Peppermint bark is a holiday classic that I love making every year. With just five ingredients, I can put together a treat that feels festive, looks beautiful, and tastes irresistible. Layers of smooth chocolate, cool peppermint, and the crunch of candy canes come together in this simple yet elegant homemade candy. It’s the perfect addition to a cookie tray, a thoughtful gift, or simply a treat I make to enjoy during the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like how this peppermint bark combines ease with festive flair. I only need to melt chocolate, layer it, and sprinkle crushed candy canes on top—no baking required. I enjoy the balance between rich chocolate and refreshing peppermint, and I find that kids and adults both go back for more. Since the recipe scales up so easily, I often double or triple it to make plenty for sharing. It’s also a recipe that looks impressive but doesn’t demand much time, which makes it a lifesaver during the busy holiday season.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• White chocolate, coarsely chopped and divided

• Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped

• Vegetable oil or coconut oil

• Peppermint extract

• Candy canes, crushed

Directions

1. I line an 8- or 9-inch square pan (or baking sheet) with parchment paper or foil.

2. For the bottom layer, I melt half the white chocolate with a little oil until smooth, stir in peppermint extract, then spread it into the pan. I chill it for 10–15 minutes until almost set.

3. For the middle layer, I melt the semi-sweet chocolate with oil, stir in peppermint extract, then spread it over the first layer. I chill again for 10–15 minutes.

4. For the top layer, I melt the remaining white chocolate with oil, spread it over the bark, and sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly on top.

5. I refrigerate the bark for about 1 hour until fully set. Once firm, I lift it from the pan and break or cut it into pieces.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes just over 1 pound of peppermint bark, which is about 16 servings depending on how I cut it. Prep time is around 30 minutes, and total time (including chilling and setting) is about 1 hour 45 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes switch the chocolate layers and place the semi-sweet chocolate at the bottom with white chocolate in the middle. For a simpler version, I make only two layers using equal amounts of white and semi-sweet chocolate. If I want a playful touch, I swirl the layers slightly instead of keeping them clean. This recipe also works well as peppermint bark cookies or fudge by adapting the same idea with different bases.

storage/reheating

I store the bark in the refrigerator, where it keeps well for up to 3 weeks. In colder months, I leave it at room temperature for a few days without a problem, but I prefer the fridge for longer freshness. If the bark has chilled for more than 3–4 hours, I let it sit out for about 10 minutes before breaking it apart so the layers don’t separate.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of baking chocolate?

I prefer using real chocolate bars because they melt smoothly. Chocolate chips contain stabilizers that prevent them from melting into a silky texture.

Can I use peppermint oil instead of extract?

Yes, but I only need a drop—it’s very strong. I usually stick with extract since it’s easier to control.

Why do my chocolate layers separate?

If I chill a layer until it’s fully hardened before adding the next, the bark can split apart. I make sure each layer is just slightly soft so they bond together.

Can I freeze peppermint bark?

I don’t recommend freezing because condensation can make the candy canes sticky and affect the texture. Refrigeration works best.

How do I crush the candy canes?

I place unwrapped candy canes in a sealed plastic bag, then crush them with a rolling pin or mallet. It’s quick and stress-relieving!

Conclusion

This peppermint bark recipe is one of my go-to holiday traditions because it’s simple, festive, and always loved. I like how the peppermint flavor brightens the richness of the chocolate, and the candy canes add just the right amount of crunch. Whether I’m making it for gifts, parties, or just to enjoy at home, it always feels like the perfect Christmas treat.

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