How to Make Peppermint Bark

Peppermint bark is a quintessential holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the refreshing taste of peppermint. This festive confection is a perfect gift for friends and family or a delightful addition to your holiday dessert table. Its layers of creamy white chocolate and rich dark chocolate, topped with crushed peppermint candies, make it both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty. The beauty of peppermint bark lies in its simplicity and the fact that it requires minimal ingredients while delivering maximum flavor. In this recipe, we will guide you through making easy peppermint bark that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Easy Peppermint Bark

• 12 ounces dark chocolate: Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich, deep flavor. You can use chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars.
• 12 ounces white chocolate: For a smooth and creamy contrast to the dark chocolate. Again, you can use chips or chopped bars.
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract: Adds a burst of refreshing peppermint flavor. Make sure to use extract, not peppermint oil, to avoid an overpowering taste.
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies: For topping. You can use candy canes or peppermint sticks, crushed into small pieces.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Helps to smooth out the chocolate and make it easier to spread.

How to Make Easy Peppermint Bark

1. Prepare Your Work Area Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the bark from sticking and make it easier to remove once it has set.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. You can melt it using a double boiler method or in the microwave. If using a double boiler, set the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl does not touch the water. Stir the chocolate occasionally until it’s completely melted and smooth. If using a microwave, heat the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until fully melted. Be cautious not to overheat the chocolate, as it can seize up and become unusable.
3. Spread the Dark Chocolate Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, approximately ¼-inch thick. Smooth out the surface to ensure a uniform layer. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dark chocolate has set but is still slightly soft to the touch.
4. Melt the White Chocolate While the dark chocolate is setting, melt the white chocolate using the same method as the dark chocolate. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract. This will infuse the white chocolate with a refreshing peppermint flavor that complements the dark chocolate.
5. Spread the White Chocolate Remove the baking sheet from the refrigerator. Carefully pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Use a spatula to spread the white chocolate evenly, covering the dark chocolate completely. If desired, you can swirl the white chocolate slightly with the dark chocolate to create a marbled effect.
6. Add Peppermint Candy Topping Before the white chocolate sets, sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the top. Gently press the candies into the chocolate to ensure they adhere well. This adds a festive touch and a delightful crunch to the bark.
7. Chill the Bark Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator and allow the peppermint bark to set completely, which should take about 30-45 minutes. The bark should be firm and easy to break into pieces.
8. Break and Serve Once set, remove the peppermint bark from the refrigerator and lift it off the parchment paper. Break it into irregular pieces using your hands or a knife. The bark can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

About the Main Ingredients

• Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate provides a rich and intense flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the white chocolate and the minty freshness of the peppermint. It also adds a nice contrast to the overall sweetness of the bark.
• White Chocolate: White chocolate is smooth and creamy, offering a sweet and subtle flavor that complements the dark chocolate. It also acts as a canvas for the peppermint flavor and provides a beautiful visual contrast.
• Peppermint Extract: Peppermint extract adds a burst of minty flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. It’s crucial for achieving that classic peppermint bark taste.
• Crushed Peppermint Candies: These not only enhance the peppermint flavor but also add a festive touch and a satisfying crunch to the bark. They can be easily crushed using a rolling pin or food processor.

Peppermint bark is a simple yet elegant treat that’s perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to indulge in a sweet and minty delight. Enjoy making and sharing this easy recipe with your loved ones!