How to Make the Perfect Peppermint Bark
American · Easy · 20 min · 20 servings
This elegant two-layered peppermint bark with a dark chocolate base and creamy white chocolate top is the quintessential Christmas candy that everyone looks forward to every year. It makes a wonderful homemade gift when packaged in a festive tin or cellophane bag.
Why this recipe works
This Peppermint Bark recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 145 calories with 1g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 12 oz dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate
- 12 oz white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
- 0.5 tsp peppermint extract
- 8 whole candy canes crushed
- 1 tsp coconut oil
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Melt and Spread Dark Chocolate
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt dark chocolate chips with the coconut oil in a heatproof bowl set over barely simmering water, stirring until completely smooth. Pour onto the parchment and spread into an even thin layer.
Step 2: Chill the Base Layer
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes until the dark chocolate layer is completely firm and set. Do not rush this step as the top layer will mix with the base if it is not fully hardened.
Step 3: Add the White Chocolate Layer
Melt white chocolate chips in a clean heatproof bowl using the same double boiler method. Stir in the peppermint extract. Pour over the set dark chocolate layer and gently spread to cover evenly without disturbing the base.
Step 4: Top and Set
Immediately scatter the crushed candy canes all over the white chocolate surface and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Gently press the pieces in slightly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until fully set, then break into irregular pieces.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- dark chocolate chips → semi-sweet chocolate chips for a less intense flavor
- peppermint extract → vanilla extract for a non-peppermint bark version
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Getting any water into the melting chocolate which causes it to seize and become grainy and unusable
- Not allowing the dark chocolate base to fully set before adding the white chocolate layer which causes the two layers to blend together
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 145 calories, 1g protein, 18g carbs, 8g fat, 1g fiber.
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