Homemade Peppermint Patties

These homemade Peppermint Patties are a delightful holiday treat that everyone loves. These patties have a creamy sweet peppermint center with a semi-sweet chocolate coating. They only require five simple ingredients, and they make for such wonderful holiday gifts. Here's a recipe to help you create these delightful sweets:

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 2 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the chocolate coating:

• 10 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, softened butter, sweetened condensed milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and form a smooth, pliable dough.
2. Shape the dough into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Once the dough has chilled, dust a clean surface with powdered sugar and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Use a round cookie cutter or a small glass to cut out circles from the dough. Place the circles onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 10 minutes to firm up the patties.
6. While the patties are chilling, melt the chocolate and vegetable shortening together in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, creating a double boiler. Stir until the chocolate is smooth and melted.
7. Remove the patties from the freezer. Using a fork or dipping tool, dip each patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Tap off any excess chocolate and place the coated patty back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Repeat the dipping process for all the patties, and then place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
9. Once the chocolate coating has hardened, the homemade peppermint patties are ready to be enjoyed! You can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

These homemade peppermint patties are a delightful treat with a creamy and minty filling, coated in rich chocolate. They are perfect for special occasions, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Enjoy the refreshing burst of peppermint in every bite!