Mint Patties

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These homemade mint patties are my go-to treat when I want something refreshingly sweet with a rich chocolatey shell. I love how the cooling peppermint filling contrasts perfectly with the dark chocolate coating—each bite is smooth, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent. They’re simple to make, require no baking, and they keep incredibly well, which makes them ideal for gifting or stashing in the freezer for those moments when you need a little something extra.

I first made these mint patties around the holidays as an alternative to store-bought candies, and now they’re a year-round favorite. Whether you’re looking for an easy dessert for a party, a festive treat, or just a fun weekend project, these little patties deliver every time. The texture of the mint center is soft and creamy with a slight chew, wrapped in a smooth chocolate shell that snaps with each bite.

Why You’ll Love This Mint Patties Recipe

• No baking required
• Only a handful of ingredients
• Rich, chocolatey exterior with a cool, creamy center
• Freezer-friendly and perfect for make-ahead treats
• Great for holidays, gifts, or a quick sweet craving

What Kind of Chocolate Should I Use?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for dipping. The richness balances the sweetness of the peppermint filling. You can use chocolate chips for convenience, but for a smoother, glossier coating, a chocolate bar chopped into pieces or melting wafers work best. If you’re sensitive to bitterness, milk chocolate is also an option, though it makes the patties slightly sweeter.

Options for Substitutions

• Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut can be added for texture in the filling.
• Extract: Peppermint extract is ideal, but you can try spearmint or even vanilla for a milder taste.
• Sweetener: Powdered sugar is the traditional binder, but erythritol or monk fruit sweeteners work for sugar-free versions.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free condensed milk substitute to make these vegan.
• Chocolate: Dark, semi-sweet, or dairy-free chocolate can be swapped based on preference or dietary needs.

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Ingredients for This Mint Patties Recipe

• Powdered Sugar: Acts as the base for the mint filling. It gives structure and sweetness while keeping the texture smooth and creamy.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Binds the powdered sugar and gives the filling a rich, soft consistency. It also adds moisture and helps balance the mint flavor.
• Peppermint Extract: The essential ingredient for that fresh, cooling flavor. A little goes a long way.
• Green Food Coloring (optional): Gives the patties a classic minty green hue. Not necessary, but visually appealing.
• Dark Chocolate (or semi-sweet chocolate): For dipping the patties. Choose high-quality chocolate for the best taste and texture.
• Coconut Oil or Shortening (optional): Helps smooth out the melted chocolate and gives the coating a nice sheen.

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Step 1: Make the Mint Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Stir with a spatula until a thick dough forms. Add the peppermint extract and a few drops of green food coloring (if using), then mix until evenly incorporated and the color is uniform.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mint dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten gently into a disc shape, about 1/4 inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining dough. Once all patties are shaped, place the tray in the freezer for 30–40 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While the patties chill, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. If using, stir in a teaspoon of coconut oil or shortening to help thin and smooth the chocolate.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Remove the mint discs from the freezer. Use a fork to dip each patty into the melted chocolate, letting the excess drip off before placing them back onto the parchment paper. Work quickly to avoid the mint centers softening too much.

Step 5: Let Them Set

Once all the patties are coated, let them sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, or place them in the fridge for 10–15 minutes for quicker results. Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

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How Long to Prepare the Mint Patties

Making these mint patties is surprisingly efficient for how impressive they turn out. The hands-on time is about 20–25 minutes, with some additional chilling and setting time.

• Preparation Time: Mixing and shaping the mint filling takes roughly 15 minutes. Dipping in chocolate takes another 10–15 minutes.
• Chill & Set Time: Freezing the patties before dipping takes 30–40 minutes. After coating in chocolate, they’ll need another 10–15 minutes to set in the fridge.

In total, expect about 1.5 hours from start to finish, with only half of that being active work.

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Tips for Perfect Mint Patties

• Sift the powdered sugar to avoid clumps in the filling.
• Taste the filling before shaping—adjust the peppermint extract if needed.
• Keep patties cold before dipping so they don’t lose shape in warm chocolate.
• Use two forks to dip for cleaner results and minimal mess.
• Line trays with parchment to avoid sticking and for easier cleanup.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much extract: Peppermint is strong—overdoing it can lead to a harsh, overpowering taste.
• Skipping the chill step: Warm filling will melt in the chocolate, making dipping messy and uneven.
• Overheating the chocolate: Chocolate that’s too hot can seize or develop a gritty texture.
• Not drying the filling: If your kitchen is humid, dust the patties lightly with powdered sugar before dipping.
• Rushing the set: Let the chocolate cool fully before stacking or storing to avoid sticking.

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What to Serve With Mint Patties?

1. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the patties beautifully.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream

Crush the patties and sprinkle them over ice cream for a mint-chocolate crunch.

3. Dark Chocolate Cake

Serve the patties alongside a rich cake for an extra layer of indulgence.

4. Holiday Cookie Platter

They pair well with other cookies and candies during festive seasons.

5. Mint Tea

Double down on minty freshness with a warm cup of herbal tea.

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Storage Instructions

These mint patties store beautifully and can last weeks with the right care.

• Room Temperature: If your kitchen is cool, keep them in an airtight container at room temp for up to 1 week.
• Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to 3 weeks. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
• Freezer: Freeze in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per patty (approximate values):

• Calories: 170
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 25mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 5mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have peppermint extract?

You can use spearmint or a touch of vanilla, though the flavor won’t be as bold or traditional.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, substitute sweetened condensed coconut milk and use dairy-free chocolate.

Why is my filling too sticky to shape?

Add a little more powdered sugar and chill the mixture for 10 minutes before shaping.

Can I use food-safe molds for shaping?

Absolutely! Silicone molds work great for consistent shapes and sizes.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Not necessary for this recipe, but if you want a glossy, snappy finish that holds at room temp, tempering is a great extra step.

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Conclusion

Homemade mint patties are a nostalgic, refreshing treat that’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch. Whether you’re prepping them for the holidays or looking for a freezer-friendly sweet to have on hand, these little bites never fail to impress. The combination of a cool minty center and rich chocolate coating is timeless—and making them yourself means you can adjust the flavors exactly to your taste. Once you try a homemade version, you’ll never want to go back to the store-bought kind!

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