Peppermint Bark: the effortless recipe for a delicious holiday candy

When the holidays roll around, there's nothing like homemade peppermint bark. This irresistible candy is made with gorgeous layers of white and dark chocolate topped with minty crushed candy canes. The combination of peppermint and sweet, rich chocolate is a tried and true Christmas favorite.

It's super easy to make and makes a great homemade treat you can gift to your loved ones and the best part is it only takes a few minutes to make – no oven needed! Peppermint bark is the perfect easy chocolate-mint treat to make this holiday season.

What is Peppermint Bark?

Peppermint bark is a classic holiday candy made by layering dark chocolate and white chocolate, then garnishing it with crushed candy canes. It's delicious and easy to make. Even if you've never made homemade candy before, you'll be able to master peppermint bark in no time!

How to Make Peppermint Bark

To make the perfect peppermint bark, start by lining a baking dish with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little overhang off the sides. This will make it easier to remove the bark. Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave, then stir until it's smooth. Use 30-second bursts to melt the chocolate. Pour the chocolate into the baking dish, then refrigerate it for 15 minutes so the chocolate can set.

Once the chocolate has set, microwave the white chocolate until it has melted. Pour the white chocolate over the semisweet chocolate. Generously sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top of the white chocolate, then put the baking dish back in the fridge for 30 minutes. Break the chocolate into large pieces and serve.

Tips for the Best Peppermint Bark

Use high-quality chocolate to make your peppermint bark.

The easiest way to crush the candy canes is to put them in a sealable bag and beat them with a rolling pin or meat tenderizer.

If you don't have peppermint extract, peppermint oil is a good substitute.

For a milder mint flavor, you can leave out the peppermint extract.

Peppermint Bark Variations

There are so many fun, tasty peppermint bark variations you can try. For a sweeter peppermint bark, you can use milk chocolate instead of semisweet.

Prefer to make all-white peppermint bark? No problem. Replace the semisweet chocolate with the same amount of white chocolate. Swap out the crushed candy canes and top your bark with M&Ms or chocolate chips.

How to Store Layered Peppermint Bark

Store your peppermint bark in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. It'll last up to 3 weeks in the fridge.

Instructions

Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.

Melt the semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave. Use 30-second bursts until melted, then stir until smooth.

Pour the chocolate into the baking dish. Spread the chocolate in an even layer then refrigerate for 15 minutes to set.

Microwave the white chocolate in 30-second bursts until melted. Stir until smooth.

Pour the white chocolate over the semisweet chocolate. Sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top then place in the fridge for 30 minutes. Break the chocolate into large pieces and serve.

Notes

You can chop up chocolate instead of using chocolate chips if it's more convenient for you.