Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties are a delightful treat that captures the spirit of any celebration! Perfect for the 4th of July and adaptable for various holidays, these colorful peppermint candies bring joy to every gathering. With their vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, they are sure to impress your guests and make your festivities even sweeter.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these festive treats in no time.
• Customizable Flavors: Choose from a variety of extracts to create your perfect flavor profile. Lemon, peppermint, or any other extract you love—it’s all up to you!
• Visually Stunning: The red, white, and blue colors make these peppermint patties a showstopper on any dessert table.
• Great for Any Occasion: While they shine at patriotic holidays, these candies are suitable for birthdays, parties, or just a fun afternoon treat.
• Fun Activity for Kids: Involve children in the kitchen by letting them help with coloring and shaping the patties!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties, gather your tools. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl is essential for combining ingredients without making a mess.
• Electric Mixer: This tool saves time and effort when beating the mixture to combine all elements smoothly.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties:

For the Base Mixture

• 1/4 cup butter (softened)
• 1/3 cup light corn syrup
• 4 cups powdered sugar (divided)
• 1 1/2 tsp lemon extract (OR 1/2 to 1 tsp peppermint extract OR any other extract you want)

For Color

• Food coloring (I used Wilton’s red and blue icing color in gel format)

For Coating

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

How to Make Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Step 1: Combine Butter and Corn Syrup

Start by combining the softened butter with light corn syrup in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer or whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar and Extract

Add 2 cups of powdered sugar along with your choice of extract. Beat the mixture until it is thoroughly combined. Add more extract gradually until you reach your desired flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Additional Powdered Sugar

Stir in another cup of powdered sugar. This will help thicken the mixture.

Step 4: Prepare for Kneading

Turn the mixture onto a cutting board that has been sprinkled with the remaining powdered sugar.

Step 5: Knead Until Smooth

Knead the candy mixture until all the sugar is absorbed and it becomes completely smooth.

Step 6: Divide Dough into Portions

Divide the dough into three equal portions to create your red, white, and blue layers.

Step 7: Color Your Dough

Tint one portion red with food coloring and another blue. Leave one portion white.

Step 8: Shape into Balls

Roll each colored portion into small balls about 3/4 inch in size. Then roll each ball in granulated sugar for added sweetness.

Step 9: Flatten Gently

Using a fork, gently flatten each ball to form a patty shape.

Step 10: Let Candies Set

Allow the candies to stand uncovered at room temperature for one day so they firm up nicely.

Step 11: Store Properly

Once set, store your Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

How to Serve Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

These delightful Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties are a fun and festive treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday gathering, here are some creative serving suggestions to impress your guests.

Festive Dessert Platter

• Arrange assorted peppermint patties on a colorful platter for a vibrant dessert display.
• Pair with fresh berries to enhance the red, white, and blue theme.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble peppermint patties over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing twist.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Gift Packaging

• Package individual peppermint patties in clear bags tied with red, white, and blue ribbons.
• Perfect as homemade gifts for friends and family during celebrations.

Party Favors

• Place peppermint patties in small jars labeled with the occasion’s date.
• Guests will love taking home these sweet mementos!

Cool Summer Treats

• Serve chilled peppermint patties alongside lemonade at outdoor gatherings.
• Their refreshing taste makes them ideal for hot summer days.

How to Perfect Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

To make sure your Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use softened butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother texture.
• Add extract gradually: Start with 1/2 teaspoon of extract and increase based on your flavor preference; this prevents overpowering the taste.
• Knead thoroughly: Kneading the mixture well helps distribute the ingredients evenly and creates a smooth finish.
• Color adjustments: If using gel food color, add it slowly until you achieve your desired shade without making the mixture too wet.
• Store properly: Keep your peppermint patties in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer periods.
• Let them sit: Allow candies to stand at room temperature for a full day to develop their flavors fully.

Best Side Dishes for Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Pairing side dishes with your Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties can elevate your dessert experience. Consider these tasty options that complement sweet treats beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the patties.
2. Classic Coleslaw
   The crispness of coleslaw provides a crunchy balance alongside the soft texture of peppermint patties.
3. Grilled Veggies
   Lightly charred veggies add a savory element that pairs well with sweet desserts.
4. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad offers heartiness that contrasts nicely with minty flavors.
5. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpoint to the sugary treats.
6. Chocolate-Dipped Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels complements the sweetness while adding texture variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties is fun, but there are a few common mistakes to watch for to ensure your candies turn out perfectly.

• Ignoring the consistency: Make sure your mixture is smooth before shaping. If it’s too crumbly, add a touch more corn syrup or butter.
• Over-coloring the dough: Start with a small amount of food coloring. You can always add more, but it’s hard to lighten the color once it’s mixed in.
• Not letting them dry: Be patient and let the patties stand uncovered for one full day. This helps them firm up and improves their texture.
• Using the wrong storage: Store your peppermint patties in an airtight container. They can dry out if left exposed to air.
• Skipping flavor testing: Taste your mixture as you add extract. This ensures you achieve the desired flavor before shaping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

• Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°F. Place patties on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes just to soften slightly before serving.
• Microwave: Use short bursts of heat (5-10 seconds) on low power. Check frequently to avoid melting them too much.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan over low heat for about 1-2 minutes until just warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties vegan?

You can replace butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. Ensure that the corn syrup used is also vegan-friendly.

Can I use different extracts for flavoring?

Absolutely! While peppermint is traditional, you can use lemon, orange, or any other extract that appeals to you for your Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties.

What is the best way to customize these candies?

You can change the colors and flavors based on holidays or personal preferences. For Halloween, use orange and black; for Christmas, opt for red and green!

How long does it take to make these candies?

The total time from start to finish is about 30 minutes. However, plan an extra day for drying so they set properly.

Final Thoughts

These Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating Independence Day or customizing them for another holiday, they offer endless options for flavors and colors. Try this recipe today and enjoy creating your unique candy delights!