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Homemade Peppermint Patties

My family loves peppermint patties! I make them from scratch every year — it wouldn't be Christmas without them!
Print Recipe
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 28 people
Calories 5171.2 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Sheet
  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Spatula or wooden spoon For mixing dough
  • 1 Medium Saucepan For melting chocolate
  • 1 Dinner Fork For dipping patties

Ingredients
  

Main

  • ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 ½ teaspoons peppermint extract
  • 4 cups confectioners' sugar
  • 3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
  • 2 teaspoons shortening

Instructions
 

  • Line a baking sheet with waxed paper.
  • Combine condensed milk and peppermint extract in a large mixing bowl; beat in enough confectioners' sugar, a little at a time, to form a stiff dough that is no longer sticky.
  • Form peppermint mixture into 1-inch balls and place on waxed paper; flatten with fingers to form patties. Let patties dry at room temperature for two hours, turning once.
  • Stir chocolate and shortening in a medium saucepan over low heat until melted; remove from heat. Dip patties, one at a time, into chocolate by laying them on the tines of a fork and lowering the fork into the chocolate mixture; tap the fork on the edge of the pan to shake off excess. Slide the patties back onto the waxed paper and chill in the refrigerator until set.

Notes

Achieving the correct dough consistency is paramount: it should be stiff enough to hold its shape but not crumbly, and crucially, no longer sticky. Gradually add confectioners' sugar to reach this texture. The two-hour drying period is essential for the patties to firm up, preventing them from deforming during dipping and creating a better mouthfeel. When melting the chocolate, use very low heat or a double boiler to avoid scorching. The shortening is key for a smooth, glossy, and thin coating that sets well without cracking. For dipping, a narrow, two-pronged fork helps drain excess chocolate efficiently. Ensure consistent patty size for even drying and dipping. High-quality peppermint extract makes a significant difference in flavor.