For those embracing a ketogenic lifestyle, the allure of sweet treats can be a challenge. However, with this homemade keto peppermint patties recipe, you can indulge in a classic favorite without derailing your dietary goals. These peppermint patties offer a creamy, minty filling encased in a rich chocolate coating, rivaling the taste of store-bought versions while remaining low in carbs and sugar-free.
Why Make Your Own Keto Peppermint Patties?
Store-bought peppermint patties often contain high amounts of sugar and corn syrup, making them unsuitable for a ketogenic diet. By making your own, you have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a guilt-free and healthy treat. This recipe allows you to enjoy the nostalgic flavors of peppermint and chocolate without compromising your health goals.
Ingredients for Keto Peppermint Patties
The key to these delectable keto peppermint patties lies in using the right ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
Filling
- Cream Cheese: Cream cheese forms the base of the creamy filling, providing a smooth and rich texture. Alternatively, mascarpone cheese, an Italian soft cheese that is higher in fat than regular cream cheese, can be used.
- Powdered Sweetener: A powdered sweetener is essential for achieving the right consistency and sweetness without the added carbs of sugar. A blend of xylitol, erythritol, and stevia or a store-bought powdered sweetener like Swerve confectioners sweetener can be used. It is recommended erythritol based sweeteners.
- Peppermint Extract: This provides the signature peppermint flavor. Adjust the amount to your preference. Peppermint oil can also be used.
- Heavy Cream: A dash of heavy cream helps to create a smooth and creamy filling. Alternatively, coconut cream can be used.
- Butter: Unsalted and very soft butter is needed.
Chocolate Coating
- Sugar-Free Chocolate Chips: Lily’s Chocolate Chips, Bake Believe sugar-free chocolate chips, or ChocZero chocolate chips are all excellent options. Alternatively, use Lindt 90% chocolate, which is very low in sugar.
- Coconut Oil (Optional): Adding a bit of coconut oil helps to create a smoother, more dippable chocolate coating. Cacao butter can also be used.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making these keto peppermint patties is a straightforward process that requires minimal baking. Here’s how to do it:
Preparing the Filling
- Cream the Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, cream the cream cheese (or mascarpone) with an electric mixer until smooth. The cream cheese or mascarpone must be at room temperature. This ensures that the filling mixture comes together easily and is nice and smooth.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the heavy cream (or coconut cream) and peppermint extract to the creamed cheese mixture.
- Incorporate Sweetener: Gradually add the powdered sweetener, mixing well after each addition to ensure it is thoroughly combined.
- Form the Patties: Once the mixture is well combined, form it into 24 small balls. Place the balls on a piece of parchment paper and gently press them down into one-inch circles. Alternatively, evenly scoop the mix into a mold of your choice.
- Freeze: Place the formed patties in the freezer for at least 15 minutes to firm up. If you are using molds, freeze for about 60 minutes.
Coating with Chocolate
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the sugar-free chocolate chips (and coconut oil, if using) in 30-second increments, stirring well after each interval. Stop heating when the chocolate is about 80% melted and continue stirring until it is completely smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler to melt your chocolate. Always the best way to keep chocolate from seizing.
- Dip the Patties: Use a fork to dip each frozen peppermint patty into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Lightly tap the fork with the fat bomb on top to remove extra chocolate.
- Set the Chocolate: Place the chocolate-covered patties on a new sheet of wax paper or a silicon mat on a cookie sheet.
- Chill: Transfer the patties to the refrigerator or freezer until the chocolate is set. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Tips for Perfect Keto Peppermint Patties
- Temperature is Key: Ensure that the cream cheese (or mascarpone) and butter are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Sweetener Choice: Erythritol-based sweeteners are recommended for the best texture.
- Melting Chocolate: Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn or seize.
- Storage: Store the finished peppermint patties in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for longer storage.
Variations and Customizations
- Dairy-Free: To make these patties dairy-free, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the cream cheese with coconut cream. Use ½ cup coconut oil and only 2-3 tablespoons of coconut cream.
- Flavor Extracts: Experiment with different extracts such as vanilla, orange, or almond for a unique twist.
- Toppings: Add sugar-free sprinkles, crushed sugar-free candy, or freeze-dried raspberry powder on top of the chocolate while it is still soft for a festive touch.
Serving and Enjoying
These keto peppermint patties are perfect as a sweet treat any time of day. They make a wonderful after-dinner dessert, a delightful addition to holiday gatherings, or a thoughtful edible gift. Their refreshing mint and rich chocolate flavors are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping you on track with your ketogenic lifestyle.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
The Benefits of Keto Fat Bombs
These keto peppermint patties are not only delicious but also serve as excellent fat bombs. Fat bombs are a great way to increase your healthy fat intake while on a ketogenic diet. They provide a quick and convenient source of energy and can help to curb cravings for unhealthy sweets.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto
tags: #keto #peppermint #patties