Chocolate-covered mint patties are a delightful treat that brings together cool, creamy peppermint centers and a rich chocolate coating. I love making these no-bake candies during the holidays or whenever I crave something sweet and refreshing. They’re simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and fun these mint patties are to make, especially since they don’t require baking. The texture of the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth peppermint filling pairs perfectly with the snap of the chocolate coating. They’re also great for gifting or freezing for later. Plus, I can easily customize the flavor intensity and chocolate type to suit my taste.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
¾ cup sweetened condensed milk
1½ teaspoons peppermint extract
4 cups confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar)
3 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 teaspoons shortening (or coconut oil)
Directions
I start by lining a baking sheet with waxed paper.
In a large mixing bowl, I combine the sweetened condensed milk with the peppermint extract.
I gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar until a firm, non-sticky dough forms.
Then I shape the dough into 1-inch balls, place them on the prepared sheet, and flatten them into patties.
I let the patties dry at room temperature for about 2 hours, flipping them once during the process.
While they dry, I melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
Using a fork, I dip each patty into the melted chocolate, tap off the excess, and place it back on the waxed paper.
Finally, I chill the patties in the fridge until the chocolate sets completely.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 28 patties.
Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time (melting/dipping): 10 minutes
Total time (including drying): 2 hours 50 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I swap semisweet chocolate for dark chocolate to add a deeper cocoa flavor. I also adjust the peppermint extract depending on how strong I want the minty kick. When I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll even roll the centers in crushed candy canes before dipping to add crunch and festive flair.
Storage/Reheating
I store my mint patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 weeks. If I want to keep them longer, I freeze them — they thaw beautifully. If the patties soften while I’m dipping them, I chill them again before coating to make the process easier.
FAQs
How long do chocolate mint patties last?
I keep them fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but I can freeze them for a couple of months if needed.
Can I use coconut oil instead of shortening?
Yes, I often use coconut oil for a slightly different flavor and a shinier finish on the chocolate.
Do I need a candy thermometer?
Not at all. Since this is a no-bake recipe and the chocolate is simply melted, I don’t need a thermometer.
Can I make these vegan?
To make a vegan version, I use plant-based condensed milk and dairy-free chocolate chips. It works great.
Why are my patties sticky?
If my dough is sticky, I add a little more powdered sugar until it firms up. Letting them dry well before dipping also helps prevent stickiness.
Conclusion
I always enjoy making these chocolate-covered mint patties — they’re nostalgic, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether I’m preparing them for a holiday treat or just a midweek sweet fix, they never disappoint. Once I tried making them at home, I stopped buying store-bought versions altogether.
