Sweet Chocolate Peppermint Bark Recipe for Holiday Magic

Festive holiday treats sparkle with this irresistible chocolate peppermint bark that combines rich cocoa and cool mint flavors.

Dark chocolate layers meld perfectly with smooth white chocolate for a delightful seasonal dessert.

Crisp peppermint candy adds a delightful crunch and vibrant pop of color to each delectable piece.

Elegant yet simple, this recipe brings winter magic right to your kitchen counter.

You can whip up this crowd-pleasing confection in minutes with just a few basic ingredients.

The combination of silky chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will adore.

Indulge in this sweet holiday classic that promises to become a cherished tradition at your seasonal gatherings.

Why Peppermint Bark Is A Holiday Staple

• Create a stunning dessert with minimal kitchen skills, making it perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers looking for a quick treat.
• Impress friends and family with a festive confection that combines rich dark chocolate, creamy white chocolate, and crunchy candy canes for a mouthwatering experience.
• Requires just a few simple ingredients and basic microwave technique, allowing you to whip up a gourmet-looking dessert without complex cooking methods or professional equipment.
• Ideal for holiday gatherings, gift-giving, or as a sweet indulgence that can be easily customized with different toppings and presented beautifully on any dessert table.

What You’ll Need To Make Peppermint Bark

• Dark Chocolate Chips: The rich and deep foundation that provides a robust chocolate flavor for the bark.
• White Chocolate Chips: A creamy and sweet counterpart that adds a smooth contrast to the dark chocolate layer.

• Coconut Oil, Flake Sea Salt: These ingredients help melt the chocolate smoothly and enhance the overall flavor profile of the bark.

• Candy Canes: Crushed peppermint candies that add a festive crunch and refreshing mint flavor to the chocolate bark.

• Parchment Paper: A non-stick surface that makes removing and breaking the bark easy and prevents sticking to the baking sheet.

How To Prepare Crisp, Minty Peppermint Bark

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage.

This simple trick will make removing the bark effortless and prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Create Dark Chocolate Base

Melt dark chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl.

• Dark chocolate chips
• Coconut oil

Microwave for one minute and stir thoroughly.

Continue microwaving in short 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each round until the mixture becomes silky smooth.

Watch carefully to prevent chocolate from burning.

Step 3: Spread First Chocolate Layer

Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.

Use a spatula to create an even layer approximately ¼-inch thick.

Don’t stress about perfection – rustic looks delicious!

Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until the layer sets completely.

Step 4: Prepare White Chocolate Topping

Melt white chocolate chips with remaining coconut oil using the same careful microwaving technique.

White chocolate burns easily, so use short bursts and stir frequently to maintain a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Add White Chocolate Layer

Once the dark chocolate layer has hardened, pour melted white chocolate over the surface.

Spread evenly to cover the entire dark chocolate base completely.

Step 6: Decorate with Festive Toppings

• Crushed candy canes
• Flake sea salt

Gently press toppings into the chocolate to ensure they stick perfectly.

Step 7: Chill and Break

Refrigerate the bark for at least one hour until completely firm.

Peel the bark from the parchment paper and break into irregular pieces.

The uneven shards create a rustic, homemade charm that makes this treat irresistible.

Tips To Keep Layers Clean And Snappy

• Microwave chocolate in short bursts, stirring between each interval to prevent scorching and ensure smooth, glossy texture.
• Let the bark chill completely before breaking into pieces, using the back of a spoon or a knife to help create more uniform shards.
• Sprinkle a pinch of flake sea salt to elevate the chocolate's richness and create a delightful sweet-salty contrast.
• Always use dry utensils and avoid water contact when melting chocolate, as moisture can cause it to become grainy and clump.
• Keep bark in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How To Store Peppermint Bark Properly

• Store chocolate peppermint bark in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper. Keep chilled for up to 2 weeks to maintain texture and prevent chocolate from melting.
• Wrap bark tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months without compromising flavor or quality.
• Keep bark in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Best consumed within 5-7 days at room temperature, ensuring crisp texture and optimal taste.
• Let frozen or refrigerated bark sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving, which can cause chocolate to become grainy or separate.

Treats That Complement Peppermint Bark

• Pair with Rich Red Wine: Uncork a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the deep dark chocolate's intensity, creating a luxurious flavor dance on your palate.
• Enhance with Peppermint Hot Cocoa: Brew a creamy hot cocoa spiked with peppermint extract, mirroring the bark's festive flavor profile and providing a warm, comforting companion.
• Match with Espresso Martini: Craft a sophisticated cocktail blending espresso, vodka, and a hint of peppermint liqueur, which cuts through the chocolate's sweetness while amplifying its rich undertones.
• Serve with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Scoop creamy vanilla bean ice cream alongside the bark, letting the cool, smooth texture contrast beautifully with the crisp, minty chocolate pieces.

Fun Additions For A Bark Flavor Twist

• Dairy-Free Delight: Swap traditional chocolate chips with dairy-free dark and white chocolate alternatives. Use coconut oil or vegan butter to maintain the creamy texture while keeping the recipe completely plant-based.
• Nut-Free Festive Bark: Replace candy canes with crushed peppermint candies or dried cranberries for those with nut allergies. Maintain the same layering technique and chocolate melting process.
• Low-Sugar Option: Use sugar-free dark and white chocolate chips for a diabetic-friendly version. Sprinkle with monk fruit sweetener or stevia-based peppermint pieces to keep the holiday flavor without added sugar.
• Gluten-Free Holiday Treat: Ensure all chocolate chips and candy canes are certified gluten-free. Double-check ingredient labels to prevent any cross-contamination, making this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

• What equipment do I need for this recipe?

You’ll need a microwave-safe bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper, spatula, and a way to crush candy canes like a rolling pin or food processor.

• Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can swap dark and white chocolate with milk chocolate or even mix different percentages of dark chocolate to suit your taste preferences.

• Why add coconut oil to the chocolate?

Coconut oil helps create a smoother, glossier chocolate that melts more evenly and prevents the chocolate from becoming too hard or brittle when it sets.

• How fine should I crush the candy canes?

Aim for a mix of small chunks and fine powder. This gives your bark interesting texture and ensures peppermint flavor in every bite. Crush them roughly using a rolling pin or pulse briefly in a food processor.

Chocolate Peppermint Bark Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Rich chocolate layers meld with cool peppermint bark, creating a festive holiday treat that whispers winter’s sweet magic. Crisp candy cane pieces and smooth chocolate combine for a delightful dessert you’ll savor with each delectable bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Base:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) dark chocolate chips 60%
• 4 teaspoons (20 milliliters) coconut oil

White Chocolate Layer:

• 16 ounces (454 grams) white chocolate chips
• 4 teaspoons (20 milliliters) coconut oil

Topping:

• 1/2 cup (60 grams) crushed candy canes
• Flake sea salt

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring easy removal of the chocolate bark later.
2. Combine dark chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one minute, stirring thoroughly to distribute heat evenly. Continue microwaving in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each, until chocolate becomes completely smooth and glossy.
3. Carefully pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to create an approximately ¼-inch thick even layer. Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes until the chocolate sets and hardens.
4. Repeat the melting process with white chocolate chips and remaining coconut oil, using shorter microwave intervals to prevent scorching. Stir meticulously between each heating cycle to ensure smooth consistency.
5. Once the dark chocolate layer has firmed, gently pour the melted white chocolate over the surface, spreading evenly to completely cover the dark chocolate base.
6. Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes and flake sea salt across the white chocolate surface while still warm and malleable. Lightly press toppings to ensure they adhere properly.
7. Refrigerate the bark for at least one hour to completely set. Once firm, remove from parchment paper and break into rustic, irregular pieces for serving.

Notes

• Chocolate Melting Magic Stir chocolate consistently to prevent burning and ensure smooth, glossy texture.
• Temperature Control Microwave chocolate in short bursts, stirring between intervals to maintain ideal melting consistency and prevent scorching.
• Surface Preparation Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean break of bark pieces, creating professional-looking results.
• Topping Techniques Press candy canes and sea salt gently into white chocolate layer to ensure maximum adherence and even distribution of flavors.
• Dietary Adaptations Swap traditional chocolate for dairy-free alternatives like vegan chocolate chips to make recipe allergen-friendly and suitable for plant-based diets.
• Storage Wisdom Store bark in airtight container between parchment layers in refrigerator for up to two weeks, maintaining crisp texture and preventing flavor absorption.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 200
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg