Name: Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 regular-sized candy canes; 9 oz dark chocolate chips; 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)

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Introduction

Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a festive and simple treat perfect for the holiday season. Combining rich dark chocolate with crunchy peppermint candy canes creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. It’s quick to make and makes a wonderful gift or snack.

A close-up image shows a piece of dark chocolate bark held between the thumb and index finger of a woman's hand. The chocolate piece is dark brown and covered with small, jagged pieces of crushed white and red peppermint candy, giving it a textured and festive look. In the background, a white cup and more chocolate bark topped with similar candy pieces are placed on a white marbled surface, with a red cloth and another cloth underneath partly visible. The overall setting feels cozy and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 regular-sized candy canes
9 oz dark chocolate chips
1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a half sheet pan with a Silpat or parchment paper, then set it aside.
Step 2: Place the candy canes in a large ziplock bag on top of a kitchen towel. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to crush the candy canes, keeping the bag on the towel to catch any potential tears and make cleanup easier. Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the crushed candy and set aside.
Step 3: In a medium-sized bowl, microwave the dark chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
Step 4: Stir the remaining crushed candy canes and peppermint extract (if using) into the melted chocolate until well combined.
Step 5: Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and spread it evenly. Lift the pan and gently shake it back and forth to help the chocolate form a smooth layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of crushed candy canes evenly over the top.
Step 7: Refrigerate the bark until fully set, about 20 minutes.
Step 8: Once set, break the bark into pieces. Serve immediately or package into gift bags. Keep refrigerated until ready to eat or gift.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother melt, chop the chocolate chips slightly before microwaving or use a double boiler method.
Substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate for different flavor profiles.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top before refrigerating to enhance the chocolate’s richness.

Storage

Store the peppermint bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. To soften slightly before serving, allow it to sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. Avoid storing at room temperature for extended periods to prevent melting or stickiness.

How to Serve

A woman's hand is holding a clear plastic bag tied with a shiny orange bow at the top, filled with several pieces of dark chocolate bark. The chocolate pieces are dark brown with a smooth and glossy texture, scattered with small crushed white and pink peppermint candy bits. In the background, there is a white marbled surface with a blurred wooden spatula topped with more chocolate bark and peppermint pieces, and a red cloth adding color behind the treats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crushed peppermint candies instead of candy canes?

Yes, crushed peppermint candies work just as well if candy canes are not available. They provide the same minty crunch and festive look.

How can I make the chocolate bark without a microwave?

You can melt the chocolate using a double boiler on the stovetop. Place a heatproof bowl over simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the chocolate continuously until melted and smooth.