Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

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If you’re craving a sweet bite of winter magic that comes together in no time, these Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties are your new best friend. With a rich chocolate coating, a cool and creamy peppermint center, and a snowy sprinkle of crushed candy canes, this no-bake treat brings festive joy with minimal effort. Perfect for holiday gatherings, last-minute gifts, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, they deliver big flavor in a small, easy-to-make package.

Think of these as the elegant cousin of your favorite store-bought peppermint patties — but better. They have that perfect snap when you bite in, revealing the melt-in-your-mouth minty filling that pairs beautifully with the chocolate shell. Whether you’re whipping these up as a quick dessert or part of your cookie tray assortment, they’ll steal the spotlight.

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Why You’ll Love This Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

• Ready in a Flash: Only 20 minutes start to finish, no baking required.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and simple components.
• Customizable: Add a sprinkle of sea salt, a dash of liqueur, or even crushed cookies.
• Festive and Giftable: A gorgeous addition to cookie tins or dessert platters.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to make with little helpers and easy to shape.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, lay out everything you need so the process flows smoothly:

• Mixing Bowls: One for the filling, one for the melted chocolate. Essential for keeping components separate and neat.
• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: Makes blending the peppermint filling smooth and fluffy in seconds.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: Used to melt the chocolate evenly without burning. A double boiler is ideal for better control.
• Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: This will hold the patties while they set up. The parchment prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
• Fork or Dipping Tool: Allows you to coat the patties in chocolate without getting messy fingers.
• Cooling Rack (optional): If you want extra air circulation to help them firm up faster.

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Ingredients for the Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

• Powdered Sugar: This forms the base of the peppermint filling, giving it that signature sweet and creamy texture.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: Adds a luscious richness and binds the filling beautifully.
• Peppermint Extract: The star flavor. A little goes a long way to provide that refreshing minty zing.
• Dark or Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: For the glossy outer shell. Dark chocolate balances the sweetness of the filling perfectly.
• Coconut Oil (or shortening): Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it that gorgeous snap once set.
• Crushed Candy Canes (optional): Adds texture, color, and a boost of peppermint on top.

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How To Make the Quick 20-Minute Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Make the Peppermint Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract until a thick dough forms. It should be pliable but not sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 tablespoon each), then flatten gently into discs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop into the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

While the patties chill, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler. Stir until completely smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Dip the Patties

Using a fork, dip each peppermint disc into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place them back onto the parchment-lined tray.

Step 5: Decorate and Set

Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top of each patty while the chocolate is still wet. Allow them to set at room temperature or place them in the fridge for quicker setting.

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How to Serve and Store These Peppermint Patties

Serve these peppermint patties chilled or at room temperature, depending on your texture preference. For the ultimate bite, try them slightly cold — the chocolate has a satisfying snap, and the minty center stays creamy and cool.

To store, place them in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Perfect for prepping ahead of the holiday rush!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is the peppermint flavor?

The peppermint flavor is cool and refreshing but not overpowering. You can adjust by adding more or less extract based on your taste.

Can I use white chocolate instead?

Absolutely! White chocolate creates a beautiful contrast with the minty center and adds sweetness.

What if I don’t have coconut oil?

You can use shortening or even a touch of butter to help the chocolate melt smoothly and set with a glossy finish.

Do I have to freeze the patties before dipping?

Freezing makes them easier to handle and helps the chocolate set faster. If you’re short on time, refrigerating them for 15 minutes also works.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, all the base ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but be sure to double-check your chocolate chips and peppermint extract labels.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Just use vegan sweetened condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely plant-based version.

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Want More Candy & Treat Ideas?

If you love these peppermint patties, here are a few more sweet treats to try next:

• Winter Brittle — crunchy, nutty, and perfect for edible gifting.
• Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake — for indulgent, gooey layers of bliss.
• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread — a dessert loaf with a candy twist.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake — throw it together and bake up happiness.
• Easy Chocolate Pie — no-fuss, ultra-smooth chocolate flavor.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try white chocolate or go classic?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

You can also find more everyday recipe inspiration on my Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate

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