Vegan Peppermint Patties

Nothing beats these vegan peppermint patties - soft, cool peppermint filling coated in a velvety chocolate shell. Made with only 5 ingredients, this candy is perfect for dairy-free, gluten-free and vegan eaters alike. Let's learn how to make them!

When I went vegan, I discovered very quickly just how limited my candy options had become. As someone who isn't into gummy or sour, I was left bereft and reeling.

Enter - these homemade vegan peppermint patties! Made with simple methods and easy-to-find ingredients, we can all enjoy indulgent, chocolate-peppermint goodness at any moment.

I love to make these around Halloween so that I can have great candy on hand, ready for the season.

If you love these as much as I do, be sure to check out my vegan peanut butter cups, vegan almond joys and vegan cookie dough bites.

Ingredients

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

• vegan butter: Adds richness, smooth texture, and helps the peppermint filling hold together while remaining creamy. Some is also used to keep the melted chocolate smooth and shiny.
• powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling and gives it structure so the peppermint center is firm enough to dip in chocolate.
• agave nectar: Adds moisture and a little stickiness to bind the sugar and butter together, giving the filling that classic soft bite.
• peppermint extract: Provides the bold, refreshing minty flavor that defines peppermint patties.
• nondairy chocolate chips: Melted to create a rich, snappy coating around the peppermint filling, balancing the sweetness with deep chocolate flavor.

Why You'll Love These Candies

Here are some great reasons why you'll love these vegan peppermint patties:

• Completely dairy-free and vegan - All the classic flavor without any animal products.
• Perfectly balanced flavors - A refreshing peppermint filling wrapped in rich, smooth chocolate.
• Cool and refreshing treat - That icy-minty bite is especially satisfying after meals or during the holidays.
• Simple ingredients - Made with pantry staples you probably already have at home.
• Great for gifting - Package them up for holidays, parties, or homemade treat bags.
• Quick to make, no fancy equipment needed - Just mix, roll, chill, and dip in chocolate.
• Freezer-friendly - They store well, so you can keep a stash on hand for when the craving strikes.

How to Make Vegan Peppermint Patties (with pictures!)

Please see the recipe card at the bottom of the page for full instructions and ingredient measurements.

Begin by adding 3 tablespoons of softened vegan butter, the powdered sugar, agave nectar and peppermint extract to a large mixing bowl. Beat until mixture is wet and pebbly.

Taking one packed tablespoon of filling at a time, shape into a 1-inch disk by pressing together firmly with your fingers.

Lay coin-shaped filling disks onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper. Set in the freezer for 15 minutes to set.

Add the remaining vegan butter and chocolate chips to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 second increments stirring after each. Continue until chocolate is smooth and melty.

Using a fork, toss the chilled disks of filling in the chocolate until completely coated. Tap off excess. Return to the baking sheet lined with wax paper. Freeze for 15 minutes before enjoying.

Recipe Tips

1. Use room temperature vegan butter - Softened (not melted) butter blends best into the sugar and agave, creating a smooth filling.
2. Adjust sugar for texture - If the filling feels too sticky, add a bit more powdered sugar until it can be shaped without sticking to your hands.
3. Chill the filling well - Let the shaped discs firm up in the fridge or freezer before dipping. This prevents them from melting into the chocolate.
4. Melt chocolate gently - Use a double boiler or short microwave bursts, stirring often. Overheating can cause chocolate to seize or burn.
5. Work quickly when dipping - Cold filling + warm chocolate = smooth coating. Don't let the chocolate cool down too much or it will thicken.
6. Use a fork for dipping - Place each patty on a fork, dip, and let excess chocolate drip off for a clean finish.
7. Top with flaky sea salt or crushed candy canes (optional) - Adds a fun garnish and extra flavor.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them!)

Filling is too sticky to shape

• Why it happens: Not enough powdered sugar or too much liquid.
• Fix: Gradually add more powdered sugar until the dough is firm enough to handle.

Filling cracks when shaping

• Why it happens: Too much powdered sugar or the mixture is too cold.
• Fix: Knead in a teaspoon of agave or a splash of nondairy milk to soften it. Let it sit at room temperature briefly before shaping.

Chocolate seizes while melting

• Why it happens: Water gets into the bowl or it's overheated.
• Fix: Melt slowly using a double boiler or microwave in 15-20 second bursts, stirring between. If it seizes, add 1-2 tablespoons of boiling water to loosen it. Add more as needed, stirring after each addition.

Patty melts or breaks in the chocolate

• Why it happens: The filling wasn't chilled enough before dipping.
• Fix: Freeze the shaped patties for 15-20 minutes before coating in chocolate.

Chocolate coating looks dull or streaky

• Why it happens: Chocolate cooled too much while dipping or wasn't tempered.
• Fix: Rewarm gently until fluid again. For a shinier finish, stir in 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegan butter while melting.

Uneven or messy chocolate coating

• Why it happens: Too much chocolate clings when dipping.
• Fix: Tap the fork gently against the side of the bowl to let excess drip off before transferring to parchment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate-Dipped Candy Cane Patties: Add crushed candy cane pieces on top of the chocolate coating for festive crunch and extra peppermint flavor.
2. Orange-Mint Peppermint Patties: Add ½ teaspoon orange zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy twist that pairs beautifully with peppermint.
3. Mocha Peppermint Patties: Mix 1 teaspoon instant espresso powder into the chocolate coating or filling for a subtle coffee flavor.
4. Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use high-percentage dark chocolate chips for a richer, slightly less sweet version.
5. Mini Peppermint Bites: Make smaller, bite-sized patties for easy snacking or holiday gift trays.
6. Sprinkle Fun: Top the chocolate with vegan sprinkles, crushed nuts, or a drizzle of white chocolate (vegan) for decoration.
7. Coconut Peppermint Patties: Add a tablespoon of finely shredded unsweetened coconut into the filling for a tropical twist.

Storing Peppermint Patties

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week. Avoid heat, which can soften the chocolate.

Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2-3 weeks. This helps maintain firmness in warmer climates.

Freezing

1. Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1 hour).
2. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
3. Store for up to 1 month.
4. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes so they soften slightly before eating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a holiday treat on a dessert platter or in gift boxes.
• Pair with hot chocolate or coffee for a classic festive combo.
• Chop or crumble into vegan ice cream or chocolate bark for a minty dessert addition.
• Use mini versions as toppers for cupcakes or cakes.

If you make this recipe be sure to tag @censoredbaker on Instagram!

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More vegan peppermint desserts:

• vegan peppermint hot chocolate
• vegan chocolate peppermint yule log
• vegan chocolate peppermint crinkle cookies
• vegan peppermint bark

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