Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Published: June 17, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe only requires simple ingredients and minimal effort, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
Customizable Flavors: Choose between lemon, peppermint, or any extract you desire for a personalized touch.
Festive Presentation: The vibrant red, white, and blue colors make these peppermint patties visually appealing for any holiday.
Great for Sharing: With 72 servings, these treats are ideal for parties, picnics, or as gifts for loved ones.
No Baking Required: Enjoy a delicious dessert without turning on the oven—perfect for warm weather!

Tools and Preparation

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

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Cutting board
Fork
Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl is essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a smooth consistency quickly, saving you time and effort.
Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to work on while shaping and rolling the mixture.
Airtight container: Keeps your peppermint patties fresh longer by sealing in moisture.

Ingredients

Below are the ingredients you’ll need for these festive Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties:

For the Base

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

In a mixing bowl, combine butter and corn syrup. Mix until well blended.

Step 2: Add Powdered Sugar and Flavoring

Add 2 cups powdered sugar along with your chosen extract. Beat with an electric mixer until fully combined. Adjust flavor by adding extract in increments of 1/2 teaspoon until desired taste is achieved.

Step 3: Incorporate More Sugar

Stir in an additional cup of powdered sugar. This thickens the mixture.

Step 4: Prepare Your Work Surface

Turn the mixture onto a cutting board that has been sprinkled with the final cup of powdered sugar.

Step 5: Knead the Mixture

Knead the dough until all sugar is absorbed and it becomes smooth.

Step 6: Divide Dough

Divide the dough into three equal portions.

Step 7: Color the Portions

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

Step 8: Shape into Balls

Shape each colored portion into small balls about 3/4 inch in diameter. Roll them in granulated sugar to coat.

Step 9: Flatten Candies

Gently flatten each ball using a fork to create a patty shape.

Step 10: Let Stand

Allow the candies to stand uncovered at room temperature for one day.

Step 11: Store Properly

Store your finished Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful treats!

How to Serve Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

These delightful Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties are not only delicious but also visually stunning. They make for a festive treat at any gathering, especially during the summer holidays.

As a Festive Dessert

Serve them on a decorative platter for an eye-catching centerpiece.
Pair with fresh berries for a colorful and refreshing side.

In Gift Boxes

Package the patties in clear gift boxes tied with red, white, and blue ribbons.
They make great treats for neighbors or as party favors.

At a Barbecue

Offer them as a sweet ending to your summer barbecue.
Place them next to other desserts for variety.

With Ice Cream

Crumble them over vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a fun topping.
Create an ice cream sundae bar with various toppings alongside the patties.

How to Perfect Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

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

Use softened butter: Make sure your butter is softened before mixing. This helps create a smooth texture in the mixture.
Measure ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to get the perfect balance of flavors.
Adjust flavoring to taste: Start with less extract and gradually add more until you reach your desired flavor strength.
Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading helps incorporate sugar fully and enhances the texture of the patties.
Properly color your dough: Add food coloring slowly until you achieve vibrant colors without affecting consistency.
Store correctly: Keep your peppermint patties in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

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

Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet flavor. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and is easy to prepare.
Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the soft patties.
Grilled Vegetables: A selection of grilled veggies gives a savory balance to the sweetness of the candies.
Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses for guests who enjoy both sweet and savory combinations.
Mini Cornbread Muffins: These add a comforting touch that complements the dessert well.
Caprese Skewers: A light appetizer featuring mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil enhances the festive mood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties can be simple, but some common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping the Softening Step: Make sure your butter is softened before mixing. If it’s too hard, it won’t blend well with the corn syrup, leading to a lumpy mixture.
Overmixing the Dough: While you want to combine the ingredients thoroughly, overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined and smooth.
Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking relies on precise measurements. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you get the right amounts of butter, sugar, and extracts.
Ignoring Food Coloring Instructions: When adding food coloring, start with a small amount and gradually add more until you achieve your desired shade. This helps prevent overly dark colors.
Insufficient Drying Time: Allow your peppermint patties to sit at room temperature for a full day as instructed. This helps them firm up properly for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties

Oven: Preheat the oven to 200°F (93°C) and place patties on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes.
Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds at a time until slightly warm. Be cautious not to melt them.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for just a minute or two until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can customize these peppermint patties by changing the flavor extract or using different food coloring shades. Feel free to experiment!

Can I make these peppermint patties ahead of time?

Yes! These candies can be made several days in advance. Just store them properly in an airtight container.

What if I can’t find peppermint extract?

You can substitute peppermint extract with other flavors like chocolate mint or almond extract for unique variations.

How long do Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties last?

They typically last about one week in the refrigerator or up to three months if frozen properly.

Final Thoughts

Red, White and Blue Patriotic Peppermint Patties are not only festive but also versatile enough to adapt for any occasion. With endless flavor choices and colors, they are sure to impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe and make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card