This Easy Peppermint Bark is a holiday treat that combines rich, velvety chocolate with a refreshing burst of peppermint. In just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll layer smooth dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate, then sprinkle it with crushed candy canes for a festive crunch. The result? A decadent, melt-in-your-mouth delight that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
After a quick 3-hour chill, the bark sets into perfect, shatterable pieces that are ideal for gifting or sharing. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet, minty, and indulgent flavors, making it an irresistible addition to your holiday spread. Plus, it’s so simple, you’ll want to make it all season long!
What You’ll Need for Easy Peppermint Bark
- 8 oz (226 g) quality dark chocolate bars*, chopped into small pieces (use bars for best results, not chips)
- 8 oz (226 g) quality white chocolate bars*, chopped into small pieces (use bars for best results, not chips)
- 1 teaspoon shortening (like Crisco)
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (not “mint” extract for authentic flavor)
- ⅓ cup (76 g) crushed candy cane pieces, divided (reserve some for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8″ baking pan with wax paper and set aside.
- Melt the Dark Chocolate: Place the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Spread the Dark Chocolate: Pour the melted dark chocolate into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Set aside at room temperature (do not refrigerate) while you prepare the white chocolate layer.
- Melt the White Chocolate: Place the chopped white chocolate in another microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir well. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is completely melted.
- Add Peppermint Flavor: In a small microwave-safe dish, melt the shortening (this will only take a few seconds). Stir in the peppermint extract until combined. Add this mixture to the melted white chocolate and stir well.
- Fold in Candy Canes: Gently fold ¼ cup of the crushed candy cane pieces into the white chocolate mixture until evenly distributed.
- Layer the White Chocolate: Carefully spread the white chocolate mixture over the dark chocolate layer. Use a gentle touch to avoid mixing the layers if the dark chocolate hasn’t fully set.
- Add the Topping: Immediately sprinkle the remaining crushed candy cane pieces evenly over the white chocolate layer.
- Set at Room Temperature: Allow the peppermint bark to harden completely at room temperature. This will take several hours. Avoid refrigerating for the best texture.
- Cut or Break into Pieces: Once fully set, cut or break the bark into pieces and enjoy!
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
Serve your Easy Peppermint Bark as a festive holiday treat alongside a cup of hot cocoa or peppermint tea for a cozy, seasonal combo. It also makes a delightful addition to dessert platters, paired with cookies, brownies, or fudge. For a fun twist, crumble it over vanilla ice cream for a minty chocolate topping!
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Avoid refrigeration, as it can cause the chocolate to develop a dull finish or absorb odors. If you’re gifting it, wrap individual pieces in parchment paper and place them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade present.
Mix It Up: Recipe Variations
Customize your bark by swapping dark chocolate for milk chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist. For a nutty crunch, fold in chopped almonds or pistachios. You can also experiment with different extracts, like orange or almond, for a unique flavor profile.
Quick Tips for Success
To save time, use pre-chopped chocolate or chocolate chips, though bars tend to melt more smoothly. If you’re short on time, speed up the setting process by placing the bark in a cool, dry area (not the fridge!). And remember, *stirring well* between microwave intervals is key to avoiding burnt chocolate.
Common Questions Answered
Can I use mint extract instead of peppermint?
Stick with peppermint extract for that classic holiday flavor—mint extract can taste too medicinal.
What if my chocolate seizes?
Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or shortening and stir gently to restore smoothness.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan to ensure even layers.
Easy Peppermint Bark
Ingredients
- 8 oz quality dark chocolate bars*, chopped into small pieces
- 8 oz quality white chocolate bars*, chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon shortening like Crisco
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract not “mint” extract
- ⅓ cup crushed candy cane pieces divided
Instructions
- Line an 8×8″ baking pan with wax paper. Set aside.
- Place chopped dark chocolate in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds. Remove from microwave and stir very well. Return to microwave and heat for 15-second intervals (stirring well between each) until chocolate is completely melted.
- Spread melted dark chocolate evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Set aside (do not refrigerate) and prepare your white chocolate layer.
- Place your chopped white chocolate in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds. Remove from microwave and stir well. Return to microwave and heat for 15-second intervals (stirring well between each) until white chocolate is completely melted.
- Once white chocolate is melted, place teaspoon of shortening in a small microwave-safe dish and heat until melted (this will only take several seconds). Add peppermint extract and stir well.
- Add peppermint/shortening mixture to white chocolate and stir well. Add ¼ cup of crushed candy canes to the white chocolate and gently fold in until evenly distributed.
- Spread white chocolate evenly (and gently, in case chocolate has not completely set) over dark chocolate layer.
- Immediately sprinkle white chocolate layer with remaining candy cane pieces.
- Allow peppermint bark to harden completely at room temperature before cutting/breaking into pieces and enjoying. This will take several hours at room temperature. I do not recommend refrigerating.