Ingredients
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk1 tablespoon light corn syrup4-1/2 to 5 cups confectioners’ sugar2 to 4 drops peppermint oil2-1/2 pounds dark chocolate candy coating, coarsely chopped, divided1 jar (16 ounces) maraschino cherries
Preparation
In a large bowl, combine milk and corn syrup. Gradually beat in confectioners’ sugar (mixture will be stiff). Divide into two portions.
For peppermint patties, add the peppermint oil to one portion. Shape 1/2 teaspoonfuls into balls and flatten. In a microwave, melt 1 pound of candy coating, stir until smooth. With a slotted spoon, dip peppermint disks in coating; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper to harden. Refrigerate in an airtight container.
For chocolate-covered cherries, drain cherries, reserving 3 tablespoons of juice; set cherries aside. Combine juice with remaining fondant. Add additional confectioners’ sugar if necessary to form a stiff mixture.
Roll into 1-in. balls; flatten to 2-in. circles. Wrap each circle around a cherry and carefully shape into a ball. Place on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Cover loosely. Melt remaining candy coating; dip cherries in coating; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper to harden. Refrigerate in an airtight container for 1-2 weeks for candy to ripen and center to soften.
