanilla if you’re using it, salt, and heavy cream. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until you achieve a soft, pliable dough. Keep in mind that the amount of sugar may vary slightly, so adjust as needed for consistency.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Once your filling is ready, it’s time to shape them. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and then flatten each ball into a disc shape. It’s important to make them uniform in size for even coating later. Place these discs onto a parchment-lined tray and ensure they have some space between each. They will need to be chilled, so pop them in the freezer for about 10 minutes. This chilling step helps the filling firm up, making the dipping process cleaner and easier.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While your peppermint filling firms up in the freezer, prepare your chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips with coconut oil. Heat it in the microwave or using a double boiler, stirring occasionally until the mixture is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as burned chocolate can ruin your coating.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Now comes the fun part! Remove the peppermint discs from the freezer. Using a fork, dip each disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully covered. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off back into the bowl before placing the dipped patties back onto the parchment-lined tray. This step might take a bit of practice to master, but it’s worth it for that beautiful chocolate finish.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Chill

If desired, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or flaky sea salt on top of the melted chocolate while it’s still wet for added texture and flavor. Once all the patties are dipped and garnished, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to set. For a quicker hardening process, you can refrigerate them until the chocolate is fully hard.

Variations

Protein: Consider adding a scoop of protein powder to the filling for a protein-packed treat.
Vegetables: For an enhanced nutritional boost, add a small amount of finely grated zucchini or carrot into the mixture.
Spices: Experiment with flavor by adding a pinch of cayenne or espresso powder into the chocolate for a kick!

Cooking Notes

Make sure to use good-quality chocolate to achieve a velvety texture.
For a darker or lighter option, feel free to substitute with different types of chocolate (milk, semi-sweet, or dark).
To store, keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness; they can last up to two weeks in the fridge.
Refrigerating the filling beforehand makes the dipping process much cleaner and more manageable.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these peppermint patties alongside coffee or hot cocoa for a delightful dessert experience.
Pair them with fresh fruit on a dessert platter for a balanced presentation.

Tips

Use a cookie scoop for equal-sized patties; this will ensure uniformity in cooking and presentation.
If you’re prepping in advance, consider freezing the patties individually before placing them in a plastic bag. This way, you can grab one at a time!
It may be helpful to have paper towels on hand for any excess chocolate during the dipping process.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for melting the chocolate)
Total Time: 20 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 120 per patty
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 30mg

FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for dipping?

For the best results, high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate works wonderfully. You can also use melting chocolate or candy coatings for more accessibility.

Can I substitute coconut oil in the recipe?

Yes, you can use shortening as a substitute for coconut oil if you prefer that option, and both will yield excellent results.

How should I store peppermint patties?

Store these in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze them for a longer shelf life.

Can I make these patties vegan?

Yes, replace the butter with a vegan alternative and use a dairy-free chocolate option to make these peppermint patties completely vegan.

Conclusion

In just 20 minutes, you can create a batch of these Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties that are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a festive gathering, a sweet bite to enjoy on your own, or a gift for a loved one, these no-bake delights are a sure way to please everyone. With their refreshing flavor and satisfying texture, you and your guests will find it hard to stop at just one! Don’t forget to experiment with the variations mentioned to make them uniquely yours, and be sure to leave your feedback in the comments about how yours turned out. Happy cooking!