Vegan Peppermint Patties

Mint can be really divisive but it's important to me that you know that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT! Peppermint anything is totally good with me and I feel really bad for all of the people out there who can't stand it. Some of the most difficult things I had to give up when I went vegan included Junior Mints, those little candies they give you at Olive Garden after the conclusion of the meal, and most importantly - York Peppermint Patties. As such, I figured it was finally time to do a little research and put together my own recipe for homemade Vegan Peppermint Patties. Now you can make them too! Let's get to it.

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Ingredients Needed for Vegan Peppermint Patties

These little candies are super easy to make and all of the ingredients are super accessible. You might even already have them on hand! Here is your grocery list:

• Vegan Butter (4 tbsp): Vegan butter is a plant-based alternative to dairy butter made from ingredients like coconut oil, soybean oil, or almond oil. It adds a rich and creamy texture to the peppermint patty filling and also helps bind the ingredients together, providing a smooth, buttery taste.
• Powdered Sugar (3 c): Powdered sugar is the primary sweetener in the recipe. It adds sweetness and a smooth texture to the peppermint patty filling, helping it hold its shape and providing the desired sweetness.
• Agave Nectar (3 tbsp): Agave nectar is a natural sweetener derived from the agave plant. It has a mild, neutral flavor and is often used as a vegan alternative to honey. It acts as a liquid sweetener in the recipe, binding the ingredients and contributes moisture to the filling, making it easier to work with.
• Peppermint Extract (1 ½ tsp): Peppermint extract is the key flavor component in peppermint patties. It provides the signature minty taste that balances the sweetness of the powdered sugar and agave nectar, giving the patties their refreshing flavor.
• Nondairy Chocolate Chips (1 ½ c): Nondairy chocolate chips are used to coat the peppermint patty filling, creating a chocolate shell around the sweet and minty interior. They add richness, a chocolatey flavor, and a satisfying crunch to the peppermint patties.

Steps to Make Vegan Peppermint Patties (with pictures!)

1. Prepare Peppermint Filling: Add 3 tablespoon softened vegan butter, powdered sugar, agave nectar and peppermint extract to a large bowl. Beat together using an electric hand mixer for about a minute or until mixture is wet and pebbly.
2. Form Patties: Take 1 packed tablespoon of peppermint filling and shape into a 1 inch disk by pressing firmly with your fingers. Set disks onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper as you work. Continue until all of the filling has been used. Place baking sheet in the freezer to set for 15 minutes.
3. Melt Chocolate: Pour chocolate chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in microwave for 30 second increments stirring after each until completely melted and smooth. Stir in the remaining vegan butter.
4. Coat Patties: Using a fork, drop one patty at a time into the melted chocolate. Swirl to coat and tap off any excess. Drop onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Continue until all of the patties are coated in chocolate. Transfer baking sheet to the freezer to allow patties to set for another 15 minutes. 

Tips for Making Perfect Vegan Peppermint Patties

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality vegan butter, nondairy chocolate chips, and pure peppermint extract to ensure the best flavor and texture.
2. Properly Soften Vegan Butter: Soften the vegan butter at room temperature until it's easy to work with but not melted. This helps create a smooth and creamy filling.
3. Use Parchment/Wax Paper or Silicone Baking Mats: When shaping the filling and dipping in chocolate, use parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. This makes the process much easier.
4. Dust Hands with Powdered Sugar: Before shaping the peppermint patties, dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
5. Be Patient with Shaping: Shaping the patties may take some time and patience, as the mixture can be sticky. You can use a cookie cutter or your hands to create round shapes.
6. Chill Before Dipping in Chocolate: Place the shaped patties in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes before dipping them in melted chocolate. This helps the patties hold their shape when coated.
7. Melt Chocolate Carefully: Melt the nondairy chocolate chips using a microwave or a double boiler. Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate, as it can become thick and difficult to work with.
8. Use a Fork for Dipping: When dipping the patties in chocolate, use a fork to lift them out, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. This helps create a thin, even chocolate coating.
9. Decorate if Desired: You can sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or a pinch of powdered sugar on top of the chocolate coating for added decoration and flavor.

What is Peppermint Patty Filling Made of?

The filling of a classic peppermint patty, whether vegan or not, is typically made of a few key ingredients:

1. Powdered Sugar (Confectioners' Sugar): Powdered sugar serves as the primary sweetener and base for the filling. It provides the sweetness and a smooth texture.
2. Peppermint Extract: Peppermint extract is the key flavoring ingredient. It adds the refreshing and minty taste that defines a peppermint patty.
3. Liquid Sweetener: A liquid sweetener like corn syrup, agave nectar, or maple syrup is often used to bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the filling. The choice of liquid sweetener can vary based on the recipe and dietary preferences.
4. Butter or Vegan Butter: In a vegan peppermint patty, softened vegan butter is used to create a creamy and buttery texture. It helps hold the filling together and also contributes to the flavor.
5. Optional Flavorings: Some recipes may include additional flavorings like vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to enhance the taste of the filling.

To make the filling, these ingredients are typically mixed together until well combined, and the mixture is then shaped into small patties, chilled, and coated in chocolate. The result is a sweet, minty, and creamy center encased in a thin chocolate shell, creating the iconic peppermint patty candy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any vegan butter for this recipe, or should I use a specific brand?

You can use any brand of vegan butter that you prefer or have access to. However, for the best results, choose a vegan butter that you like the taste of, as it can impact the flavor of your peppermint patties.

Are there alternatives to powdered sugar I can use in the filling?

While powdered sugar is the traditional choice, you can try using powdered coconut sugar or a blend of powdered coconut sugar and cornstarch for a less refined sugar option. Keep in mind that this will affect the texture and taste.

Can I substitute agave nectar with another liquid sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute agave nectar with other liquid sweeteners like maple syrup or corn syrup. Just be aware that different sweeteners may have slightly different flavors, so it could alter the taste of your filling.

How do I prevent the filling from sticking to my hands when shaping the patties?

Dust your hands lightly with powdered sugar before shaping the patties. This will help prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands and make it easier to work with.

How do I adjust the peppermint flavor to my preference?

Adjusting the peppermint flavor is easy. If you want a stronger minty taste, simply add more peppermint extract to the filling mixture. Start with a small amount, taste, and gradually increase until you achieve your desired level of mintiness.

FAQ's Continued

Can I make the filling in advance and refrigerate it overnight before shaping and coating the patties?

es, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to make the patties, allow the filling to come to a slightly softened consistency before shaping.

Can I use dark chocolate as my form of nondairy chocolate for coating?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate that is labeled as vegan or dairy-free to coat your peppermint patties. Dark chocolate adds a rich and slightly bitter contrast to the sweet and minty filling.

Can I make variations of these patties, such as almond-flavored or orange-flavored fillings?

Yes, you can experiment with different extracts and flavors for the filling. Almond extract or orange extract can also be used to create unique flavor variations. Just adjust the amount to taste.

Can I make these peppermint patties gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free peppermint patties by ensuring that all your ingredients, including the powdered sugar, vegan butter, and chocolate chips, are certified gluten-free. Additionally, be cautious when selecting liquid sweeteners to avoid any containing gluten-based additives.

How do I achieve a smooth and even chocolate coating on the patties?

To achieve a smooth and even chocolate coating, make sure the melted chocolate is at the right temperature (not too hot) and use a fork to dip and lift the patties. Gently tap the fork on the edge of the bowl to further remove excess chocolate, and place the coated patties on parchment paper to set.

How to Serve Vegan Peppermint Patties

Serving vegan peppermint patties is supposed to be fun! Here are several ways to present and enjoy them:

1. On a Dessert Plate: Arrange the vegan peppermint patties on a dessert plate as a sweet treat after a meal. You can also garnish the plate with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant touch.
2. In Gift Boxes or Bags: Package the peppermint patties in decorative gift boxes or bags to give as gifts during holidays, special occasions, or as party favors. Tie a ribbon or attach a personalized note for a thoughtful touch.
3. With Hot Beverages: Serve vegan peppermint patties alongside hot beverages like coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The combination of the minty sweetness and the warmth of the drink is surprisingly comforting!
4. In Ice Cream or Milkshakes: For a fun twist, chop or crumble vegan peppermint patties and use them as a topping for vegan ice cream or blended into vegan milkshakes for added flavor and texture.
5. As a Dessert Garnish: Use a whole or half peppermint patty as a garnish for other desserts like vegan chocolate cake, cupcakes, or brownies. It accordingly adds a burst of minty flavor and an attractive appearance.
6. In a Candy Dish: Place vegan peppermint patties in a decorative candy dish on your coffee table or in your office for a convenient and sweet snack option.

How to Store Vegan Peppermint Patties

To keep your homemade vegan peppermint patties fresh and delicious, it's important to store them properly. Here's how to store vegan peppermint patties:

1. Refrigeration: The best way to store vegan peppermint patties is in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator. To clarify, the cold temperature helps maintain their texture and prevents them from becoming too soft or melting.
2. Layering: If you need to stack the patties in the container or bag, place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer. To explain, this will prevent sticking and maintain their shape.
3. Sealing: Seal the container or bag tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the flavor of the peppermint patties.
4. Refrigerate Until Ready to Serve: Store the vegan peppermint patties in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve or enjoy them. This keeps them firm and ensures they retain their intended texture and flavor.
5. Freezing (Optional): Want to extend the shelf life even further? You can store vegan peppermint patties in the freezer. Place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between the layers to prevent sticking. Frozen peppermint patties can last for several months.

Please remember if you make this recipe to snap a pic and share with @censoredbaker on instagram!

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