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This white chocolate peppermint bark is a simple festive treat perfect for quick holiday gifting or brightening up a chilly evening. It combines creamy white chocolate with refreshing peppermint and a satisfying crunch from crushed candy canes to create a sweet and minty snack everyone will love.
I made this bark one December night when I realized I had no cookies for guests and it instantly became my go-to holiday treat to whip up in under 20 minutes every year.
Ingredients
- White chocolate chips: offer that rich creamy base choose high-quality chips for better melt and smoother texture
- Peppermint extract: brings a cool minty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet chocolate add carefully as it can be strong
- Crushed candy canes: add crunch and bright peppermint bursts for texture and festive color I like to use fresh candy canes for the best snap
- Sea salt: balances the sweetness with a slight savory touch opt for flaky sea salt if possible to get little bursts of flavor
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make it easy to lift the bark out later. This step sets you up for smooth cleanup and well-formed pieces.
- Melt The Chocolate:
- Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second bursts stirring in between until smooth and creamy. Using intervals prevents overheating which can cause clumping or burning.
- Add The Peppermint:
- Stir in the peppermint extract thoroughly so the flavor is evenly distributed, but be sure to add it gradually to avoid overpowering the white chocolate.
- Spread The Chocolate:
- Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly using a spatula or the back of a spoon until it is about half an inch thick. An even layer ensures uniform pieces later.
- Sprinkle Toppings:
- While the chocolate is still warm and soft, evenly sprinkle the crushed candy canes and a pinch of sea salt over the surface. The warmth helps the toppings stick well.
- Chill Until Firm:
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and allow the bark to chill for about 30 minutes until completely firm. Once hardened, break the bark into rustic pieces for serving or packaging.
I love the crunch and freshness the crushed candy canes add making each bite lively and bright. Every holiday season my family asks for this bark even before the cookies are out which makes it a memorable and easy tradition.
Storage Tips
Keep the peppermint bark in an airtight container in a cool place or in the fridge to maintain its crisp texture and prevent melting. It will stay fresh for about two weeks this way. Avoid warm or humid spots as white chocolate is sensitive to heat.
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap the white chocolate chips for good quality white chocolate bars chopped into chunks for a smoother melt. If peppermint is not your favorite try vanilla extract for a more subtle aromatic sweetness. For different festive colors try crushed red and green sugar crystals or dried cranberries instead of candy canes.
Serving Ideas
Serve this peppermint bark as a simple holiday dessert on a festive platter alongside hot cocoa or mulled wine. It also works well broken into pieces and sprinkled over ice cream or holiday cakes for added texture and flavor. Wrapping pieces in small clear bags tied with ribbon makes a thoughtful homemade gift.
This peppermint bark is a quick and festive treat that is easy to customize and sure to impress your holiday guests.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best for this treat?
Using high-quality white chocolate chips ensures a smooth melt and a creamy texture that complements the peppermint flavor well.
- → How do I melt the white chocolate without burning it?
Heat the white chocolate in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring after each, until completely smooth to avoid burning.
- → Can I substitute the peppermint extract with another flavor?
Yes, you can try alternatives like vanilla or almond extract, but peppermint is traditional for its refreshing contrast.
- → What’s the purpose of adding sea salt on top?
A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and intensifies the overall flavor by adding a subtle contrast.
- → How long should I chill the bark before breaking it into pieces?
Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is firm enough to break easily into pieces.