You know that moment when you take a bite of something so delicious, it feels like the universe is hugging you with a warm blanket? That’s exactly what happens with a peppermint bark recipe. Imagine rich chocolate melting in your mouth, perfectly balanced with that refreshing zing of peppermint. The best part? It’s easier to make than convincing your dog to stop chasing his tail.
Every holiday season, this treat makes an appearance at my family gatherings. I can still hear the chorus of “Wow!” and “More, please!” from my relatives as they devour it faster than I can say “peppermint bark.” This festive delight is not just a treat; it’s the culinary equivalent of wearing ugly Christmas sweaters—totally necessary and ridiculously fun.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This peppermint bark recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute gifts or party snacks
- The delightful contrast of dark and white chocolate creates an eye-catching visual appeal
- Each bite offers a delightful crunch followed by a refreshing peppermint burst
- You can customize it by adding nuts or different flavors for even more variety
I remember the first time I made this peppermint bark for my friends during our annual holiday movie night—let’s just say it was gone before the opening credits were over!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Dark Chocolate Chips: Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich, smooth base that pairs perfectly with peppermint.
White Chocolate Chips: Choose creamy white chocolate to contrast beautifully with the dark layer and balance out the flavors.
Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way; opt for pure extract to maximize that minty flavor without being overpowering.
Crushed Peppermint Candy Canes: These add texture and extra holiday cheer; choose vibrant red-and-white ones for visual appeal.
Sea Salt (optional): A sprinkle on top enhances the sweetness and adds complexity to each bite.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make peppermint bark recipe
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there are no wrinkles that could spoil your chocolate masterpiece.
Melt Dark Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until fully melted, stirring between each session until smooth and glossy.
Add Peppermint Extract: Stir in about half a teaspoon of peppermint extract into the melted dark chocolate while it’s still warm to infuse that irresistible minty flavor.
Spread Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted dark chocolate into the prepared dish, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Let it cool until set but not completely hardened.
Melt White Chocolate: Repeat the melting process for white chocolate chips in another bowl. Heat them similarly until silky smooth—this will create your second layer.
Add White Chocolate Layer: Once your dark layer has cooled slightly, pour the white chocolate over it and gently spread it out so both layers meet but don’t mix completely.
Add Crushed Peppermint Candy Canes: Sprinkle crushed candy canes generously on top while the white chocolate is still soft, allowing them to adhere perfectly as they cool.
Cool and Cut into Pieces: Allow your peppermint bark to cool at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results. Once set, break or cut into pieces—perfect for gifting or snacking!
This simple yet stunning peppermint bark recipe will surely be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering! Enjoy creating this festive treat that will have everyone asking for seconds—or thirds!
You Must Know
- This peppermint bark recipe is a festive delight that combines smooth chocolate with refreshing peppermint
- The contrasting textures—crunchy candy canes and silky chocolate—create an irresistible treat
- Perfect for holiday gifting or snacking, and easy enough to make in under 30 minutes!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Melt the chocolate first, then spread it evenly before sprinkling crushed candy canes on top for a beautiful finish.
Add Your Touch
Try using dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor or add white chocolate drizzles for extra flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store your peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. No reheating needed; it’s best enjoyed chilled!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making this peppermint bark recipe, use high-quality chocolate for better melting and flavor
- Crushing candy canes can be messy, so place them in a zip-lock bag to minimize clean-up
- If you want a festive touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before serving
The first time I made this peppermint bark, my family devoured it within minutes. The smiles on their faces were priceless, and I realized I had found the perfect treat for holiday gatherings.
FAQ
Can I use other types of chocolate in this peppermint bark recipe?
Yes, white chocolate or dark chocolate works wonderfully with crushed candy canes.
How long will this peppermint bark stay fresh?
When stored properly, it lasts up to two weeks at room temperature.
What if I don’t have candy canes?
You can use crushed peppermint candies or any mint-flavored hard candies instead.
Peppermint Bark
Peppermint bark is the ultimate holiday treat that combines rich dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint twist. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for festive gatherings, last-minute gifts, or simply indulging yourself. With its eye-catching layers and delightful crunch from crushed candy canes, every bite is a celebration of holiday flavors that will leave everyone asking for more.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ½ tsp peppermint extract
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candy canes
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- Melt dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in peppermint extract.
- Pour melted dark chocolate into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Let cool until set but not completely hardened.
- Melt white chocolate chips similarly until smooth. Pour over the dark chocolate layer and gently spread.
- While the white chocolate is still soft, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until set. Once firm, break or cut into pieces.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (20g)
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: - For a richer flavor, consider using high-quality dark chocolate. - Experiment with toppings such as drizzles of white chocolate or additional nuts for added texture. - Store your peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
