If you’re dreaming of a sweet treat that perfectly balances the cool tingle of mint with rich, velvety chocolate, let me introduce you to Chocolate Mint Creams. These delightful, no-bake candies are little bites of heaven—smooth, creamy centers enrobed in glossy chocolate with just the right hint of peppermint and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you want a homemade holiday gift or just a tray of secretly indulgent, after-dinner delights, this recipe delivers all that classic “chocolate mint” magic with just a few simple steps and ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about making Chocolate Mint Creams is how few ingredients you need, and how much flavor they bring together. Each element plays an important role, so don’t overlook how each one shapes the final treat—from the creamy base to the crisp chocolate shell!
- Powdered sugar: This is the foundation for the creamy, tender filling, dissolving easily for that silky texture.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps the peppermint filling stay smooth and dreamy.
- Heavy cream: Gives the center its signature creamy, melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Peppermint extract: The star flavor, just a touch brightens and intensifies the mint sensation without overpowering.
- Green food coloring (optional): For that classic pale green hue—completely optional but fun for a colorful pop!
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips: The perfect balance of deep chocolatey flavor with a bit of sweetness to coat your creams.
- Coconut oil or shortening: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and creates the prettiest glossy finish.
How to Make Chocolate Mint Creams
Step 1: Mix Up the Minty Center
Start by combining the powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and peppermint extract in a medium bowl. With a spatula or hand mixer, beat everything together until you have a thick, smooth dough. If you’re going for that dreamy green shade, add a drop or two of food coloring here and mix until the color is even.
Step 2: Shape and Chill
Scoop up small portions of the dough, roll them between your palms into balls, and gently flatten each one into a disc—about the size of a quarter is perfect. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Once they’re all shaped, pop the tray in the freezer for 20 to 30 minutes; this step helps the creams firm up so they’re easy to dip later.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
While the mint centers are chilling, place your chocolate chips and coconut oil (or shortening) in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until everything is melted and smooth. The coconut oil makes the chocolate extra silky and shiny—just what you want for dipping!
Step 4: Dip and Set
Now for the fun part! Working one at a time, dip each chilled mint cream into the melted chocolate, gently turning to coat it completely. Let any excess chocolate drip off, then return the coated cream to the parchment. When they’re all dipped, transfer the tray to the fridge so the chocolate sets up with that irresistible snap.
How to Serve Chocolate Mint Creams
Garnishes
A sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies or a dusting of cocoa powder on top of each Chocolate Mint Cream can take them from simple to show-stopper. Or, place a tiny mint leaf or chocolate swirl on each for an elegant, professional finish!
Side Dishes
Chocolate Mint Creams pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, a mug of rich cocoa, or even a spread of fresh berries. If you’re serving them for a party, nestle them alongside other assorted holiday cookies or candies.
Creative Ways to Present
Layer your Chocolate Mint Creams in a festive tin, tuck them in mini cupcake liners, or jazz up a dessert board for a gorgeous centerpiece. For gifts, stack them in a glass jar or wrap a handful in cellophane tied with a ribbon!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once set, these candies keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking, and they’ll stay perfectly fresh.
Freezing
Chocolate Mint Creams freeze like a dream! Arrange them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, using parchment between layers. They’ll keep for several months—just thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
No reheating required! But if you prefer a softer bite, let them sit at room temperature for a couple of minutes. The centers become extra creamy while the chocolate shell stays snappy.
FAQs
Can I use a different extract flavor?
Absolutely! Try vanilla, orange, or even almond extract to create fun twists on the classic Chocolate Mint Creams. Just remember to use less-strong extracts so the flavor isn’t overwhelming.
Are these gluten-free?
Yes—for most people! All the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but double-check your chocolate chips and peppermint extract, as some brands can sneak in additives.
How do I keep my chocolate coating smooth and shiny?
Adding a little coconut oil or shortening as directed goes a long way. If your chocolate starts to thicken as you’re dipping, just warm it in the microwave for another 10-15 seconds to keep it fluid.
Can I make these vegan?
With a couple of swaps—vegan butter, non-dairy cream, and dairy-free chocolate chips—you can definitely enjoy a vegan batch of Chocolate Mint Creams that taste just as decadent.
What if my dough is too sticky to shape?
If your filling feels too soft, add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until you can easily roll and press the mixture into discs. Or chill it briefly before shaping!
Final Thoughts
I promise, once you make your own Chocolate Mint Creams, you’ll be hooked by that cool minty middle and crisp chocolate shell! They’re fun to make and even more fun to share, so gather your ingredients and treat yourself (and your lucky friends) to this classic, irresistible homemade treat.
Print
Chocolate Mint Creams Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes (including chill time)
- Yield: 24 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful combination of chocolate and mint with these homemade Chocolate Mint Creams. These no-bake treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet indulgence anytime.
Ingredients
Mint Creams:
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- Green food coloring (optional)
Chocolate Coating:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening
Instructions
- Prepare Mint Creams: In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar, softened butter, heavy cream, and peppermint extract until smooth dough forms. Add green food coloring if desired, mix well. Shape into balls, flatten into discs, freeze for 20–30 minutes.
- Coat in Chocolate: Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil in intervals. Dip mint creams, coat in chocolate, place on parchment-lined sheet. Chill until set.
Notes
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer.
- For a white chocolate version, use white chocolate chips for coating.
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