Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make the Mint Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
- Add the sifted powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating on low after each addition. Once all sugar is added, beat on medium for 30 seconds until smooth.
- Beat in the peppermint extract and optional food coloring until evenly combined.
- Using a spatula, fold in the finely chopped chocolate chips. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Shape the Buttons: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop heaping teaspoon-sized portions of the chilled filling.
- Roll each portion into a smooth ball, then place on the sheet and gently flatten into a disc about 1/2-inch thick.
- Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to harden.
- Prepare the Chocolate Coating: While buttons freeze, combine chocolate wafers and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring vigorously after each, until completely smooth and fluid.
- Dip the Buttons: Remove buttons from freezer. Using a fork, submerge one button at a time into the melted chocolate, tap off excess, and slide it back onto the parchment paper.
- If adding garnish like crushed candy canes, sprinkle on immediately after dipping. Reheat chocolate for 10 seconds if it thickens.
- Set & Serve: Let dipped buttons sit at room temperature until the chocolate shell is firm, about 1 hour (or refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up).
- Optionally, melt a small amount of white chocolate and drizzle over the set buttons for decoration.
Notes
Ensure cream cheese is fully softened to avoid a lumpy filling. Chilling the filling and freezing the shaped buttons are crucial for easy handling and a clean chocolate dip. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months (thaw in fridge overnight). For best results, use high-quality chocolate or melting wafers designed for coating.
