Super Easy Peppermint Bark
Every holiday season, I find myself craving something sweet and festive, and that’s when I turn to my beloved Super Easy Peppermint Bark. It’s not just a treat; it’s a delightful reminder of cozy evenings spent with family, exchanging stories and laughter, all while indulging in this chocolatey goodness. The best part? You only need three simple ingredients! It’s truly a no-fuss recipe that brings joy, and trust me, the combination of rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint is simply irresistible. I remember the first time I made it; my kids couldn’t get enough! They love helping to crush the candy canes, and I cherish those moments in the kitchen. This easy dessert has become a tradition in our home, and I know it will be in yours too.
Recipe Snapshot
25 mins
5 mins
20 mins
Medium
150 kcal
2g g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
7g g
Large Pot, Wooden Spoon
Why Try This Super Easy Peppermint Bark
Simple and Quick
One of the best things about Super Easy Peppermint Bark is how simple it is to make. With just three ingredients, you can whip up this delightful treat in no time. It’s perfect for those last-minute dessert needs or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Festive Flavors
The combination of creamy dark chocolate, rich white chocolate, and crunchy peppermint creates a flavor explosion that’s perfect for the holidays. Each bite is a celebration of festive flavors, and it brings a cozy warmth to any occasion.
A Fun Activity
Making this bark is not only delicious but also a fun activity to do with kids or friends. Crushing the candy canes and layering the chocolates is a creative process that everyone can enjoy. It’s a great way to engage with loved ones and make lasting memories in the kitchen.
Perfect for Gifting
If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for friends, family, or coworkers, Super Easy Peppermint Bark makes a delightful present. Simply package it in a decorative box or jar, and you’ve got a heartfelt gift that’s sure to be appreciated. Who wouldn’t love a sweet treat during the holiday season?
Versatile Treat
This recipe can be easily adjusted to fit your taste. If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can swap in your favorite flavorings or toppings, making it a versatile dessert that can suit any palate.
Elegant Presentation
The contrasting colors of the dark and white chocolate, sprinkled with vibrant red candy cane bits, create an elegant presentation. It’s a treat that looks as good as it tastes, making it a standout addition to any holiday dessert table.
Super Easy Peppermint Bark Shopping List
When it comes to making Super Easy Peppermint Bark, the beauty lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect chocolatey treat. You’ll find that the combination of these ingredients not only works beautifully together but also brings out the best flavors. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:
- 12 oz dark chocolate morsels: The rich, smooth base that holds everything together.
- 12 oz white chocolate morsels: Adds a creamy sweetness that balances the dark chocolate.
- 6 candy canes, crushed, divided: Provides that classic peppermint flavor and festive crunch.
Preparation Steps for Super Easy Peppermint Bark
Making Super Easy Peppermint Bark is as enjoyable as it is delicious. This straightforward recipe allows anyone to create a festive treat with minimal hassle. Let’s dive into the steps to create this chocolatey delight!
- Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the bark from sticking, making it easier to remove later.
- Melt the dark chocolate morsels over a double boiler. To do this, bring a small pot filled with 1 to 2 inches of water to a gentle simmer. Place a metal or glass bowl over the pot, ensuring it fits snugly without touching the water. Add the dark chocolate morsels to the bowl and stir frequently. Keep an eye on it until the chocolate melts completely and becomes smooth and glossy in texture.
- Once melted, pour the dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, aiming for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. After smoothing it out, place the baking sheet in the fridge to let the chocolate harden, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
- While the dark chocolate is hardening, clean out the mixing bowl and repeat the melting process with the white chocolate morsels. Stir until the white chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Once the white chocolate is ready, add 3 of the crushed candy canes into the bowl and stir well to combine. This will infuse the white chocolate with that delightful peppermint flavor.
- Remove the hardened dark chocolate from the fridge and carefully pour the white chocolate mixture over it. Quickly use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, covering the dark chocolate completely.
- Before the white chocolate sets, sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes generously across the top. This adds a lovely crunch and a pop of color that enhances the visual appeal.
- Return the baking sheet to the fridge and let the entire bark harden again, which should take another 30 minutes. You’ll want to ensure it’s fully set before cutting.
- Once the bark is firm, carefully lift the edges of the parchment paper to remove the bark from the baking sheet. Place it on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bark into small, bite-sized pieces. The sharp knife will help you get clean cuts, perfect for sharing or gifting.
- Store the cut bark in a sealed container in a cool, dry place or in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to two weeks, but I doubt it will last that long!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use Quality Chocolate: The taste of your Super Easy Peppermint Bark heavily depends on the quality of the chocolate used. Choose high-quality dark and white chocolate for the best results.
- Crush Candy Canes with Care: To crush candy canes, place them in a zip-lock bag and hit them gently with a rolling pin. This method helps avoid a fine powder and retains crunchy bits.
- Stirring is Key: When melting chocolate, stir frequently to ensure even melting and to prevent burning. The double boiler method is particularly effective for maintaining a gentle heat.
- Don’t Rush Cooling: Allowing the bark to cool completely before cutting is crucial. Rushing this step can lead to messy pieces that don’t hold their shape.
Making Adjustments
When it comes to Super Easy Peppermint Bark, there are countless ways to make it your own! Here are some tips to consider:
- Storage: Store your Peppermint Bark in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks, but it’s so delicious, it might not last that long!
- Freezing: Yes, you can freeze Super Easy Peppermint Bark! Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Pairing: This bark pairs wonderfully with hot drinks like cocoa or coffee, making it ideal for cozy winter evenings.
- Variations: Experiment with other flavors! Use dark chocolate with orange zest or try adding nuts for a different texture.
- Presentation: For a festive touch, package your bark in decorative holiday boxes to give as gifts. It’s a thoughtful and personal present!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Super Easy Peppermint Bark, there are numerous delightful ways to enjoy this festive treat. Here are some ideas:
- Holiday Parties: Serve the bark on a large platter at your holiday gatherings. Its festive colors will surely catch everyone’s eye!
- Gift Giving: Wrap pieces in cellophane bags tied with ribbons for a heartfelt gift. Perfect for friends, neighbors, or teachers.
- Movie Nights: Pair your Peppermint Bark with a cozy movie night at home. It complements hot cocoa or your favorite winter drink.
- Seasonal Dishes: Incorporate it into your holiday dessert table alongside cakes, cookies, and pies.
- After Dinner Treat: Place a few pieces on a small plate to serve after dinner. It’s a sweet way to end a festive meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
What makes Super Easy Peppermint Bark special is its simplicity and the joy it brings during the holiday season. It’s a treat that’s not just delicious but also a delightful way to celebrate with loved ones. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together and how much everyone will adore it. So, let’s spread some festive cheer with this delightful treat!
Super Easy Peppermint Bark
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Melt dark chocolate morsels over a double boiler. Bring a small pot with 1 to 2 inches of water to a slow boil. Place a metal or glass bowl over the pot of water, ensuring it fits on top without touching the water. Place the dark chocolate morsels inside the bowl and stir frequently until melted and smooth.
- Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and smooth it out to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Place in the fridge to harden.
- Clean out the bowl and melt the white chocolate morsels the same way.
- Once the white chocolate is smooth, add 3 crushed candy canes into the bowl and stir to combine.
- Pour over the hardened dark chocolate and quickly smooth out.
- Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes over the wet chocolate. Place in the fridge to harden again.
- After hardening, use a sharp knife to carefully cut into small pieces.
- Store in a sealed container.
