Festive Homemade Peppermint Bark Recipe

Welcome to a Holiday Favorite

Picture this: twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and the unmistakable smell of peppermint wafting through your kitchen. Peppermint Bark is one of those treats that completely embodies the holiday spirit—it’s fun, festive, and oh-so-easy to make. It’s also a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re gifting it to neighbors or enjoying it with loved ones.

If you’ve never made this classic treat before, don’t worry! It’s simple but leaves room for creative flair, making it one of my favorite DIY holiday gifts. Ready to brighten your season? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, plus cooling time.
• Minimal Ingredients: Only four simple ingredients needed.
• Perfect for Gifting: These look beautiful wrapped up in cellophane bags or tucked into cookie tins.
• Customizable: Add your own touch with dark chocolate drizzles or extra candy decorations.

Ingredients Breakdown

• White Chocolate: You want a high-quality bar or chips for a smooth, creamy bark. Avoid candy melts—they don’t taste as good!
• Semi-Sweet or Dark Chocolate: This gives the bark its signature layered look and balances the sweetness of the white chocolate.
• Peppermint Extract: A little goes a long way. This adds that minty kick without overpowering the creamy chocolate.
• Candy Canes: Crushed into small bits, they bring crunch and festive detail to each bite.

Pro Tip: When crushing candy canes, put them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin. This keeps the mess contained and ensures you have both fine and chunky pieces for texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Workspace: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make removing the bark a breeze.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate Layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each round, until smooth. Stir in half a teaspoon of peppermint extract.
3. Spread and Chill: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Pop it into the fridge for 10 minutes to set.
4. Melt the White Chocolate: Repeat the melting process with the white chocolate, being careful not to overheat (white chocolate can scorch easily!). Stir in the remaining peppermint extract.
5. Layer and Sprinkle: Pour the melted white chocolate over the hardened dark chocolate layer. Before it sets, sprinkle the crushed candy canes evenly on top.
6. Let it Set: Place the sheet back in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, or until completely firm.
7. Break and Serve: Once the bark is set, lift it out of the tray and use your hands to break it into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• Temperature Matters: Make sure each chocolate layer has set before adding the next to ensure crisp, defined layers.
• Avoid Seizing: When melting chocolate, keep all your utensils and bowls completely dry. Even a drop of water can cause the chocolate to seize.
• Crush Candy Canes Gently: Small chunks are great for texture, but avoid powdering them entirely—they might dissolve into the chocolate.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Add Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Once the bark is set, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the top for a fancy touch.
• Swap for Mint Oreos: No candy canes? Crushed mint-flavored Oreos make an amazing alternative.
• Pair It Up: Serve Peppermint Bark alongside a steaming cup of hot cocoa for the coziest winter treat set-up.

FAQs

• Can I freeze Peppermint Bark? Yes! Wrap it tightly in wax paper and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• How do I store it? Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your climate.
• Can I skip the peppermint extract? Absolutely. The crushed candy canes still provide plenty of minty flavor.

There you have it—holiday joy in every bite! I can’t wait to see how your Peppermint Bark turns out. Be sure to tag your creations with #TheKitchensAid so I can share in your festive fun. Happy Holidays!