Peppermint Bark is that magical treat that seems to be synonymous with the holiday season. Picture creamy white chocolate mingling with rich, bittersweet chocolate, all topped off with a sprinkle of crushed candy canes. It’s festive, fun, and surprisingly easy to make! Creating this delightful treat in your kitchen fills the air with the sweet scent of chocolate and peppermint—sort of like a cozy hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday party, wrapping it as a gift, or simply indulging yourself, it’s perfect for sharing. Gather your ingredients, and let’s make some tasty Peppermint Bark together!
Why This Recipe Works
Peppermint Bark is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that seamlessly come together. The combination of creamy white chocolate and rich bittersweet chocolate creates a harmonious balance. Plus, the crunchy, crushed candy canes add a festive touch. Melting the chocolate in intervals ensures that it retains its glossy finish. This way, every piece is visually appealing and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Peppermint Bark
This Peppermint Bark recipe is not just easy to make; it is incredibly versatile! Whether you’re snacking at home, decorating a holiday table, or preparing gifts for loved ones, this treat checks all the boxes. The refreshing flavor of peppermint signals the holidays, creating a sense of nostalgia while also offering a delightful twist to this seasonal classic.
Ingredients
- 3 (4-oz) white chocolate bars, coarsely chopped and divided
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1½ tsp vegetable oil, divided
- ¾ tsp peppermint extract, divided
- 3 regular-size candy canes, crushed
How to Make Peppermint Bark
Prepare the Pan for Peppermint Bark
Start by lining an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper. This simple step will prevent the bark from sticking and make removal easier later.
Melt the White Chocolate Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 2 chopped white chocolate bars and ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil. Melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each increment, until completely smooth. Once melted, mix in ½ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Spread the melted white chocolate evenly in the bottom of your prepared pan. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes to let it set.
Create the Bittersweet Chocolate Layer
In another bowl, combine the bittersweet chocolate with ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil. Again, melt using the same 30-second interval method until smooth. After melting, stir in ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Spread this layer over the chilled white chocolate and refrigerate for another 10 minutes to allow it to firm up.
Finish with the Remaining White Chocolate
Take the remaining chopped white chocolate and combine it with the last ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil in a bowl. Melt until smooth, and mix in the remaining ¼ teaspoon of peppermint extract. Spread this layer on top of the bittersweet chocolate, ensuring an even coating. Finally, sprinkle crushed candy canes generously over the top.
Set and Break the Bark
Refrigerate the completed bark for about an hour, allowing it to fully set. Once set, break or cut into squares as desired. It’s that simple!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve peppermint bark on a decorative platter or in holiday-themed tins for gifting.
- Pair it with a hot chocolate bar for the perfect winter night in.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the chocolate doesn’t overheat in the microwave; overheating can lead to a grainy texture.
- Before layering each chocolate, test the consistency by running a spatula through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready for the next layer.
Variations
- Add nuts, like chopped almonds or pecans, for an extra crunch, or drizzle colored chocolate for a festive touch.
- Experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or vanilla, to create unique combinations.
Storage Tips
- Store peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- Properly stored, it can last for about 2 weeks—great for holiday snacking.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will alter the flavor and sweetness slightly.
2. How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Avoid getting any water into the chocolate while melting, as moisture is the enemy of chocolate.
3. Can I make peppermint bark ahead of time?
Certainly! It can be made a week in advance and stored in an airtight container.
4. What can I do with leftover chocolate?
Leftover melted chocolate can be poured into molds or used for drizzling over other treats.
5. Is peppermint extract optional?
While optional, peppermint extract gives this bark its signature flavor, so use it if you can!
Savor the warmth of the holiday season with this simple and scrumptious Peppermint Bark. Each bite brings a delightful crunch and a burst of minty flavor, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed during festive gatherings or wrapped as gifts, this treat is sure to spread joy and holiday spirit.
Print
Peppermint Bark
This Peppermint Bark is a festive delight combining creamy white chocolate and bittersweet chocolate, topped with crunchy candy canes. Perfect for sharing during the holiday season!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 (4-oz) white chocolate bars, coarsely chopped and divided
- 6 oz bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
- 1½ tsp vegetable oil, divided
- ¾ tsp peppermint extract, divided
- 3 regular-size candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper.
- Melt 2 chopped white chocolate bars with ½ tsp vegetable oil until smooth, mix in ½ tsp peppermint extract, and spread in the pan. Refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Melt bittersweet chocolate with ½ tsp vegetable oil, stir in ¼ tsp peppermint extract, spread over chilled white chocolate, and refrigerate for 10 minutes.
- Melt remaining chopped white chocolate with last ½ tsp vegetable oil, mix in remaining ¼ tsp peppermint extract, spread on bittersweet chocolate, and top with crushed candy canes.
- Refrigerate for about an hour to set, then break into squares.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Ensure chocolate does not overheat to avoid grainy texture.
Store peppermint bark in an airtight container for 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
