Chocolate Covered Mint Patties have a way of transporting me straight back to my childhood kitchen. I can almost smell the sweet peppermint mingling with rich chocolate, a scent that always meant holidays and special treats. My grandmother used to make these every year, and watching her carefully dip each little disc was pure magic. Now, I’ve perfected her technique into this wonderfully easy chocolate mint patties recipe, and I’m so excited to share it with you. These aren’t just candies; they’re little bites of nostalgia, bursting with cool mint and decadent chocolatey goodness. Let’s get cooking!

You’re going to adore these Chocolate Covered Mint Patties for so many reasons! They’re incredibly simple to whip up, making them the perfect weekend project or quick treat. Plus, the taste is just divine – that perfect balance of cool, refreshing mint and sweet, smooth chocolate is truly irresistible.

• Irresistible Taste: The classic combination of cool mint and rich chocolate is a winner every time.
• Quick Prep Time: You can have these ready to freeze in under 20 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly: Making these homemade chocolate mint patties is much more affordable than buying them.
• Family Fun: Kids love helping to roll and flatten the mint dough for these homemade chocolate mint patties.
• Impressive Results: They look and taste gourmet, but are surprisingly easy to make.
• Naturally Vegetarian: Perfect for anyone following a vegetarian diet.
• Customizable: Easily adapt them with dark or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.

Ingredients for Homemade Chocolate Mint Patties

Whipping up these delicious chocolate mint patties is a breeze with just a few pantry staples. The base of our filling is simple: we use 1 cup powdered sugar for sweetness and structure, and 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, to give it a rich, creamy texture. A splash of 2 tablespoons milk helps bind everything together smoothly. For that signature cool flavor, we add 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract and a touch of 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract to round out the taste. When it comes to the coating for this wonderful chocolate mint candy recipe, you’ll need 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening. The shortening helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates that perfect shiny finish.

How to Make Chocolate Covered Mint Patties

Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious homemade chocolate mint treats. This recipe for chocolate covered peppermint patties is straightforward and yields fantastic results.

1. Step 1: First, let’s make the mint filling. In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, 2 tablespoons milk, 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat everything together until it’s smooth and forms a cohesive dough. It should feel pliable and smell wonderfully minty!
2. Step 2: Now, roll small portions of this mint dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Gently flatten each ball into a disc shape, aiming for a uniform thickness. Place these discs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pop them into the freezer for at least 30 minutes until they are nice and firm. This chilling step is crucial for easy dipping later.
3. Step 3: While your mint discs are chilling, prepare the luscious chocolate coating. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips and the 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening. Microwave on 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smoothly combined. The shortening ensures a glossy, fluid coating perfect for these chocolate covered peppermint patties.
4. Step 4: Once the mint discs are firm, it’s time for the magic! Carefully dip each frozen mint disc into the warm, melted chocolate. Use a fork to gently turn the disc, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Lift the patty with the fork and let any excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. This helps achieve that perfect coating thickness.
5. Step 5: Place the newly coated chocolate mint patties back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they have a little space between them so they don’t stick together as the chocolate sets.
6. Step 6: Allow the chocolate to set completely. For a quicker set, you can place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the chocolate is firm to the touch and no longer sticky.
7. Step 7: Once set, your delightful chocolate covered mint patties are ready to be enjoyed! These homemade delights are sure to impress.

Pro Tips for the Best Chocolate Covered Mint Patties

Want to make your homemade chocolate mint treats absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that really elevate these candies. Follow these simple tips to guarantee success and impress everyone with your delicious creations.

• Always use room temperature butter for the mint filling. This ensures it blends smoothly with the powdered sugar, preventing a grainy texture in your chocolate mint patties.
• Don’t skip the freezing step! Chilling the mint discs until firm is key to successfully dipping them without them falling apart in the melted chocolate.
• For a cleaner coating, use a fork to dip and lift each patty. Let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl before placing it on the parchment paper.
• If your chocolate thickens too much while dipping, gently reheat it in 15-second intervals in the microwave, stirring each time.

What’s the secret to perfect Chocolate Covered Mint Patties?

The secret to the best chocolate mint patties lies in perfectly firm mint centers and a beautifully tempered chocolate coating. Freezing the mint discs until solid before dipping is crucial, ensuring they hold their shape and don’t melt into the warm chocolate. For more tips on achieving perfect results, you might find resources on food science helpful.

Can I make Chocolate Covered Mint Patties ahead of time?

Absolutely! These are fantastic for meal prep. You can make the mint discs a day or two in advance and keep them in the refrigerator. Once coated, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, as refrigeration can cause condensation.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Chocolate Covered Mint Patties?

A common pitfall is dipping soft mints, which causes them to break. Always freeze them until solid. Also, ensure your chocolate isn’t too hot, or it can melt the mints. Lastly, don’t overcrowd the parchment paper as the chocolate sets, or they might stick together.

Best Ways to Serve Chocolate Covered Mint Patties

These delightful chocolate mint patties are perfect for so many occasions! They make a wonderful after-dinner treat, especially when served alongside a warm cup of coffee or a soothing herbal tea. For a more elegant presentation, arrange a few on a dessert platter with other small bites. They’re also a fantastic addition to holiday cookie boxes. If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, imagine pairing them with a crisp green salad after a rich meal. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside some delicate mint chocolate thins for a layered minty experience. You might also enjoy a refreshing mint raspberry julep with these treats.

Nutrition Facts for Chocolate Covered Mint Patties

When you’re enjoying these delightful homemade treats, it’s helpful to know what’s in them. Each of these little chocolate mint patties offers a sweet indulgence.

• Serving Size: 1 patty
• Calories: 150
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 5mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used for your chocolate mint candy recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Chocolate Covered Mint Patties

Properly storing your delicious chocolate mint candies ensures they stay fresh and delightful for weeks to come. Once your homemade treats have completely cooled and the chocolate coating is firm, it’s time to think about storage. I like to place them in an airtight container, making sure they aren’t stacked too high to avoid smudging the chocolate. For everyday enjoyment, keep them at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve made a big batch and want them to last longer, these chocolate covered peppermint patties freeze beautifully. Wrap them well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store them in your freezer for up to 3 months. For other delicious dessert ideas, check out this pistachio pavlova.

When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen treat, there’s no need for reheating! Simply take a frozen patty out of the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. It will be perfectly chilled and ready to eat. This method preserves their texture and flavor wonderfully, making them taste just as fresh as the day you made them.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chocolate Mint Candy Recipe

How do I make the mint centers for chocolate mint patties?

Making the mint centers for your chocolate mint candy recipe is super simple! You just mix together powdered sugar, softened butter, milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract until it forms a smooth dough. Then, you roll this dough into small balls, flatten them into discs, and freeze them until firm. This easy process is the first step in how to make chocolate mint patties. For more baking tips, you can explore resources on culinary techniques.

Can I use different types of chocolate for coating?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, feel free to experiment. You can use dark chocolate mint patties for a richer, less sweet flavor, or opt for white chocolate mint patties for a sweeter, creamier coating. Just ensure you use good quality chocolate and add a bit of shortening for a smooth melt.

What if my chocolate coating is too thick?

If your melted chocolate becomes too thick for dipping, don’t worry! Gently reheat it in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring well after each one. You can also stir in another teaspoon of vegetable shortening to thin it out. This ensures you get a beautiful, even coat on your chocolate mint patties.

How do I get a smooth finish on my chocolate covered mint patties?

To achieve that gorgeous, smooth finish, make sure your mint centers are completely frozen before dipping. Also, use good quality chocolate chips and the recommended amount of shortening. Dipping them quickly and allowing excess chocolate to drip off before placing them on the parchment paper will help create a cleaner, smoother look on your finished chocolate mint candies.

Variations of Chocolate Covered Mint Patties You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic version, get ready to explore some exciting twists on these delightful chocolate mint patties! These variations allow you to tailor the flavor and even the dietary profile of your homemade treats.

• Dark Chocolate Decadence: For those who prefer a less sweet, more intense chocolate flavor, try making dark chocolate mint patties. Simply swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for your favorite dark chocolate chips (60-70% cacao is perfect). The bittersweet notes of the dark chocolate pair beautifully with the cool mint center.
• White Chocolate Dream: Craving something sweeter and creamier? Opt for white chocolate mint patties. Use white chocolate chips for the coating. The creamy vanilla notes of white chocolate create a wonderfully different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile that’s a hit with many!
• Minty Spearmint Twist: Don’t be afraid to play with the mint flavor! While peppermint is classic, try using spearmint extract for a slightly different, brighter minty taste. A little goes a long way, so start with a smaller amount and adjust to your preference.
• Dairy-Free Delight: To make these dairy-free, use a plant-based butter alternative and plant-based milk for the filling. For the coating, select dairy-free dark or white chocolate chips and ensure your shortening is also plant-based.

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