Peppermint bark is incredibly simple to make! This festive treat features layers of smooth semi-sweet chocolate and creamy white chocolate, flavored with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy cane pieces for a delightful crunch.
Prepare the Pan: Line a 5x5-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Let the paper hang over the sides so you can lift the bark out easily when it’s done.
Melt the Semi-Sweet Chocolate: (use either method)Double Boiler Method: Chop the chocolate into small pieces and put it in a heatproof bowl with half the oil. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir until the chocolate is smooth and melted.Microwave Method: Put the chopped chocolate and half the oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 15-second bursts, stirring after each one, until smooth. Be careful not to burn the chocolate!
First Layer: Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate into the pan and spread it evenly. Put it in the fridge for about 10 minutes while you melt the white chocolate.
Melt the White Chocolate: Chop the white chocolate and mix it with the rest of the oil. Melt it using the same method you chose for the semi-sweet chocolate. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract.
Add the Top Layer: Pour the melted white chocolate over the semi-sweet chocolate layer. Spread it gently so the layers stay separate. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candy on top. To crush candy, put it in a bag and roll over it with a rolling pin.
Chill the Bark: Put the dish back in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the layers can set.
Finish and Enjoy: Once the bark is firm, lift it out of the pan using the parchment paper. Peel off the paper and break the bark into pieces with your hands or a knife.
Serve and Share: Your peppermint bark is ready to enjoy or give as a gift!
Notes
Melting Chocolate: Be patient when melting chocolate in the microwave. Heat it in short, 15-second bursts, stirring well after each time. Use a spoon or spatula to mix until it’s smooth and melted. Don’t rush—chocolate burns quickly if overheated!
Peppermint Extract: A little peppermint extract goes a long way. Start small—you can always add more if you want a stronger mint flavor. It’s easier to add than to fix if you overdo it!
Layering Tip: Let the first layer of chocolate set almost completely before adding the second. This helps keep the layers clean and separate.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your 5x5-inch dish with parchment paper, leaving extra over the sides. This makes it super easy to lift the bark out once it’s ready.