Irresistible Dairy-Free Peppermint Patties: Your Ultimate Allergy-Friendly Holiday Treat (Vegan, Gluten-Free & Top 8 Free)

Prepare to fall in love with a holiday classic reinvented! Imagine a rich, glossy chocolate coating perfectly encasing a soft, delightfully chewy peppermint center. This isn’t just a treat; it’s a festive experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. Best of all, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring just six ingredients and absolutely no baking! Even the little ones can join in the fun, rolling the smooth dough into perfect patty shapes. What truly sets this recipe apart is its incredible inclusivity: it’s completely free from gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts, making it a dream come true for those navigating the most common food allergies. Yes, this means it’s certified top-8-free and wonderfully vegan, ensuring almost everyone at your holiday gathering can enjoy a taste of pure peppermint bliss.

For years, I’ve cherished the refreshing burst of flavor from classic store-bought peppermint patties and Junior Mints. There’s something undeniably satisfying about popping a chilled one into your mouth, letting the cool mint and dark chocolate melt on your tongue. It’s a sensory delight that signals the start of the festive season. However, for families like mine, traditional versions have always been off-limits due to dairy content. My eldest child, in particular, has never experienced the simple joy of this iconic cold treat, and that always left a little void in our holiday celebrations.

Driven by a desire to bring this beloved candy into our allergy-friendly home, I recently delved into the world of homemade peppermint patty recipes. My mission: to adapt it into a truly dairy-free masterpiece. And happily, it was a resounding success! My kids, in their sweet innocence, affectionately call these “chocolate cookies,” but whatever name you give them, prepare for an exquisite homemade candy experience. Each bite delivers a refreshing coolness, balanced by a rich chocolatey embrace, creating a luxurious melt-in-your-mouth sensation that is utterly addictive. This recipe has quickly earned a permanent spot on our annual holiday baking list; it’s just that good!

These homemade peppermint patties aren’t just for indulging yourself; they also make fantastic, thoughtful gifts for neighbors, friends, and teachers during the holiday season. The personal touch of a handmade treat, especially one that accommodates common allergies, speaks volumes. While I highly recommend sharing, I must confess, in our house, they tend to disappear rather quickly – we may have eaten every single one ourselves before they could make it out the door! But that only reinforces how truly delicious and universally appealing they are. They are a testament to how allergy-friendly treats can be just as, if not more, delightful than their traditional counterparts, proving that everyone deserves a taste of holiday magic.

Crafting these patties is a wonderful activity to share with children. I find that using a small cookie scooper helps ensure each peppermint center is perfectly portioned and uniform. Once scooped, it’s time for the fun part: letting my little boys roll them into flat, disc-shaped patties. The dough has a delightful, pliable texture, much like playdough, making it an instant hit with young hands. Their absolute favorite part, however, was crushing the candy canes and generously sprinkling them over the freshly dipped chocolate. Can you spot the patties adorned with an extra enthusiastic sprinkle? That would be the handiwork of my enthusiastic little bakers! When it comes to sweets, their philosophy certainly leans towards “more is more.” This hands-on involvement not only creates cherished memories but also fosters a love for cooking and baking, transforming kitchen time into playful family bonding.

Of course, these homemade peppermint patties are utterly delicious when left plain, showcasing their smooth chocolate shell and creamy mint interior. But for an added touch of holiday cheer, I wholeheartedly recommend the crushed candy cane topping. It not only provides a vibrant pop of color, instantly elevating their festive appeal, but it also adds a subtle textural surprise. I initially worried that the candy cane crunch might disrupt the patty’s otherwise smooth and creamy consistency. However, by adding the crushed peppermint pieces while the chocolate coating was still wet and soft, they had ample time to soften considerably as the chocolate set. The result? A perfectly harmonious balance – a gentle, delightful crunch rather than an intrusive hardness. It was, in my opinion, absolutely perfect, adding just the right amount of festive sparkle and subtle texture without overpowering the main event.

A quick tip for your pantry: if you don’t have peppermint extract on hand, pure mint extract works just as wonderfully. While peppermint offers a sharper, cooler mint flavor, regular mint extract provides a softer, milder, yet equally refreshing essence. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have readily available; both will create a truly delightful and authentic tasting peppermint patty experience. The key is to ensure you’re using a good quality extract for the best flavor payoff, as it significantly impacts the overall taste of your homemade candies.

Making these delightful peppermint patties truly feels like the official kick-off to our holiday baking season, and I couldn’t be more excited! There’s a special kind of giddiness that bubbles up when I start planning and preparing homemade treats for our beloved neighbors and cherished friends. It’s a tradition that fills our home with warmth and wonderful aromas. I particularly love crafting candies that we only make once a year; it builds a delightful anticipation, making me long for them as the year-end festivities draw near. This annual ritual makes each bite feel extra special and truly savored. It’s not just about the candy; it’s about the memories, the joy of giving, and the unique flavors that define this magical time of year, all while being mindful of dietary needs.

If you’re as much of a peppermint enthusiast as I am, you’ll be thrilled to discover some of my other festive creations. Dive into the seasonal spirit with my rich Peppermint Crinkle Cookies, offering a delightful combination of chewy chocolate and cool mint. Or, for a show-stopping dessert, try my elegant Peppermint Bundt Cake, complete with a luscious peppermint ganache. For those who might prefer a different kind of sweet indulgence, my Dairy-Free Caramels are an equally fantastic and allergy-friendly holiday treat, boasting a rich, buttery flavor without any dairy. And trust me, I’ve got a few more exciting, allergy-friendly holiday treats up my sleeve, so definitely stay tuned for more deliciousness! The holidays are all about inclusive indulgence, and these recipes deliver just that.

As Thanksgiving approaches this week, I extend my warmest wishes for a truly wonderful celebration filled with gratitude and delicious food. And as your official holiday season begins to unfold, I sincerely hope it starts with an unforgettable bang. Personally, I can’t think of a better way to kick off the festive spirit than by whipping up a batch of these glorious homemade peppermint patties. Their refreshing flavor and inclusive nature are sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces, setting the perfect joyful tone for the weeks ahead. It’s an easy way to spread cheer and ensure no one feels left out of the holiday magic.

Before you dive into your online holiday shopping sprees, be sure to swing back here on Thanksgiving Day! I’ll be sharing my exclusive gift guide, featuring all of my absolute favorite kitchen gadgets. As an allergy mom, I spend considerably more time in the kitchen preparing safe and delicious meals than most, so having high-quality, efficient essentials is an absolute game-changer. This guide is packed with tools that truly make a difference, simplifying cooking and baking, and making life easier for anyone managing food allergies. You won’t want to miss these tried-and-true recommendations that are invaluable for any kitchen, especially an allergy-friendly one where precision and safety are paramount.

More Dairy-Free & Allergy-Friendly Christmas Recipes to Savor

Absolutely! I believe that holiday parties should be a joyful experience for everyone, which means offering delicious, safe, and truly inclusive food options. All of my recipes, including these delightful peppermint patties, are naturally *dairy-free*. Furthermore, they are also all *gluten-free*, ensuring even more dietary needs are met. If you don’t require them to be gluten-free for your guests, you can easily swap back in regular all-purpose flour on a 1:1 basis and simply omit any called-for xanthan gum in other recipes without issue. This flexibility allows you to customize for your specific needs while still enjoying incredible flavors. Explore my extensive list below for even more festive and allergy-friendly recipes that will make your holiday spread unforgettable:

Rich Powdered Hot Cocoa Mix: Perfect for chilly evenings, this mix makes a warm and comforting mug of dairy-free hot chocolate.
Adorable Reindeer Rice Krispies: A fun and easy no-bake treat that kids will love to help decorate, bringing festive cheer to any gathering.
Festive Eggnog Cupcakes with Eggnog Frosting: Capture the essence of holiday eggnog in a moist, dairy-free cupcake, complete with a creamy, spiced frosting.
Sweet Cherry Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies: A classic cookie with a delightful fruit and chocolate twist, entirely allergy-friendly and beautifully presented.
Delightful Maple Cookies with Maple Glaze: Soft, chewy cookies with the irresistible flavor of maple, topped with a sweet, delicate glaze.
Soft, Roll-Out Sugar Cookies: The quintessential holiday cookie, perfect for cutting into festive shapes and decorating without common allergens.
Zesty Chocolate Orange Cookies: A winning flavor combination that brightens any holiday cookie platter with its vibrant citrus notes and rich chocolate.
Charming Rice Krispie Christmas Trees: Another simple and fun treat that can be customized with green frosting and sprinkles for a truly festive look.
Easy No-Bake Chocolate Pretzel Bites: The perfect sweet and salty crunch, made without allergens and ready in minutes for a quick treat.
Chewy Chocolate Peppermint Crinkle Cookies: A festive take on a beloved classic, featuring intense chocolate and refreshing peppermint, dusted with powdered sugar.
Dreamy Dairy-Free Fudge: Indulgently rich and smooth, this fudge is a must-have for any holiday dessert spread, offering pure chocolate bliss.
These Very Dairy-Free Peppermint Patties: Don’t forget to bookmark this page for the star of today’s show, a truly refreshing and inclusive holiday candy!
Classic Homemade Oreos: Recreate everyone’s favorite cookie sandwich, made entirely allergy-friendly with a rich chocolate cookie and creamy filling.
Festive Christmas Rice Krispie Roll: A playful and colorful dessert that’s easy to slice and serve, perfect for a cheerful holiday gathering.
Elegant White Chocolate Dipped Peppermint Cookies: A sophisticated treat with a beautiful presentation and delightful flavor, ideal for gifting or special occasions.
Creamy Peppermint Pie Recipe: A cool and refreshing dessert perfect for a holiday meal centerpiece, offering a light yet festive finish.
Effortless Crock Pot Hot Chocolate: The easiest way to serve a crowd-pleasing, warm, and dairy-free hot cocoa, keeping guests warm and happy.

Dairy-Free Peppermint Patties (Gluten, Dairy, Egg, Soy, Peanut & Tree Nut Free; Top 8 Free; Vegan)

Yield:
2.5 dozen

Prep Time:
25 minutes

Total Time:
25 minutes

A rich chocolate coating enveloping a soft, chewy peppermint center is the perfect holiday treat. Six ingredients, no bake and easy to make, even kids will have fun rolling the dough into balls. This dessert can also feed just about anyone as it’s gluten, dairy, egg, soy, peanut and tree nut free; as well as top-8-free and vegan.

Ingredients

1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/3 cup light corn syrup
2 tsp peppermint extract
3 cups powdered sugar
1 cup dairy-free chocolate chips (Enjoy Life or Pascha are brands we like)
1 Tablespoon dairy-free, soy-free shortening
Crushed peppermint candy canes, if desired

Instructions

In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, combine the melted coconut oil, light corn syrup, and peppermint extract. Mix these wet ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Then, gradually add the powdered sugar, a cup at a time, ensuring it is fully incorporated. Continue to stir for several minutes until the mixture becomes clumpy and starts to come together into a cohesive dough.
Once the mixture is suitably combined, transfer it from the mixer bowl onto a clean, lightly dusted surface or a piece of parchment paper. Knead the dough gently with your hands. The warmth from your hands will help the ingredients bind together, transforming the clumpy mixture into a smooth, uniform ball of peppermint dough.
For consistent sizing, use a small cookie scooper (about 1.5 tablespoons) to portion out the dough. Alternatively, you can simply eyeball it. Roll each portion between your palms, then gently flatten it into a disc or patty shape. Arrange these formed patties onto a cookie sheet lined with wax paper or parchment paper, leaving a little space between each.
Prepare your chocolate coating: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free chocolate chips and dairy-free, soy-free shortening. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then remove and stir thoroughly. Continue to microwave in 30-second to 1-minute increments, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, with no lumps remaining. Be careful not to overheat.
One by one, drop each peppermint patty into the melted chocolate mixture. Use a fork or a dipping tool to gently turn the patty, ensuring it is fully coated on all sides with an even layer of chocolate. Lift the patty from the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off through the tines of the fork.
Carefully place the freshly dipped patty back onto the wax paper-lined cookie sheet. If you desire a festive touch and a subtle crunch, sprinkle the top with crushed peppermint candy canes while the chocolate is still wet and pliable. This allows the candy cane pieces to adhere beautifully and soften slightly as the chocolate sets.
Allow the chocolate coating to cool and harden completely before handling or eating. This can be done at room temperature, or if you’re in a hurry, you can speed up the process by placing the tray in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes. Once set, these delightful dairy-free peppermint patties are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for a colder treat.

This delightful recipe was lovingly adapted from the wonderful creators at Butter with a Side of Bread, ensuring its classic appeal while transforming it into a safe, allergy-friendly indulgence for everyone to enjoy.

Discover More Peppermint-Inspired Holiday Treats!

Elevate your holiday dessert table with this show-stopping Chocolate Peppermint Bundt Cake (Gluten, dairy, egg, soy, peanut & tree nut free; top 8 free; vegan), featuring a rich chocolate cake generously drizzled with a decadent peppermint ganache. It’s truly a celebration in every slice, perfect for impressing guests with its festive flair and allergy-friendly credentials.

Sink your teeth into these festive and incredibly popular Chocolate Crinkle Peppermint Cookies (Gluten, dairy, egg, soy, peanut & tree nut free; top 8 free; vegan). Their signature cracked surface reveals a soft, chewy interior bursting with chocolate and cool peppermint notes, making them a holiday cookie jar essential that caters to various dietary needs.

Don’t Forget to Pin This Recipe! Save Your Favorite Allergy-Friendly Holiday Treats!

Make sure you pin this fantastic dairy-free peppermint patty recipe so you can easily find it year after year! And while you’re there, be sure to explore my other allergy-friendly Pinterest boards, packed with inspiring ideas and delicious recipes to make every occasion safe and enjoyable for everyone. There’s a treasure trove of gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, and top 8 free options waiting for you!