Name: Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks for a Festive Treat Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 2 sheets Puff Pastry (use store-bought for convenience); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (ensure it's at room temperature); 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar (or coconut sugar for healthier option); 1 teaspoon Peppermint Extract (adjust for desired strength); 1 cup Chocolate Chips (dark chocolate recommended); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (use pure for best flavor); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting); 1/2 cup Crushed Peppermint Candy (for garnish)

As I breeze through the bustling holiday markets, the air is filled with the unmistakable scent of peppermint, layered with rich chocolate and sweet vanilla. This season, I’m thrilled to share my newest creation—Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks! These delightful treats are not only an easy addition to your holiday baking repertoire, but they also bring joy to gatherings, making them perfect for sharing with friends and family. Each bite offers a flaky, buttery texture accompanied by the refreshing zing of peppermint, capturing all the magic of Christmas in one delicious cookie. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned baker, these sticks are bound to become a cherished favorite in your holiday tradition. Curious about how to whip up this festive treat? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Make Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks?

Festive Fun: These Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks are the ultimate treat for any holiday gathering, bringing a whimsical flare to your dessert table.

Flaky Perfection: Enjoy the perfect combination of flaky, buttery pastry and a refreshing peppermint twist that will delight every palate.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, this recipe is designed for those who want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: A delightful blend of chocolate, vanilla, and peppermint means these treats will be a hit with kids and adults alike!

Versatile Treat: Feel free to experiment—swap out peppermint for other flavors like almond or hazelnut to create a unique festive experience!

Perfect Pairing: Serve these with your favorite hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy holiday treat, just like my other seasonal favorites found in my holiday baking section.

Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Puff Pastry Sheets – A flaky base that transforms into a tender treat; use store-bought for convenience.
• Butter – Provides richness and helps create that irresistible flaky texture; ensure it’s unsalted for better flavor control.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the pastry sticks, balancing the mint’s zing; feel free to use coconut sugar for a healthier option.

For the Filling
• Peppermint Extract – Infuses the sticks with a refreshing peppermint flavor; adjust the amount for a milder or stronger taste.
• Chocolate Chips – Adds a rich chocolatey layer; opt for dark chocolate for a delightful contrast with the peppermint.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing warmth to the festive treat; use pure vanilla for the best flavor.

For the Topping
• Powdered Sugar – Provides a sweet finish to your pastry sticks; mix with a dash of milk for a drizzle if desired.
• Crushed Peppermint Candy – Adds a vibrant crunch and pop of color to the topping; this decorative touch will impress your guests.

These Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks are an enchanting way to celebrate the season with a delicious twist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment for baking that will help create the delightful flaky texture of your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks. While the oven heats up, gather all your ingredients and baking sheets, making sure to line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry sheets on a lightly floured surface until they measure about 1/8 inch thick. Use a pizza cutter or knife to trim the edges evenly. This will help achieve even baking and make for beautiful sticks once baked. Make sure the pastry remains chilled; if it gets too warm, pop it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the peppermint extract, chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir them until evenly mixed. This filling will give your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks that rich and refreshing flavor contrast. Spoon the filling mixture evenly along one edge of the rolled-out pastry, leaving a small margin on the sides.

Step 4: Fold and Seal the Pastry
Carefully fold the pastry over the filling to create a sandwich-like structure. Press down along the edges to seal the filling inside, ensuring no gaps remain. You can use a fork to crimp down the edges for an extra decorative touch. This step will ensure your peppermint filling stays intact while baking.

Step 5: Cut into Sticks
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded pastry into strips about 1 inch wide. These strips will form your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks. For a fun twist, you can twist each strip before placing them on the baking sheet, as this helps to create even more texture and adds an appealing visual element.

Step 6: Bake the Pastry Sticks
Transfer the cut pastry sticks to the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and puffed up. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent over-baking; you want that perfect flaky finish.

Step 7: Cool and Add Toppings
Once baked, remove the Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps them firm up. After cooling, dust them with powdered sugar and sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top for a festive look and an extra crunch.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Arrange your beautifully baked Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks on a serving platter, and they are ready to enjoy! These treats are perfect with hot cocoa or coffee, making them a delightful holiday addition to any gathering.

Helpful Tricks for Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks

Chill the Pastry: Keep your puff pastry cold before baking to maintain its flaky texture; warm pastry can become too soft and lose its shape.
Proper Sealing: Ensure edges are well sealed before cutting into sticks; this prevents filling leakage during baking, allowing your peppermint sticks to stay intact.
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different; keep an eye on your treats during the last few minutes to avoid over-baking and ensure the perfect golden hue for your peppermint puff pastry sticks.
Variations are Fun: Don’t hesitate to swap in different extracts or add-ins, such as almond extract or different types of chocolate. Explore new flavors while keeping your base recipe unchanged.
Decorative Touches: Add more visual appeal by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled sticks, elevating the festive experience and providing added flavor!

Variations & Substitutions for Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks

Feel free to get creative with these Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks and tailor them to your taste preferences!

Gluten-Free: Substitute traditional puff pastry with a gluten-free puff pastry available at most grocery stores, ensuring everyone can enjoy these festive treats!
Minty Alternative: Swap peppermint extract for Almond Extract for a delightful twist, offering a warm and nutty flavor profile that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
Nutty Addition: Add Chopped Nuts (like pecans or walnuts) into the filling for an exciting crunch and an extra layer of texture. This fun twist elevates your pastry sticks and makes them even more special!
Fruity Delight: Incorporate Dried Cranberries or Cherries into your filling for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the peppermint and chocolate beautifully. It’s a perfect pop of color and taste for the holiday season!
Vegan Version: Use a vegan puff pastry and substitute butter with coconut oil. Replace the eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with a bit of water for a compassionate but delicious treat!
Chocolate Lovers: For an even richer taste, mix Peanut Butter Chips or Caramel Bits into your chocolate filling. These combinations create a mouthwatering experience and hike those flavor levels!
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle your baked sticks with a Homemade Chocolate Sauce or Caramel Drizzle after cooling to create an irresistible indulgence. It makes for a stunning presentation that will wow your guests!
Festive Flair: Top with red and green sprinkles instead of crushed peppermint for a delightful holiday presentation. It adds a joyful pop of color and cheer to your tasty baked treats!

Experimenting is where the magic happens, so don’t hesitate to explore these substitutions and make them your own. Consider even pairing them with a delightful holiday drink like Homemade Hot Chocolate or serving alongside gingerbread cookies to create a truly festive spread!

What to Serve with Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks?

Pairing these delightful treats with the right sides can elevate your holiday celebrations to a whole new level.

Rich Hot Chocolate: This creamy drink balances the refreshing peppermint flavors perfectly, creating a cozy, festive experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside warm pastries adds a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors, perfect for dessert lovers.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices of chai complement the peppermint without overwhelming, bringing a fragrant touch that’s comforting and aromatic.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese adds a creamy counterpart to the crispy, sweet sticks, enhancing the flavor profile of your spread.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits provide a juicy freshness to balance the richness of the pastries, making for a lighter, palate-cleansing option.
Classic Holiday Punch: Serve a fruity punch that harmonizes with the festive spirit, with hints of citrus and spice to complement the sweetness of the sticks.
Almond Biscotti: For a crunchy texture contrast and nutty flavor, serve alongside your peppermint puff pastry sticks—perfect for dipping in warm beverages.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness in cranberry sauce offers a refreshing bite that pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the pastries.
Gingerbread Cookies: Extend your holiday theme with a batch of gingerbread cookies, bridging the flavors and making for a lovely dessert spread.

Make Ahead Options

These Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks are ideal for meal prep, allowing busy home cooks to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the puff pastry up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it out, filling it with the chocolate-peppermint mixture, and folding it into sticks. Simply wrap the prepared pastry tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This way, you’ll preserve the flaky texture while ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, just slice and bake them directly from the fridge, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time if needed. With these make-ahead options, enjoy a stress-free holiday gathering with delicious treats ready to impress!

How to Store and Freeze Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks

Room Temperature: Store leftover peppermint puff pastry sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their flakiness.

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Just remember to bring them back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a zip-top bag or airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen peppermint puff pastry sticks, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and flaky, bringing back that delightful texture!

Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks Recipe FAQs

What type of puff pastry should I use?
I recommend using store-bought puff pastry sheets for convenience and to save time. They have a beautiful flaky texture which is perfect for making Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks. If you want a bit of fun, you could also try making homemade puff pastry, but this requires more time and effort.

How long can I store leftover puff pastry sticks?
To keep your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, where they will last about 5 days. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the baked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and let them freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back their delightful texture.

What if my pastry sticks don’t puff up properly?
If your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks don’t puff as expected, it could be because the pastry was warm or not chilled enough before baking. To ensure a good rise, always keep your puff pastry cold until it goes into the oven, and avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking, as this can cause fluctuations in temperature.

Are these puff pastry sticks gluten-free?
While traditional puff pastry is not gluten-free, you can find gluten-free puff pastry options in stores. Be sure to check the packaging for substitutes in your ingredients, like using certified gluten-free extracts and chocolate chips, to make your Peppermint Puff Pastry Sticks suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I add more flavors to my puff pastry sticks?
Very! Feel free to experiment with different extracts or flavorings. Swapping peppermint for almond or hazelnut extract can create a unique twist on the classic recipe. Just be mindful of the amount you use, as some extracts can be more potent than others.