Description
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a festive and easy-to-make holiday treat combining rich dark chocolate with the refreshing crunch of crushed candy canes. This no-bake dessert features a smooth, glossy chocolate layer infused with optional peppermint extract and sprinkled with crushed candy cane pieces for a delightful minty flavor and a perfect holiday crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 6 regular-sized candy canes
- 9 oz dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Line a half sheet pan with a Silpat mat or parchment paper and set aside to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Crush: Place the candy canes into a large ziplock bag, then set the bag on a kitchen towel. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to carefully crush the candy canes into pieces. This keeps any potential bag tears contained and makes cleanup simpler. Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the crushed candy canes and set aside for topping.
- Melt: Transfer the dark chocolate chips to a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth, about 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes total. Stir in the crushed candy canes and peppermint extract if using, blending evenly.
- Spread: Pour the chocolate and crushed candy cane mixture onto the prepared sheet pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. To ensure an even layer, pick up the pan and gently shake it back and forth. Sprinkle the reserved crushed candy cane pieces over the top for extra texture and decoration.
- Set: Place the sheet pan in the refrigerator and chill until the chocolate hardens and sets completely, about 20 minutes.
- Break: Once hardened, break the peppermint bark into bite-sized pieces. Serve immediately, or package and gift by placing them in gift bags tied with ribbons. Store leftover bark refrigerated to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Use good quality dark chocolate chips for best flavor and smooth texture.
- The peppermint extract is optional but adds a stronger minty aroma.
- Crushing candy canes inside a sealed bag on a towel prevents mess and broken bag pieces.
- Store peppermint bark in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and crunchy.
- This recipe is naturally gluten free and vegetarian.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peppermint bark, dark chocolate, holiday dessert, easy holiday treat, peppermint chocolate bark, no bake chocolate bark, Christmas candy
