Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

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Ever crave a cool, minty dessert with just the right touch of chocolate but don’t want to wait hours for it to set? These Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties are your sweet tooth’s dream. They bring the nostalgic flavor of classic peppermint candies with a homemade charm—perfect for the holidays or any time you need a refreshing bite-sized indulgence.

This no-bake recipe is incredibly simple to make and doesn’t require any complicated equipment or baking skills. With a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint filling tucked between smooth, glossy chocolate layers, these patties come together faster than most cookies. Once you see how easy it is to make your own, you’ll never reach for the store-bought version again.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating peppermint patties at home only requires a few basic kitchen tools:

• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining the filling ingredients until they form a smooth dough.
• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Speeds up the mixing process and ensures a creamy, lump-free peppermint center.
• Baking Sheet: Lined with parchment paper, this holds the patties in shape while they set.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl: Used to melt the chocolate coating evenly.
• Fork or Dipping Tool: Helps in coating the patties smoothly with chocolate without making a mess.

Having these tools ready keeps the process smooth and clean. With such a short prep time, you’ll want to make sure everything is within reach to work efficiently.

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Ingredients for the Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

• Powdered Sugar – Acts as the bulk of the filling, creating a smooth, meltaway texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Adds moisture and binds the powdered sugar into a pliable dough.
• Peppermint Extract – Delivers that refreshing, cooling flavor that defines these treats.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Perfect for coating, adding a rich contrast to the minty center.
• Coconut Oil (or Vegetable Shortening) – Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates a glossy finish.
• Crushed Candy Canes (optional) – For a festive, crunchy topping with added peppermint flair.

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How To Make the Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Make the Peppermint Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract. Use a hand mixer to beat the ingredients until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. The mixture should be firm enough to roll but not sticky.

Step 2: Shape and Chill

Scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Flatten each into a disc using your hands. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes to firm up before dipping.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in 20-second bursts, stirring in between, until fully smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Coat the Patties

Using a fork or dipping tool, dunk each chilled peppermint disc into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Tap off the excess and return to the baking sheet.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Set

Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top if desired. Let the patties firm up at room temperature or speed up the process by refrigerating them for 5 minutes.

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Serving and Storing Your Peppermint Patties

These peppermint patties are perfect served chilled. The mint flavor becomes even more refreshing when cold, and the chocolate shell has a satisfying snap. You can arrange them on a holiday dessert platter or wrap them individually in wax paper for homemade gifts.

To store, place the patties in an airtight container, layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep them refrigerated for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage—up to 3 months. Let them come to room temperature before serving if frozen, or enjoy them straight from the fridge for a cool treat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the peppermint filling from sticking to my hands?

Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar before rolling the mixture. This keeps the dough from clinging and helps you shape them neatly.

Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?

Peppermint extract gives a cleaner, more intense flavor that works best here. Mint extract can contain spearmint, which may alter the taste.

What kind of chocolate works best?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal, but dark chocolate works beautifully if you prefer a more bittersweet contrast.

Do I need a candy thermometer?

Not at all! This is a no-cook recipe for the filling, and the chocolate is melted gently in the microwave.

Can I make them ahead for a party?

Absolutely. These are perfect make-ahead treats. You can prepare them a few days in advance and keep them chilled until serving.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, all the base ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your labels to be sure, especially with chocolate brands.

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Want More Chocolate Dessert Ideas?

If you love the balance of rich chocolate with bright flavors, don’t stop here. You might enjoy my Indulgent Chocolate Chess Pie, which has a fudge-like filling that’s great for dinner parties. Or dive into Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for a layered no-bake option.

Want to keep the mint-chocolate combo alive? Try the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes – they’re gooey and topped with toasted marshmallow.

If you’re after something even easier, my 6-Minute Caramel Recipe might be the next thing you fall in love with. Or check out No-Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake for a chilled treat you can whip up in advance.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your favorite dessert boards for later. Just click the Pin button and keep it handy for the next sweet craving.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how they turned out! Did you add a twist or keep it classic? Leave a comment below and tag me on Pinterest where I share daily bites from LadyPlate. Let’s keep the chocolate peppermint love going.

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