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- 12 ounces white chocolate chips - 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (or finely crushed candy canes) - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional) - Pinch of sea salt (for garnish) Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for a great treat. I love using good quality white chocolate chips. They melt smooth and taste sweet. For the peppermint, you can use crushed candies or candy canes. Both options bring that fresh minty flavor. The peppermint extract adds a nice touch. It boosts the mint flavor in the bark. If you want to add some depth, dark chocolate chips work well. Drizzling them on top creates a lovely contrast. Don't forget the sea salt! Just a pinch on top brings out the sweetness. It makes every bite exciting. Enjoy prepping and gathering these simple ingredients; they create a festive treat! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. The paper helps keep the bark from sticking. Make sure the paper covers the whole surface. This step makes it easy to lift the bark later. For melting the white chocolate, use a microwave-safe bowl. Add the white chocolate chips to the bowl. Heat in the microwave in 30-second bursts. Stir the chocolate well after each burst. Keep heating until it melts and looks smooth. This process should take about 1 to 1.5 minutes. After melting the chocolate, stir in the peppermint extract. Mix it well to spread the minty flavor. Next, gently fold in the crushed peppermint candies. Save a few tablespoons of candies for later. Stir until the candies are spread evenly in the chocolate. Now, transfer this mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick. If you want, melt dark chocolate in the same way. Drizzle it over the white chocolate for an extra touch. Once you spread the chocolate, sprinkle the reserved crushed candies on top. Press them in gently. Now, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator. Chill for about 2 hours. This helps the chocolate set well. After the chocolate is firm, carefully remove it from the baking sheet. Break it into pieces of any size you like. You can make big chunks or small bites. For a fun twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top. This adds a nice contrast to the sweet flavor. To melt white chocolate well, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts. Try 30 seconds at a time. Stir it well between each heating. This helps the chocolate melt evenly. Watch it closely; it burns easily. Once melted, it should be smooth and shiny. If it seems thick, you can add a little coconut oil. This helps with the texture. You can boost the taste of your bark by adding extracts. Vanilla or almond extract work nicely. You can also try different toppings. Chopped nuts or dried fruit add a fun twist. For a zesty kick, try a hint of orange zest. Let your creativity flow. Each variation can make it unique. Presentation makes your bark look special. After breaking it into pieces, arrange it on a nice platter. Add some whole peppermint candies for color. A sprig of fresh mint adds freshness. You can even wrap it in clear bags for gifts. Small touches make your treat festive and fun! Pro Tips Use High-Quality Chocolate: The flavor of your peppermint bark largely depends on the quality of your chocolate. Opt for premium white chocolate chips for a creamier and richer taste. Crush Peppermint Candies Finely: For a more uniform texture and better distribution, crush the peppermint candies into smaller pieces. This will ensure each bite has a balanced flavor. Layer Your Flavors: To enhance the peppermint flavor, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract to the crushed candies before mixing them into the chocolate. Experiment with Different Chocolates: While white chocolate is traditional, feel free to mix in milk or dark chocolate for a unique twist on the classic peppermint bark. {{image_4}} You can mix up your bark by using milk or dark chocolate. Each type gives a new taste. Milk chocolate adds a creamy touch, while dark chocolate brings a rich flavor. If you want a twist, try a mix of white and dark chocolate. Just melt them separately, then layer them. Peppermint extract is classic, but you can use other flavors too. Almond extract adds a nice nutty taste. Vanilla extract gives a smooth, sweet note. For a spicy kick, try cinnamon or ginger. Just remember, start with a small amount and taste as you go. You can get creative with toppings! Nuts, like almonds or walnuts, add crunch. Sprinkles can make it look festive. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or cherries, add a chewy texture. Just sprinkle them on top after spreading your chocolate. Press them in lightly to help them stick. To keep your white chocolate peppermint bark fresh, store it in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Avoid storing it near strong-smelling foods, as chocolate absorbs odors easily. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. When stored at room temperature, the bark lasts about two weeks. If you refrigerate it, it can stay fresh for up to a month. Just remember, cold air can change its texture. So, let it sit at room temp before eating for the best taste. If you want to freeze your bark, wrap it in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To defrost, move it to the fridge overnight. Avoid microwaving it, as this can ruin the texture. Enjoy your bark once it's back to room temperature! If you need a substitute for white chocolate, consider using yogurt chips. They offer a similar sweetness. You can also use carob chips for a unique flavor. Each option changes the taste a bit, but they can work well. Remember, they may not melt the same way as white chocolate. Yes, you can make this recipe vegan! Look for dairy-free white chocolate chips. Many brands offer vegan options. Use coconut cream instead of dairy. You can also skip the chocolate drizzle or use dark chocolate chips with no dairy. This way, you keep the taste and stay vegan. Grainy chocolate can happen if it overheats or if water gets in. If your white chocolate is grainy, try these steps: Add a tiny bit of vegetable oil to the chocolate and stir well. This can help smooth it out. If it is too thick, reheat gently in short bursts, stirring often. You’ve learned how to make delicious peppermint bark with simple ingredients and steps. From melting white chocolate to adding crushed candies, each step makes this treat special. Remember to let it chill well for the best texture. Your options for flavors and toppings are endless, so feel free to get creative. Whether making it for yourself or sharing with others, this bark is sure to please. Enjoy your tasty creation, and share it with friends and family for extra joy!

White Chocolate Peppermint Bark

A festive treat combining creamy white chocolate and refreshing peppermint, perfect for the holidays.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
  • 0.5 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 0.25 cup dark chocolate chips
  • 1 pinch sea salt

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Baking Sheet: Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
  • Melt the White Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, add the white chocolate chips. Microwave them in 30-second intervals, stirring well in between each interval until melted.
  • Add Flavor: Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract thoroughly.
  • Fold in the Peppermint Candy: Gently add the crushed peppermint candies to the melted white chocolate mixture, reserving some for topping.
  • Spread on the Sheet: Transfer the mixture onto the lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
  • Drizzle Dark Chocolate (Optional): Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the white chocolate layer if desired.
  • Add Reserved Candy: Sprinkle the reserved crushed peppermint candies over the top and press them gently into the chocolate.
  • Chill and Set: Place the baking sheet into the refrigerator for about 2 hours until set.
  • Break into Pieces: Once solidified, remove from the baking sheet and break into desired sizes.
  • Garnish with Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate pieces just before serving.

Notes

For an elegant presentation, serve on a decorative platter with whole peppermint candies or fresh mint.
Keyword bark, chocolate, dessert, holiday, peppermint