These rich little peppermints are so fun to make. They make a wonderful gift at Christmas or Hanukkah packaged into a red, green, or blue box tied with a bow.

1. Place cream in microwave-safe bowl and heat at 50 percent power for 30 seconds. Stir in butter until melted, then blend in powdered sugar and peppermint extract. Work with hands until creamy.

2. Shape into ¾-inch balls, place on parchment paper — lined cookie sheets, and flatten to ⅛-inch thickness.

3. Place 1¼ cups of the chocolate chips in a 2-cup glass measuring cup and microwave at 50 percent power for 2 minutes. Remove from oven and stir in remaining chips until mixture is melted and smooth.

4. Dip each peppermint center into the chocolate, shake off excess, and place back onto cookie sheets.

5. Place in freezer for 10 minutes, until chocolate is hardened. Store in airtight container.