Classic Peppermint Bark

$Here are the ingredients you need for classic peppermint bark: - 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips - 12 oz white chocolate chips - 1 tsp peppermint extract - 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or crushed candy canes) - Pinch of sea salt (optional) This simple list makes it easy to gather what you need. Semi-sweet chocolate gives a rich flavor, while white chocolate adds sweetness. The peppermint extract brings fresh notes, perfect for the holidays. Crushed peppermint candies add crunch and a festive touch. If you love a sweet-salty mix, the sea salt will enhance the taste. Now you’re ready to create this delightful treat! {{ingredient_image_2}} First, grab a 9x9 inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some overhang on the sides. This helps you lift the bark out later. For the semi-sweet chocolate, put 12 oz of chocolate chips in a bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts. Stir after each time until it is smooth. Next, for the white chocolate, take another bowl. Add 12 oz of white chocolate chips. Repeat the same melting process. After it’s melted, mix in 1 tsp of peppermint extract. Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate into the lined dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Place the dish in the fridge for about 15 minutes to set. Once the semi-sweet layer is set, pour the white chocolate over it. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Now, sprinkle 1 cup of crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate. Press down gently so they stick. You can also add a pinch of sea salt if you like the flavor contrast. Put the dish back in the fridge. Chill for about 30 minutes until it is firm. Once set, gently lift the bark out using the overhanging parchment paper. Break it into pieces as you like. Enjoy your peppermint bark! To avoid burning chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat chocolate in 30-second bursts. Stir well after each burst. This ensures even melting without burning. If you prefer, use a double boiler. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the chocolate in a heat-safe bowl above the pot. Stir until smooth. This method gives you great control over heat. Try different types of chocolate for unique flavors. Dark chocolate adds richness, while milk chocolate offers sweetness. You can also mix chocolates. For a twist, add a splash of orange zest or a dash of cinnamon. These flavors pair well with peppermint. They create a special holiday treat that surprises your taste buds. Arrange peppermint bark on a festive platter. Use colorful plates to brighten up the display. You can stack the pieces or lay them flat. For extra flair, garnish with whole peppermint candies or fresh mint sprigs. This adds a pop of color and makes your bark look professional. Your guests will love both the taste and the look! Pro Tips Use Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your peppermint bark largely depends on the quality of the chocolate you use. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet and white chocolate chips for the best results. Cool Between Layers: Make sure to chill the semi-sweet chocolate layer completely before adding the white chocolate. This helps create distinct layers and prevents the chocolates from blending together. Crush Peppermints Finely: For a better presentation and texture, crush your peppermint candies into smaller pieces. This will ensure that each bite has a nice crunch and a burst of peppermint flavor. Storage Tips: Store your peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky. {{image_4}} You can use different types of chocolate for your bark. Dark chocolate adds a rich flavor. Milk chocolate gives a sweeter taste. Each option creates a unique treat. You can mix and match both for fun. Just remember, the melting method stays the same. Toppings can change the whole look and taste of peppermint bark. Besides crushed peppermint, try nuts like almonds or walnuts. Dried fruits like cranberries can add a chewy texture. For a fun twist, use crushed cookies instead. Oreos or ginger snaps pair well with chocolate. To make peppermint bark dairy-free, choose dairy-free chocolate. Many brands offer great options. For a sugar-free version, use sugar-free chocolate and candies. These swaps let everyone enjoy this treat, no matter their diet. Just make sure to check the labels for hidden sugars or dairy. To keep your peppermint bark fresh, store it in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature is below 70°F (21°C). Avoid direct sunlight and humidity, as they can affect the texture and taste. For storage containers, use an airtight container. This keeps the bark from drying out or absorbing moisture. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This method protects it from air and odors. Peppermint bark can last for about two weeks at room temperature. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a month. Watch for signs of spoilage. If the bark looks dull or has a white film, it may be stale. This happens when the chocolate fat separates. If it smells off, it’s best to discard it. Always trust your senses when checking for freshness. Peppermint bark is a sweet treat made of layers of chocolate. It usually has a bottom layer of semi-sweet chocolate. The top layer is white chocolate mixed with peppermint extract. It’s then sprinkled with crushed peppermint candies for a festive crunch. This treat is a holiday favorite, loved for its sweet and minty flavor. Making peppermint bark is quick! The prep time is about 15 minutes. You will need an extra 30 minutes for chilling. In total, it takes about 1 hour from start to finish. This makes it an easy recipe to whip up before holiday gatherings. Yes, you can make peppermint bark ahead of time! It stays fresh when stored properly. Make it a week in advance and store it in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy it stress-free during the busy holiday days. You can find peppermint bark at many places. Local candy shops often have it during the holidays. Grocery stores may also sell it in their seasonal sections. For online options, check retailers like Amazon or specialty chocolate shops. You learned how to make peppermint bark from scratch. We covered the ingredients, steps, and tips. You can choose different chocolates or toppings to fit your taste. Don’t forget proper storage to keep it fresh! Experimenting with flavors adds fun. Making this holiday treat is simple and rewarding. Now you can impress friends and family with your homemade peppermint bark. Enjoy your creation and share it with joy!$

Classic Peppermint Bark

A festive treat made with layers of semi-sweet and white chocolate, topped with crushed peppermint candies.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 24

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
12 oz white chocolate chips
1 tsp peppermint extract
1 cup crushed peppermint candies
a pinch sea salt (optional)

Instructions

Begin by preparing your workspace: line a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there is some overhang on the sides for easy removal later on.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Once the semi-sweet chocolate is melted, pour it into the prepared baking dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly across the bottom. Place the dish in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the chocolate to set properly.
While the first layer is chilling, take another microwave-safe bowl and add the white chocolate chips. Repeat the melting process using 30-second intervals, stirring after each one until smooth. Once melted, remove the bowl from the microwave and stir in the peppermint extract until combined.
When the semi-sweet chocolate layer has set, remove the dish from the refrigerator. Carefully pour the melted white chocolate over the top of the set semi-sweet chocolate, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface.
Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies generously over the white chocolate layer, pressing down lightly to ensure they stick.
For an added flavor dimension, if desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top of the bark. This contrast enhances the sweetness of the chocolates.
Return the entire baking dish to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the peppermint bark is fully set and firm to the touch.
Once set, grasp the overhanging parchment paper and gently lift the bark out of the dish. Use your hands or a sharp knife to break the bark into irregular pieces as preferred.

Notes

For an attractive holiday display, arrange the peppermint bark pieces on a festive platter. You can elevate the presentation by garnishing with whole peppermint candies or fresh mint sprigs for a pop of color and seasonal charm.

Keyword bark, chocolate, holiday, peppermint