Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite holiday treat—Chocolate peppermint bark! There’s just something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint that instantly transports me to cozy winter nights. Every year, I make a batch (or two… or three!) to share with friends and family, and it’s always a hit. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress my friends at a holiday gathering, and I was so nervous! But when they took that first bite, their eyes lit up, and I knew I had nailed it. The best part? It’s so quick and easy to whip up, making it the perfect last-minute gift or festive dessert to enjoy. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy for all your holiday gatherings!
Ingredients List
- 12 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
- 12 oz white chocolate (chopped)
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies (plus extra for topping)
How to Prepare Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Making Chocolate peppermint bark is a delightful process that’s simpler than you might think! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making batch after batch. So, let’s dive into the steps together!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by melting the dark chocolate. You can do this using a double boiler or a microwave. If using the microwave, heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s smooth and glossy—about 1-2 minutes total.
- Once melted, pour the dark chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the sheet, making sure it’s about 1/4 inch thick. This is where you can get creative with the edges!
- Now, pop that baking sheet into the fridge and chill it for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is set. This is crucial, so don’t skip the chilling part!
- While the dark chocolate is chilling, melt the white chocolate in the same way you did with the dark chocolate. Stir in the peppermint extract once it’s melted for that refreshing flavor boost.
- Take the dark chocolate out of the fridge and pour the melted white chocolate on top. Use your spatula to spread it evenly, covering the dark layer completely.
- Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the white chocolate layer, pressing them down gently to make sure they stick.
- Finally, return the baking sheet to the fridge and chill again until fully set, which takes about 1 hour. Patience is key here, my friend!
- Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve. You’ll love the satisfying crack as you break it apart!
And there you have it! A festive treat that will wow everyone at your holiday gatherings. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information Section
As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so keep that in mind! Here’s a rough estimate for each piece of this delicious Chocolate peppermint bark:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
These numbers are just a guide, so feel free to adjust as you see fit! Enjoy making this festive treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly quick to make—perfect for those last-minute holiday cravings!
- Only a few simple ingredients, making it easy to whip up anytime.
- The combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply irresistible.
- It looks beautiful on any dessert table, adding a festive touch.
- Perfect for gifting or sharing with friends and family during the holidays.
- You can easily customize it with different toppings or flavors!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your Chocolate peppermint bark turns out perfectly every time! First off, when melting chocolate, make sure to use a gentle heat. If you go too fast, you risk burning it—yikes! I love using the double boiler method, but if you opt for the microwave, heat it in short bursts and stir often. It makes a world of difference!
If you want to switch things up, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-savory twist, or mix in some chopped nuts for added crunch! When it comes to storage, keep your bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks—though it rarely lasts that long in my house! Enjoy your holiday treat!
Serving Suggestions
Chocolate peppermint bark is such a versatile treat, and there are plenty of fun ways to serve it! For a delightful holiday presentation, try placing pieces of bark in a festive candy dish or on a decorative platter alongside some fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for a pop of color. You can also serve it with a steaming cup of hot cocoa—just imagine the cozy vibes! Another idea is to package individual pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for cute party favors. Your guests will love these thoughtful touches!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious Chocolate peppermint bark is super easy! Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature, and it’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you live in a warmer climate, you might want to pop it in the fridge to prevent it from getting too soft. Trust me, it’s best enjoyed at room temperature for that perfect snap!
As for reheating, you won’t need to do any of that—no need to worry! Just break off a piece and indulge in its chocolatey goodness anytime you crave a sweet treat. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While I love the classic dark and white chocolate combo, you can experiment with milk chocolate or even flavored chocolates for a unique twist. Just make sure to adjust your flavors accordingly!
How do I prevent the chocolate from blooming?
To avoid that unsightly white coating, ensure your chocolate is stored properly. Keep it in a cool, dry place and avoid temperature fluctuations. Also, make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping!
Can I add other toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. Crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even a drizzle of caramel can add a delightful touch to your Chocolate peppermint bark. The options are endless!
How long does it last?
When stored in an airtight container, your Chocolate peppermint bark can last up to two weeks. But trust me, it’ll disappear much faster than that!
Can I freeze the bark?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
Chocolate peppermint bark: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A festive treat made with chocolate and peppermint.
Ingredients
- 12 oz dark chocolate
- 12 oz white chocolate
- 1 tsp peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
Instructions
- Melt dark chocolate in a double boiler.
- Spread melted dark chocolate on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Chill until set, about 30 minutes.
- Melt white chocolate and stir in peppermint extract.
- Spread white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer.
- Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.
- Chill again until fully set, about 1 hour.
- Break into pieces and serve.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Use candy canes for a more festive look.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chocolate peppermint bark, holiday treat, dessert