Chocolate Peppermint Bark (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Chocolate peppermint bark is a beloved holiday treat that brings together the rich, velvety texture of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. Traditionally made during the winter months, this delightful confection has roots in the early 19th century when chocolate became more accessible to the masses. The combination of chocolate and peppermint is not only festive but also evokes the spirit of the season, making it a favorite among families and friends alike.
Making chocolate peppermint bark is a straightforward process that requires minimal ingredients and equipment. You’ll need just two types of chocolate—dark and white—along with crushed peppermint candies to give it that signature holiday flair. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; you can whip it up in under an hour, and the results are nothing short of spectacular. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen, as they can help with the crushing of the peppermint candies. Just be careful; we don’t want any peppermint casualties!
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, feel free to get creative. Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty twist, or experiment with different types of chocolate. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this treat so appealing. Whether you’re packaging it up as gifts for friends or simply indulging yourself, chocolate peppermint bark is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Just remember, if you eat too much, you might start to feel like a candy cane yourself!
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to make a batch of this delightful chocolate peppermint bark. It’s perfect for holiday parties, cozy nights in, or as a sweet surprise for someone special. With its beautiful layers and festive colors, it’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration of the season. And who doesn’t love a little chocolate and peppermint in their life?
Ingredients
- 12 oz dark chocolate chips
- 12 oz white chocolate chips
- 1 cup peppermint candies
Instructions
- Begin by gathering your equipment: a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, a microwave-safe bowl, and a heatproof spatula. This setup will make your chocolate melting and spreading much easier.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 12 ounces of dark chocolate chips. Microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat this process until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, which should take about 1-2 minutes total.
- Once melted, pour the dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a heatproof spatula to spread it evenly into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. This layer will form the base of your bark.
- Let the dark chocolate cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes. You want it to firm up slightly but not completely harden, as this will help the white chocolate layer adhere better.
- While the dark chocolate is cooling, crush 1 cup of peppermint candies. You can place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. This will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your bark.
- Next, melt the white chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl using the same method as before. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until completely melted and smooth.
- Once the dark chocolate has cooled slightly, pour the melted white chocolate over the dark layer. Use the spatula to gently spread it evenly, ensuring it covers the dark chocolate completely.
- Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the white chocolate layer. Press them down gently with your spatula to ensure they stick.
- Refrigerate the baking sheet for about 30 minutes, or until the bark is completely set. You’ll know it’s ready when it feels firm to the touch.
- Once set, remove the bark from the refrigerator and break it into pieces. You can use your hands or a sharp knife for this, depending on how rustic you want your pieces to look.
- Store the chocolate peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it fresh longer, you can refrigerate it.
- Enjoy your homemade chocolate peppermint bark as a festive treat or gift it to friends and family. Just be prepared for them to ask for the recipe!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 200
- Carbs g: 25
- Protein g: 2
- Fat g: 10
- Sugar g: 20
