If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of cool peppermint and smooth chocolate, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe. I absolutely love how these turn out—soft, creamy centers enveloped in silky chocolate that just melts in your mouth. When I first tried making peppermint patties at home, I struggled a bit, but after some tweaks, I nailed a recipe that’s easy, quick, and gets rave reviews from my family. Stick around because I’m going to walk you through everything to help you make your own batch of these fan-freaking-tastic treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Just a handful of basics you probably already have, making this easy and budget-friendly.
- Customizable Size: Whether you want bite-sized snacks or big candy bars, you can make these patties just how you like.
- Ridiculously Delicious: Creamy peppermint centers wrapped in dreamy chocolate—my family goes crazy for them!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, gifts, or just satisfying that minty sweet tooth anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All these ingredients come together to create that classic peppermint patty flavor and texture. I like to use sweetened condensed milk for the creamy center because it’s smooth and sticky enough to hold the shape, while peppermint extract gives that refreshing zing.

- Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is what makes the creamy, smooth center that’s soft yet firm enough to hold together.
- Peppermint Extract: Use a good-quality extract for that bright, real peppermint flavor that truly pops.
- Powdered Sugar: It thickens the filling to the perfect consistency without any grittiness.
- Chocolate Almond Bark: Easier to melt and dip than regular chocolate, plus it sets up nicely with a glossy finish.
- Sprinkles (Optional): Add a festive or fun touch, especially if you’re making these for holidays or parties.
Variations
I love that you can make this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe your own by switching up the chocolate coating or even the flavoring a bit. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite twist.
- Dark Chocolate Dip: I’ve used dark chocolate instead of almond bark for a richer taste, and it pairs beautifully with the peppermint.
- Mini Patties: For parties or stocking stuffers, make smaller discs—bite-sized and so addicting!
- Flavored Sprinkles: Seasonal colored sprinkles add a festive vibe, especially around holidays.
- Other Extracts: Tried adding a hint of vanilla or even orange extract to mix things up—totally fun and delicious.
How to Make Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Creamy Peppermint Center
Start by combining the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract in a large bowl. I like to mix these first to make sure the peppermint flavor is evenly distributed before adding the sugar. Once they’re blended, slowly start adding the powdered sugar—this part is crucial. Use an electric mixer on low, and gradually stir in the sugar until you get a stiff, pliable dough that’s not sticky to touch. If it feels sticky, add a little more powdered sugar, but don’t go overboard, or it’ll get too dry.
Step 2: Shape and Freeze Your Patties
Now, roll the dough into balls—about 2 inches in diameter works great—then gently flatten each into a thick disc around ¼ inch thick. I line a tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup, then arrange the patties without touching. Here’s a trick I discovered: freezing the patties for about an hour before dipping helps them hold together and not melt into the chocolate. Trust me, it makes a big difference!
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate Almond Bark
While your patties freeze, melt the almond bark. I use the microwave method, heating in 30-second bursts and stirring in between to avoid scorching. Once it’s silky smooth, you’re ready for the fun part—dipping!
Step 4: Dip and Decorate
Working quickly, dip each frozen patty into the melted chocolate, making sure it’s fully covered. Gently shake off the excess chocolate and scrape the bottom on the bowl’s edge to avoid dripping. Place the dipped patties back onto the parchment. If you want sprinkles, have them ready and sprinkle them on immediately because the chocolate sets fast, and the sprinkles won’t stick once it hardens!
Step 5: Let Them Set
Once dipped, let your peppermint patties sit at room temperature for the chocolate to set or pop them briefly in the fridge if you want them firmed up faster. I usually store mine in the fridge until serving—it keeps them nice and firm but still soft in the center.
Pro Tips for Making Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Freeze Before Dipping: I learned the hard way that not freezing first leads to melty, fragile patties during dipping—freezing is a game-changer.
- Use Good Peppermint Extract: The flavor really shines through, so don’t skimp here. I recommend pure peppermint extract over imitation.
- Work Quickly When Dipping: Chocolate sets fast, so have your sprinkles or decoration ready before you start.
- Keep Patties Firm Until Serving: Store them in the fridge if you can’t serve right away to maintain texture and prevent melting.
How to Serve Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe

Garnishes
I usually keep it simple with just a sprinkle of festive colored sugar or nonpareils right after dipping to add a little sparkle and fun texture. Sometimes I skip them altogether because the chocolate and peppermint combo is already perfect on its own.
Side Dishes
These peppermint patties are perfect as a sweet finish after a hearty meal. I often serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea to keep the minty theme going strong.
Creative Ways to Present
For holiday gift-giving, I like to wrap these patties individually in wax paper and place them in a festive tin or small mason jars tied with a ribbon. They make thoughtful, homemade gifts that always impress!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I keep leftover peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Just be sure to store them somewhere cool and dry, away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent melting.
Freezing
Freezing is a wonderful option if you want to make these in advance or batch something for later. Place patties in a freezer-safe container separated with parchment to avoid sticking. They keep well for up to 2 months, and I find freezing sometimes enhances the texture.
Reheating
These patties are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so I usually just thaw frozen ones in the fridge overnight and serve chilled. If you want the centers a bit softer, take them out about 10-15 minutes before serving to warm up slightly.
FAQs
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Can I use regular chocolate instead of almond bark for dipping?
Absolutely! You can use good quality dark or milk chocolate bars or chips. Just melt them carefully to avoid burning. Almond bark is just convenient because it melts smoothly and hardens quickly, but chocolate works just fine.
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How do I prevent the peppermint centers from melting during dipping?
Freezing the patties before dipping is key. It firms them up so they hold their shape when submerged in the warm chocolate, preventing melt-down or sogginess.
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Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten ingredients, but always double-check your chocolate and sprinkles for hidden gluten.
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What is the best way to store these peppermint patties?
Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze them well wrapped for up to two months.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe enough if you want something simple, fun, and absolutely delicious to make at home. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but doesn’t stress you out, perfect for sharing or gifting. I guarantee once you try making these, you’ll wonder why you haven’t before. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and join me in the kitchen—you’re going to love the results!
Print
Homemade Peppermint Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 patties 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful and refreshing treat featuring a sweet peppermint-flavored filling coated in smooth, melted chocolate almond bark. Perfect for holiday gifting or a sweet snack, these easy-to-make patties combine a creamy condensed milk base with a soft but firm peppermint dough, dipped in rich chocolate and optionally decorated with festive sprinkles.
Ingredients
Filling
- ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Coating
- 1 pound chocolate almond bark
- Sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Filling Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract thoroughly to infuse the mixture with refreshing peppermint flavor.
- Make the Dough: Using an electric mixer, gradually add the powdered sugar into the condensed milk mixture. Continue mixing until a stiff, non-sticky dough forms, suitable for rolling and shaping.
- Shape Patties: Roll the dough into balls and place them on a parchment-lined tray. Gently flatten each ball into a thick disc about 2 inches in diameter and approximately ¼ inch thick.
- Freeze Patties: Place the tray of shaped patties into the freezer. Freeze for about one hour to firm them up before dipping.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate almond bark in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip Patties in Chocolate: Working quickly, dip each frozen peppermint patty into the melted chocolate coating it evenly. Shake off excess chocolate or scrape the bottom against the bowl to remove drips.
- Decorate and Set: Place the coated patties back onto the parchment paper. Immediately add sprinkles if desired before the chocolate sets to ensure they stick. Allow the chocolate to harden completely.
Notes
- Store peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze the patties in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Adjust the size of patties as desired – larger for a classic size or smaller for bite-sized treats.
- Sprinkles add festive flair but are optional; add them promptly after dipping as chocolate hardens quickly.
- Freeze patties before dipping to prevent melting and ensure they hold their shape.
- Keep finished patties refrigerated until serving for best texture and firmness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 peppermint patty
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
