Peppermint Bark
Highlighted under: Treats & Confections
Indulge in the festive flavors of our delightful Peppermint Bark, perfect for holiday gatherings and gift-giving.
Peppermint Bark is a classic holiday treat that combines rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint flavor. It's easy to make and a perfect addition to your festive dessert table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously rich chocolate paired with refreshing peppermint.
- Simple to make with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for holiday gifts or as a sweet treat at home.
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Peppermint Bark is a quintessential holiday treat that brings together the rich flavors of chocolate and the invigorating taste of peppermint. This delightful combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a festive touch to your gatherings. Whether you're hosting a holiday party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this treat is sure to elevate the mood and impress your guests.
Making Peppermint Bark is not only delicious but also a fun activity to do with family and friends. The process of melting, mixing, and layering the chocolates allows for creativity and personalization. You can even involve children in the kitchen, teaching them the joy of baking and the magic of holiday treats. Plus, the vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing, making it a great addition to your holiday dessert table.
Gift-Giving Made Easy
One of the best aspects of Peppermint Bark is its versatility as a gift. It’s easy to make in large batches, and you can package it beautifully in festive boxes or jars. This homemade treat is a thoughtful gift that shows you care, making it a perfect choice for neighbors, teachers, or friends. Add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a festive ribbon to enhance the presentation.
Moreover, creating Peppermint Bark as gifts allows you to enjoy a fun and rewarding experience during the busy holiday season. You can experiment with different flavors or toppings, such as adding nuts or drizzling caramel over the bark for an extra indulgent twist. Your recipients will appreciate the effort you put into crafting a delicious, homemade gift that they can savor and enjoy.
Storing and Serving Peppermint Bark
Once your Peppermint Bark is ready and set, proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you prefer to keep it for longer, you can refrigerate it, though it may lose some of its texture. Always ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent moisture from compromising the bark's delightful crunch.
When serving, consider breaking the bark into different shapes or sizes to create an appealing presentation. Pair it with hot cocoa or a warm cup of tea for a comforting treat during chilly evenings. Peppermint Bark also works wonderfully as a topping for ice cream or blended into milkshakes for a festive dessert twist. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
For the Peppermint Bark
- 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 12 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Instructions
Melt the Dark Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Spread the Dark Chocolate
Pour the melted dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Let it cool until set.
Melt the White Chocolate
In another bowl, melt the white chocolate in the same way as the dark chocolate. Stir in the peppermint extract.
Spread the White Chocolate
Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Spread evenly.
Add Crushed Peppermint
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate while it's still wet. Press down gently to adhere.
Cool and Cut
Allow the bark to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, break into pieces or cut into squares.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
FAQs about Peppermint Bark
What kind of chocolate works best for Peppermint Bark? While dark and white chocolate are traditional choices, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even flavored chocolates to suit your taste. Just ensure that the chocolates you choose have a good melting quality for the best results.
Can I store Peppermint Bark in the freezer? Yes, you can freeze Peppermint Bark for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it, let it come to room temperature before breaking it apart.
Variations to Try
For a unique twist on the classic recipe, consider incorporating different flavors of extract, such as vanilla or almond. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the white chocolate layer for a delightful sweet-and-salty combination. Another fun option is to mix in crushed cookies or nuts for added texture and flavor.
If you're feeling adventurous, try layering different types of chocolate—like a layer of milk chocolate under the dark chocolate—to create a beautiful striped effect. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also offers a delicious blend of flavors that can please any chocolate lover.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will change the flavor profile and sweetness.
→ How long does peppermint bark last?
Peppermint bark can last up to two weeks when stored properly in an airtight container.
→ Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or other candy pieces for variation.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the chocolate and toppings used are gluten-free.
Peppermint Bark
Indulge in the festive flavors of our delightful Peppermint Bark, perfect for holiday gatherings and gift-giving.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Treats & Confections
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 pieces
What You'll Need
For the Peppermint Bark
- 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 12 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
How-To Steps
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Pour the melted dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Let it cool until set.
In another bowl, melt the white chocolate in the same way as the dark chocolate. Stir in the peppermint extract.
Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Spread evenly.
Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate while it's still wet. Press down gently to adhere.
Allow the bark to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once set, break into pieces or cut into squares.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 15mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 2g