Low and behold – another day, another excuse to eat chocolate!
February 11 is National Peppermint Patty Day, celebrating the chocolate coated peppermint thin that not many people can resist after dinner – or before dinner. Or on any occasion where chocolate is deemed fit – which is pretty much every occasion.
Photo courtesy of Pexels
Some of you may be asking, “Why should we celebrate some mint candy?”
Well!
Peppermint patties were first created in Ireland, although they were brought to America and manufactured by two Minnesota companies in the early 20th century. Those top two companies were Trudeau’s Candies and Pearson’s, though their reign in the peppermint world wouldn’t last long.
York Cone Co. began making York Peppermint Patties in 1920 and very quickly dominated the mint candy market (Yes, there is a mint candy market – it’s a very serious thing).
Some credit York’s success compared to other brands on the “Crispness” of their thins.
Allegedly, a former York employee has shared that in her day, a York Peppermint Pattie went through one final “snap test” before leaving the factory. If the candy didn’t break clean in the middle, it wasn’t acceptable enough to be displayed onto candy store shelves.
In 2019, York Peppermint Patties have claimed the 24th spot on America’s Favorite Candy list.
Want to celebrate with a warm, minty, beverage? Check out the Hot Peppermint Pattie Cocktail recipe below!
Ingredients
2 packages (1 oz. each) instant cocoa mix
1/2 cup crème de cacao
1/4 cup peppermint schnapps
1/4 cup cognac
If desired: Sweetened whipped cream, chocolate shavings, York Peppermint Patties
Steps
1. Make cocoa mix as directed on package, using water instead of milk.
2. In a small bowl, stir together crème de caca, schnapps and cognac; stir in hot cocoa.
3. Pour mixture evenly into 4 Irish coffee glasses. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
