White Chocolate Peppermint Bark

$- 12 oz white chocolate chips - 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract - 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for garnish) - 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional for drizzling) To make White Chocolate Peppermint Bark, you need just a few key ingredients. First, the white chocolate chips are the main star. They give the bark its sweet and creamy taste. Next, peppermint extract adds that fresh, minty flavor we all love during the holidays. You only need a little bit. Half a teaspoon is perfect to get the right taste without being too strong. The crushed candy canes bring a nice crunch and a festive look. You can use them in the bark and save some for a pretty garnish. Lastly, dark chocolate chips are optional. If you like, you can melt them and drizzle over the bark. This adds a nice contrast to the sweet white chocolate and mint. These ingredients are easy to find and make the perfect holiday treat. Happy cooking! Lining with Parchment Paper Start by lining a 9x9 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the edges. This helps you lift the bark out later. Choosing the Right Baking Dish A glass or metal baking dish works well. Just ensure it is flat and even. This helps the chocolate set nicely. Microwave Method Take a medium microwave-safe bowl and add the white chocolate chips. Heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir and repeat until melted. This usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes. Ensuring a Smooth Consistency Stir the chocolate well after each interval. You want a smooth, shiny mixture. If it is lumpy, it may not melt correctly. Adding Peppermint Extract Once melted, pour in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract. Stir well to mix it in completely. This gives the bark its fresh, minty flavor. Mixing in Crushed Candy Canes Take 1/2 cup of crushed candy canes and add them to the melted chocolate. Save some for later to sprinkle on top. Mix well so every bite has a hint of peppermint crunch. Smoothly Spreading the Mixture Pour the chocolate mixture into your lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Melting and Drizzling Dark Chocolate If you want to add dark chocolate, melt 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips in the microwave. Drizzle it over the white chocolate using a spoon for a pretty design. Time for Refrigeration Place the baking dish in the fridge for 1-2 hours. This allows the bark to harden fully. Techniques for Breaking into Pieces Once set, lift the bark out using the parchment paper. You can break it into pieces with your hands or cut it with a sharp knife. Enjoy your festive treat! - Choosing High-Quality White Chocolate Use real white chocolate for the best taste. Look for bars or chips with cocoa butter. Avoid cheap brands that use vegetable oil. Good chocolate melts well and tastes rich. - Alternatives for Peppermint Flavor If you want a twist, try using mint extract. You can also mix in some crushed mint candies. For a more subtle flavor, use less peppermint extract. - Ensuring Even Thickness Spread the melted chocolate evenly in the pan. Aim for about 1/4 inch thick. This helps it set nicely and makes it easy to break. - Avoiding Grainy Texture Stir the chocolate slowly when melting. If it gets too hot, it can become grainy. Stop microwaving if you see any lumps. Stirring helps create a smooth texture. - Creative Serving Ideas Arrange the bark pieces on a festive plate. You can also stack them in a jar for a fun look. Try adding a few whole candy canes for extra flair. - Gift Packaging Tips Wrap pieces in clear bags tied with ribbon. Add a tag with the recipe for a nice touch. Using a pretty box can also make your gift stand out. {{image_2}} You can add a nice crunch to your peppermint bark by using chopped nuts. I love using almonds or walnuts. They add both flavor and texture. Just mix them into the melted chocolate with the crushed candy canes. You can also try different flavor combinations. How about pairing the nuts with a hint of orange zest? It gives a fresh twist to the classic taste. You can even use flavored nuts, like candied pecans, for a unique touch. For a fun twist, swap out the crushed candy canes for other candies. Try using colorful M&M's or sprinkles. This makes the bark festive and eye-catching. You can even choose candy colors to match special occasions, like red and green for Christmas or pastels for Easter. Don't be afraid to get creative! You can layer different types of chocolate and candies to make a colorful treat. This way, each bite feels like a new surprise. If you want a vegan version of peppermint bark, look for dairy-free white chocolate. Many brands offer great options. Just check the ingredients to ensure they fit your needs. For the peppermint flavor, you can stick to peppermint extract. Just make sure it’s plant-based. This way, you ensure your bark is fully vegan and delicious. - Use airtight containers to keep the bark fresh. - Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. - White chocolate peppermint bark lasts up to two weeks. - Watch for signs like white spots or a bad smell. - You can freeze the bark for up to two months. - To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight before eating. White chocolate peppermint bark is a sweet treat made of white chocolate and peppermint. It features layers of melted white chocolate mixed with crushed candy canes. This bark is a festive dessert, perfect for the holidays. The combination of creamy white chocolate and crunchy candy canes gives it a delightful texture and flavor. Yes, you can make this bark ahead of time. I often prepare it a few days before a holiday. Just store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge to maintain freshness. This way, you can enjoy it without last-minute stress. To check if the chocolate is melted, look for a smooth texture. Stir the chocolate after each 30-second microwave interval. It should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes total. If you see any lumps, keep microwaving in short bursts. Avoid overheating, as it can ruin the chocolate. Yes, you can use other extracts to change the flavor. Almond extract or vanilla extract work well. Just use the same amount as peppermint extract. This allows you to customize your bark while still keeping it delicious. You can even mix flavors for a unique twist! You can now make tasty white chocolate peppermint bark with ease. This blog shared key ingredients, tips for the best texture, and fun variations. Remember to store your bark properly so it stays fresh. You can even freeze it for later! Enjoy making this sweet treat for yourself or to gift. I hope these steps inspire you to create your own delightful version at home. Happy baking!$

White Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Indulge in the holiday spirit with this easy White Chocolate Peppermint Bark recipe! This delicious treat combines creamy white chocolate, refreshing peppermint, and a sprinkle of candy canes for a festive delight. Perfect for sharing or gifting, it's a sweet addition to any celebration. Follow our simple steps to create this seasonal favorite in just over two hours. Click through for the full recipe and bring joy to your loved ones with this tasty treat!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

12 oz white chocolate chips

1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract

1/2 cup crushed candy canes (plus more for garnish)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional for drizzling)

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a 9x9 inch baking dish or a baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure there's an overhang to help lift the bark out later.

Melt the White Chocolate: In a medium microwave-safe bowl, combine white chocolate chips and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth. This should take about 1.5 to 2 minutes total.

Add Peppermint Flavor: Stir in the peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate until well-combined.

Add Crushed Candy Canes: Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the crushed candy canes for garnish, then stir the remaining candy canes into the melted chocolate mixture until evenly distributed.

Spread the Mixture: Pour the white chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thick.

Melt Dark Chocolate: If using, melt the dark chocolate chips in a separate bowl using the same microwave method. Once melted, drizzle the dark chocolate over the top of the white chocolate bark using a spoon.

Garnish: Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy canes over the top of the bark for decoration.

Chill: Refrigerate the bark for about 1-2 hours or until completely hardened.

Break into Pieces: Once firm, lift the bark out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Break or cut into pieces as desired.

Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins | Servings: 16 pieces

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the peppermint bark pieces on a festive plate or packaging if giving as gifts, and sprinkle a few extra crushed candy canes around the base for an added festive touch.