Looking for a delicious treat to satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season? Look no further than this Easy Christmas Peppermint Bark recipe! With the perfect balance of creamy white chocolate and rich dark chocolate, topped with a refreshing hint of peppermint, this bark is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a festive dessert for a holiday party or a homemade gift for a loved one, this recipe is sure to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- Great flavors: The combination of white and dark chocolate with peppermint creates a flavor explosion that is irresistible.
- Quick prep time: With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe can be whipped up in no time.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch of this peppermint bark ahead of time and have a delicious treat ready for any occasion.
Ingredient Notes:
- White chocolate: Adds a creamy sweetness to the bark. Use high-quality chocolate for the best results.
- Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate: Provides a rich, deep chocolate flavor. Choose your preference based on sweetness.
- Vegetable oil or coconut oil: Helps to melt the chocolate smoothly and gives the bark a shiny finish.
- Peppermint extract: Adds a refreshing minty flavor to the bark.
- Candy canes: Crushed candy canes add a festive touch and a satisfying crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt half of the white chocolate with vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in half of the peppermint extract.
- Spread the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Melt the semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate with vegetable oil in a separate bowl.
- Stir in the remaining peppermint extract.
- Spread the melted dark chocolate over the white chocolate layer.
- Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Refrigerate until set, then break into pieces.
Helpful Tips:
- Use a sharp knife to break the candy canes for easy crushing.
- Store the peppermint bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Swap out the candy canes for crushed nuts or sprinkles for a different twist on this recipe.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Use a double boiler for melting the chocolate for a smoother consistency.
- Allow the bark to set completely before breaking it into pieces for a clean break.
- Experiment with different types of chocolate for a unique flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Easy Christmas Peppermint Bark alongside a cup of hot cocoa for the perfect holiday treat. It also makes a great addition to a dessert platter or gift basket.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
To store the peppermint bark, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate? Yes, feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite type of chocolate.
- How can I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting? Make sure to stir the chocolate frequently and use low heat to avoid overheating.
- Can I freeze the peppermint bark? Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months in an airtight container.
Conclusion:
This Easy Christmas Peppermint Bark is a festive and delicious treat that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dessert or a homemade gift, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and share your feedback with us! Happy baking!
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Easy Christmas Peppermint Bark
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Desserts
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Christmas Peppermint Bark recipe combines the sweetness of white and dark chocolate with a refreshing hint of peppermint, topped with crushed candy canes for a festive treat.
Ingredients
White Chocolate Layer:
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- 12 ounces (339g) white chocolate, coarsely chopped and divided*
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Dark Chocolate Layer:
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- 6 ounces (170g) semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped*
- 1/2 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
Topping:
- 2–3 regular-size candy canes (24–36g total), crushed
Instructions
- Melt White Chocolate Layer: In a heatproof bowl, melt 8 ounces of white chocolate with 1 teaspoon of oil in the microwave or using a double boiler. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Melt Dark Chocolate Layer: Melt the dark chocolate with 1/2 teaspoon of oil in a separate bowl. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract.
- Layering: Pour the white chocolate onto a lined baking sheet and spread evenly. Drizzle the dark chocolate over the white chocolate and use a toothpick to create swirls. Sprinkle crushed candy canes on top.
- Setting: Chill in the refrigerator until firm, then break into pieces to serve.
Notes
- You can customize this bark by adding nuts, dried fruits, or different flavored extracts.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 15 g
- Sodium: 15 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg
