Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate
Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes
Indulge in the festive delight of Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate, a perfect treat for the holiday season.
This Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate is a holiday favorite, combining rich dark chocolate with refreshing peppermint for a delightful treat.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich dark chocolate flavor complemented by crunchy peppermint pieces
- Perfectly festive and easy to make for any holiday gathering
- A beautiful and delicious gift for friends and family
A Perfect Holiday Treat
Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate is not just a dessert; it's a holiday tradition that brings joy to any gathering. The combination of rich dark chocolate and crunchy peppermint creates an irresistible treat that pleases the palate. Whether you’re enjoying it by the fireplace or sharing it with loved ones, this delightful bark is sure to evoke the spirit of the season.
Making Peppermint Bark is a simple yet rewarding process. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a stunning confection that looks as good as it tastes. It’s a wonderful opportunity to involve family and friends in the kitchen, creating memories while crafting a delicious treat. Plus, the vibrant colors and textures make it a beautiful centerpiece for any holiday dessert table.
Gift-Worthy and Versatile
One of the best things about Peppermint Bark is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different types of chocolate or mix in other toppings, such as nuts or dried fruits, making it a great canvas for your creativity. Packaged beautifully, it also makes for an ideal homemade gift, perfect for neighbors, coworkers, or holiday party hosts.
This treat is not only delicious but also a thoughtful way to show appreciation during the holiday season. Imagine the smiles you'll receive when friends and family open their gifts to find handcrafted Peppermint Bark. It’s a delightful way to share the joy of the holidays and spread cheer in your community.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once you've made your Peppermint Bark, storing it properly ensures that it stays fresh and delicious. Keep the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warmer climate, refrigerating it can help maintain the chocolate's firmness and prevent melting.
When serving, consider pairing this treat with hot cocoa or coffee for a festive touch. The rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint flavors complement warm beverages beautifully. You could also arrange the bark on a decorative platter with other holiday sweets for an impressive dessert spread.
Ingredients
For the Bark
- 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate, chopped (for drizzling)
Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor.
Instructions
Melt the Dark Chocolate
In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate until smooth, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add Peppermint
Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract if using, and half of the crushed peppermint candies.
Spread the Mixture
Pour the chocolate mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Cool and Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies on top. Allow to cool at room temperature until set or refrigerate for quicker results.
Drizzle with White Chocolate
Melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the hardened bark for an elegant finish. Let it set again.
Break and Serve
Once fully set, break the bark into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
Enjoy your homemade peppermint bark during the holidays!
Nutritional Information
While Peppermint Bark is a delightful indulgence, it's also important to be mindful of portion sizes. Dark chocolate is known for its health benefits, including antioxidants and potential heart health advantages when consumed in moderation. The addition of peppermint adds a fresh flavor and can aid digestion, making this treat not just tasty but also a little bit wholesome.
If you're counting calories, consider cutting the bark into smaller pieces to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging. Each bite offers a burst of flavor, allowing you to enjoy this festive treat while keeping your dietary goals in mind.
Experiment with Flavors
Don't hesitate to switch up the flavors in your Peppermint Bark. While dark chocolate and peppermint are a classic combination, you can experiment with milk or white chocolate for a different taste experience. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
For a more gourmet twist, consider incorporating flavors like orange or almond extracts. These additions can elevate your Peppermint Bark to new heights, making it a unique treat that stands out during the holiday festivities.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the flavor will be sweeter.
→ How long does peppermint bark last?
Stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 2 weeks.
→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make peppermint bark several days in advance.
→ Is it possible to customize the toppings?
Yes! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or different types of candy for variation.
Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate
Indulge in the festive delight of Peppermint Bark with Dark Chocolate, a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Sweet Indulgence Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12 pieces
What You'll Need
For the Bark
- 12 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup white chocolate, chopped (for drizzling)
How-To Steps
In a double boiler or microwave, melt the dark chocolate until smooth, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract if using, and half of the crushed peppermint candies.
Pour the chocolate mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies on top. Allow to cool at room temperature until set or refrigerate for quicker results.
Melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the hardened bark for an elegant finish. Let it set again.
Once fully set, break the bark into pieces and serve or store in an airtight container.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 17g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 2g