Ultimate Homemade Peppermint Bark

Looking for the easiest peppermint bark recipe for Christmas? This homemade candy is a festive delight! Quick prep, impressive results. Get the recipe now! ... Quick & Easy
Okay, right then! Let's dive into this peppermint bark recipe lark, shall we? It's nearly Christmas, and frankly, what's more festive than layers of chocolatey goodness, eh? It's the perfect thing, even if you're a bit rubbish at baking!
Oh My Gosh, Peppermint Bark!
Ever find yourself staring longingly at those fancy christmas bark recipes in the shops? honestly, you can make better stuff at home.
This peppermint bark recipe is easy-peasy and tastes like a million quid, well, nearly. it's got that lovely balance of dark chocolate bitterness and that super sweet peppermint kick.
A Cracking Christmas Classic
This peppermint dessert , or better yet, peppermint christmas treat, isn't some modern invention. it's a twist on old-fashioned fudge.
Think of it as a posh, chocolatey version! this bark recipe takes about 2 hours max. that's enough time to watch an episode of bake off! it makes enough for a crowd, about 24 pieces.
Perfect for sharing, if you're feeling generous!
Why This Christmas Candy Recipes Shines
Forget those "new year, new you" resolutions. this peppermint bark is pure joy. honestly, the peppermint oil will give you that fresh peppermint dessert taste that is going to make you wish it was christmas all year round!.
It’s perfect for nibbling while wrapping presents, or just curled up with a good book. what makes this recipe special? it’s the simple joy of creating something delicious and sharing it with the people you love! a very special christmas baking recipe !
Ready to make some candy recipes homemade ? Right, let's get to the ingredients!
Right, let's dive straight into the heart of our peppermint bark recipe ! honestly, the ingredients are so simple, even a total beginner can nail this.
Plus, knowing what to look for when you're shopping makes all the difference. we're not aiming for ordinary here, we're talking christmas bark recipes that scream festive cheer!
Let's Talk Ingredients, Shall We?
Main Players: Chocolate & Peppermint
Okay, so here's the lowdown:
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 12 ounces (340g) . go for a decent brand here, alright? you want something with a cocoa percentage around 60-70% .
That richness is what makes the dark chocolate layer sing! you want good quality for your christmas baking recipes , yeah?
White chocolate chips: 12 ounces (340g) . this is crucial . use a proper baking white chocolate, not those cheapy ones that taste like wax.
Trust me on this. look for something with actual cocoa butter in the ingredients.
Vegetable shortening (optional): 1 teaspoon for each chocolate layer. now, some folks swear by this for a smoother melt. i find it helps, especially with cheaper chocolate.
If you're using top-notch stuff, you can probably skip it.
Peppermint Extract: 1/2 teaspoon . Don't go overboard, or it'll taste like mouthwash! A little goes a long way.
Peppermint Candies: 1/2 cup , crushed. About 10-12 regular candy canes should do the trick. Smash 'em up good!
Seasoning Notes: It's All About That Peppermint Christmas
Here's where you can get a bit fancy, you know?
Spice combination: peppermint extract is the star, but you could add a tiny pinch of sea salt to the white chocolate.
It really brings out the sweetness and adds a bit of oomph .
Flavor Enhancers: Honestly, good quality chocolate does most of the work. But a dash of vanilla extract in the white chocolate can add a subtle depth.
Quick Swaps: No peppermint extract? A few drops of peppermint oil will work, but very carefully. And if you’re looking for other Christmas Candy Recipes , well this recipe is only the beginning!
Ultimate Homemade Peppermint Bark Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Kit Essentials: No Fancy Pants Needed
Alright, you don't need to break the bank on equipment for this Bark Recipe . Keep it simple, yeah?
Baking Sheet: Aim for around 9x13 inches . If you don't have one that size, just adjust the amount of chocolate slightly.
Parchment Paper: This is a must ! Makes life so much easier when it comes to removing the bark. Silicone mats also work.
Double Boiler (or Microwave-Safe Bowls): For melting the chocolate. A double boiler is best for even heat, but microwave works in a pinch, just do 30-second intervals !
Rubber Spatula: For stirring and spreading. A good, flexible one is your best friend.
Rolling Pin (or Food Processor): For crushing those candy canes. I prefer a rolling pin, more therapeutic, you know?
Offset Spatula (Optional): For spreading the chocolate super smooth. But honestly, a regular spatula works just fine.
So, there you have it! The ingredient and equipment rundown for our peppermint bark recipe . I hope this inspires you to try some fun Peppermint Dessert recipes this Christmas! Don't forget about Xmas Cookies , too! This Candy Recipes Homemade is the perfect addition to your holiday sweets and will make you the star of the party!
Alright, let's dive into making some seriously addictive peppermint bark! honestly, this christmas candy recipes is practically mandatory at my place during the holidays.
It's easier than you think, and way better than anything you'll find at williams sonoma, promise! it is also part of the christmas baking recipes !

Prep Like a Pro
First things first: mise en place , darling. get everything lined up. 12 ounces of good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips (i'm a ghirardelli kinda gal), a teaspoon of vegetable shortening (optional, but it makes for a smoother melt), 12 ounces of white chocolate chips (again, splurge!), a half teaspoon of peppermint extract (careful, it's potent!), and about half a cup of crushed peppermint candies.
I usually just bash some candy canes in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin. it is also a candy recipes homemade
Now, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. trust me, this will save you a headache later. and remember: safety first! don't let any little ones near the hot chocolate.
We don't want any burnt fingers!
Let's Make Some Bark
- Melt the dark chocolate with the shortening (if using) in a double boiler or in the microwave at 30-second intervals . Stir like crazy in between!
- Pour the melted chocolate onto the baking sheet and spread it evenly. Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Pop it into the fridge for 15- 20 minutes until it's firm, but not rock solid.
- Melt the white chocolate, again with shortening and peppermint extract, using the same method.
- Pour the white chocolate over the chilled dark chocolate and spread.
- Immediately sprinkle on that crushed peppermint!
- Chill for at least 1- 2 hours or until completely firm.
- Break into pieces and try not to eat it all in one sitting. Good luck with that last part, though! This is the Peppermint Dessert you are looking for.
Insider Secrets
Honestly, the key to killer peppermint bark recipe lies in the quality of the chocolate. cheap chocolate tastes...well, cheap.
Splurge a little! and watch that white chocolate like a hawk when melting. it burns faster than you can say " xmas cookies "! also, don't add too much extract.
It is the best christmas bark recipes !
One common mistake? not chilling the dark chocolate enough. then the white chocolate melts it, and you end up with a swirly mess.
Still tasty, but not as pretty. want to get ahead? you can make the crushed peppermint a day or two in advance.
It also can work as a bark recipe !
So, that’s my spiel on making this classic peppermint christmas treat. honestly, it's therapeutic. plus, you get to eat chocolate.
Win-win! just think of the scent of peppermint and chocolate wafting through your kitchen – pure christmas magic. give it a go and let me know how it turns out!
Recipe Notes: Your Peppermint Bark Recipe Survival Guide
Right then, so you’re tackling this peppermint bark recipe ? ace! before you go full mary berry, let's run through a few bits and bobs to guarantee your christmas baking recipes go down a treat.
Honestly, even a simple christmas candy recipes can be a bit tricky, but these notes will help.
Plating Like a Pro: Christmas Presentation
Think beyond just piling it on a plate! grab a rustic wooden board. scatter the christmas bark recipes pieces artistically.
A dusting of icing sugar? pure snowy magic. serve with a piping hot peppermint dessert , or a glass of chilled mulled wine, perfect for those christmas baking recipes .
Storing Your Peppermint Bark Like Fort Knox
Right, so you've resisted scoffing the lot immediately? well done you. to keep that peppermint bark recipe tasting fab, store it in an airtight container.
In the fridge, it'll last a good week. feeling brave? freezing is an option. wrap it tightly, then defrost it slowly.
It's best consumed fresh, but freezing works in a pinch!
Remixing Your Bark: Let's Get Creative with Christmas Bark Recipes!
Fancy a twist on your peppermint bark recipe? Here are two quick ideas.
- Vegan Vibes: Swap the regular chocolate for a decent vegan alternative. Loads of good options out there now. Just be sure to find high-quality vegan chocolate.
- Seasonal Swaps: Ditch the peppermint altogether! (Gasp, I know!). Try using crushed gingerbread men or chopped dried cranberries. Suddenly, it’s autumn spice bark. Ooh-err!
Nutrition: The (Slightly) Sensible Bit
Okay, let's be real. it's chocolate and sugar. it's not exactly a health food. but hey, a small piece now and then won't hurt.
Good dark chocolate does have some antioxidants, you know. so basically, it's practically health food. ? this candy recipes homemade treat is an indulgence.
Enjoy it!
Honestly, crafting your peppermint bark recipe is really about having fun. experiment, don't be afraid to make mistakes. most importantly: embrace those xmas cookies and bark recipe .
So get in the kitchen and make some magic happen! you got this, mate. and if all else fails, there's always shop-bought.
(but don't tell anyone i said that!).
And hey, peppermint christmas just got a whole lot sweeter, thanks to your awesome peppermint bark recipes . Go on, give those Christmas Baking Recipes a go!

Frequently Asked Questions
My white chocolate seized up! What did I do wrong with this peppermint bark recipe?
Ah, the dreaded seized chocolate! White chocolate is notoriously temperamental. It usually seizes because it got too hot or a tiny bit of water got into the mix. Make sure you're melting it gently over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts, and that your bowl and spatula are completely dry. A little vegetable shortening can help smooth it out if it's slightly seized, but prevention is key!
Can I make peppermint bark ahead of time, and how should I store it?
Absolutely! Peppermint bark is a fantastic make-ahead treat, perfect for tackling that holiday baking list. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for up to two weeks. Just be sure to layer it between sheets of parchment paper to prevent the pieces from sticking together – nobody wants a bark-related sticky situation, like a Mr. Bean sketch gone wrong!
How can I crush my peppermint candies without making a huge mess?
The best way to crush those candy canes without turning your kitchen into a peppermint snowstorm is to place them in a heavy-duty zip-top bag. Then, use a rolling pin to bash them into the desired size pieces. Alternatively, a few pulses in a food processor will do the trick, but be careful not to over-process them into dust. Think "crushed" not "pulverized," yeah?
I'm looking for a peppermint bark recipe that's a bit different. What variations can I try?
Fancy a twist on the classic? Try adding a pinch of flaky sea salt to the top for a sweet and salty kick, a bit like salted caramel. For a richer, more intense flavor, use dark chocolate for both layers and add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dark chocolate while melting. Or, for a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dark chocolate!
Can I use chocolate melts/candy melts instead of real chocolate for this peppermint bark recipe?
While you can use chocolate melts or candy melts, the quality and flavor won't be quite as good as using real chocolate, think of it like comparing a proper Sunday roast to a microwave meal - both edible, but only one is really worth it! Real chocolate has a richer, smoother texture and a more complex flavor. If you do use candy melts, follow the package instructions carefully to avoid burning them.