Peppermint Bark Recipe
This Peppermint Bark Recipe is the ultimate festive treat for the holiday season. Rich chocolate layers and crunchy peppermint make each bite irresistible for parties or gift boxes.
Smooth dark chocolate meets creamy white chocolate, topped with a snowy sprinkle of candy cane bits. It’s simple, stunning, and guaranteed to bring holiday cheer in every bite.
What You Need for Peppermint Bark
- Semisweet chocolate – Forms the decadent base that balances the sweetness of the white layer.
- White chocolate – Luscious and creamy, it creates a beautiful contrast and smooth finish.
- Peppermint extract – Adds a refreshing burst of cool mint flavor that ties the chocolate layers together.
- Crushed candy canes – Give the bark its signature holiday crunch and a touch of sparkle.
How to Make This Peppermint Bark Recipe
Start by melting the semisweet chocolate until smooth, then spread it into a rectangle on parchment paper. Chill it briefly so it’s just set but still tacky.
Next, melt the white chocolate and stir in the peppermint extract. Gently spread it over the semisweet layer. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously over the top and chill until completely firm.
Let the bark come back to room temperature before slicing through the chocolate layers with a sharp knife for clean, beautiful pieces perfect for sharing.
Festive Tips & Sweet Twists
Use good-quality chocolate for the best flavor — the simpler the recipe, the more the ingredients shine. Don’t skip the partial chilling step; it helps the layers stick together beautifully.
For a fun twist, try drizzling extra dark chocolate on top for a marbled look, or mix crushed Oreos with the candy canes for added crunch. This bark also makes a thoughtful edible gift wrapped in holiday tins or cellophane bags.
Storing Your Holiday Peppermint Bark
Keep your peppermint bark fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If your kitchen runs warm, refrigerate it to prevent melting, but bring it back to room temp before serving for the best texture.
For longer storage, freeze the bark layers in parchment paper between each piece to keep them from sticking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and enjoy this festive treat any time the holiday cravings hit!
Peppermint Bark Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3/4 cup crushed candy canes
- 16 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 12 ounces semisweet chocolate chips or chopped semisweet chocolate
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring between each interval until smooth. Spread the melted chocolate onto parchment paper in a rectangle measuring approximately 9 by 13 inches. Refrigerate for 10 minutes, ensuring the chocolate sets around the edges but remains slightly soft in the center to help the layers adhere properly.
- Melt the white chocolate in a separate medium bowl using the same method, then incorporate the peppermint extract, stirring until fully combined and smooth. Pour the white chocolate evenly over the semisweet layer, smoothing with a spatula, then sprinkle generously with crushed candy canes. Return the bark to the refrigerator for about 20 minutes or until completely firm.
- Once fully set, remove from the refrigerator and allow to rest at room temperature for approximately 20 minutes. Using a straight-edged chef’s knife, cut directly through the bark to create pieces. Serve and enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container.
