🍬 Homemade Peppermint Patties 🍫
Ingredients
For the Mint Filling:
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1½ to 2 teaspoons pure peppermint extract (adjust to taste)
3½ to 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted
For the Chocolate Coating:
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips (or milk/dark chocolate, as preferred)
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening (such as Crisco)
Instructions
Prepare the filling: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the sweetened condensed milk and 1½ teaspoons peppermint extract. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, about ½ cup at a time, mixing until a thick, pliable dough forms. If the mixture feels too sticky, add more sugar; if too dry, add a few drops of milk or a touch more extract. Taste and add up to ½ teaspoon more extract if a stronger mint flavor is desired.
Shape the patties: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pinch off tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared sheet, then gently flatten each into a ¼-inch-thick disc using the bottom of a glass or your fingers. For best results, let the patties air-dry uncovered at room temperature for 2–3 hours (or overnight in a cool, dry place) until firm to the touch. This step prevents cracking during dipping.
Melt the coating: In a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method), combine chocolate chips and shortening. Stir frequently until completely smooth and glossy. Remove from heat.
Dip the patties: Using a fork or dipping tool, submerge each mint patty into the melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off. Place back onto the parchment-lined sheet. If desired, drizzle with extra melted chocolate for decoration.
Set the chocolate: Transfer the tray to the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully hardened and shiny.
Store properly: Keep patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator, layered between sheets of wax or parchment paper, for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 year—freeze individually first, then pack into freezer bags.
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