Description
Homemade Peppermint Bark delights holiday guests with its festive chocolate layers and crushed candy cane topping. Crisp peppermint pieces and rich chocolate create a simple yet irresistible seasonal treat you’ll enjoy sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 200 g (7 oz) white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp peppermint extract (optional)
- ½ cup (75 g) crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat, ensuring complete surface coverage for easy chocolate removal.
- Dark Chocolate Base: Melt dark chocolate using a double boiler or microwave, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, glossy consistency. Blend in peppermint extract, then spread evenly across the prepared baking sheet.
- Initial Setting: Refrigerate the dark chocolate layer for 20 minutes until firm and stable, creating a solid foundation for the white chocolate topping.
- White Chocolate Layer: Melt white chocolate with gentle heat, stirring continuously. Incorporate remaining peppermint extract and pour carefully over the chilled dark chocolate base.
- Garnishing: Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint candies across the surface, pressing lightly to ensure they stick to the chocolate.
- Final Chilling: Return the bark to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing it to solidify completely.
- Serving: Break the chilled bark into irregular, rustic pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for up to two weeks.
Notes
Prevent Chocolate Burning: Use low, steady heat when melting chocolate to avoid scorching, which can create a bitter taste and grainy texture.
Temperature Control: Allow melted chocolate to cool slightly before spreading to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
Candy Crushing Technique: Place peppermint candies in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush with a rolling pin for uniform, fine pieces that distribute evenly.
Storage Smartness: Layer parchment paper between bark pieces when storing to prevent sticking and maintain the chocolate’s pristine appearance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 17
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg