Holiday Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate

The holidays just wouldn’t be complete without a festive tray of Holiday Peppermint Bark — a stunning and delicious treat that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas. This delightful confection layers rich dark chocolate with creamy white chocolate, topped generously with crushed candy canes for that signature peppermint crunch. The contrast between the silky-smooth chocolate and the crisp peppermint shards creates an irresistible combination that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

It’s a classic holiday candy that’s elegant, easy to make, and loved by everyone — whether served as a sweet ending to a holiday feast, gifted in pretty tins, or simply enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it embodies the simplicity and charm of the holidays. You don’t need to be an expert baker — there’s no oven involved, no dough to roll, and no complex steps. Yet, the end result looks and tastes incredibly sophisticated.

The balance of rich dark chocolate and sweet white chocolate is perfectly complemented by the refreshing coolness of peppermint, making it a treat that never feels too heavy. I also love how versatile it is — you can make a big batch, break it into rustic shards, and package it beautifully for homemade holiday gifts. It’s festive, fun, and utterly delicious.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Holiday Peppermint Bark is a must-try because it’s the perfect combination of flavor, texture, and holiday nostalgia. It’s quick, affordable, and customizable — ideal for last-minute desserts or edible gifts.

Plus, it brings that touch of sparkle to your dessert table — shimmering candy cane pieces over glossy chocolate layers make it as beautiful as it is tasty. With just a few quality ingredients, you can create a treat that feels luxurious and comforting at the same time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 45–60 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 16 pieces
• Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
• Course: Dessert / Candy / Snack
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the Bark:

• 8 oz (225 g) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped or in chips
• 8 oz (225 g) white chocolate, chopped or in chips
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for extra mint flavor)
• ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Optional Garnishes:

• Drizzle of melted chocolate (dark or white) for decoration
• Edible glitter or gold dust (for festive presentation)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Pan:
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Set aside.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate:
   Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Melt using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second intervals), stirring until smooth.
3. Add Peppermint Extract:
   Stir in ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional).
4. Spread the Dark Chocolate Layer:
   Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly into a rectangle (about 9×12 inches).
   Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until just set but not hard.
5. Melt the White Chocolate:
   Melt the white chocolate using the same method, stirring until silky smooth.
6. Spread the White Chocolate Layer:
   Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
7. Add the Candy Cane Topping:
   Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the white chocolate while still wet. Gently press the pieces in so they stick.
8. Chill to Set:
   Refrigerate the bark for about 45 minutes or until completely hardened.
9. Break into Pieces:
   Once firm, break or cut the bark into irregular shards or squares.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt dark chocolate and spread into a thin rectangle.
3. Chill slightly until set.
4. Melt white chocolate and spread it on top.
5. Sprinkle crushed candy canes immediately.
6. Chill again until hardened.
7. Break into pieces and serve or package.

Save it

How to Serve

• Serve Peppermint Bark as a light, refreshing dessert after a heavy holiday meal.
• Pair with hot cocoa, coffee, or mulled wine.
• Present in holiday tins, gift boxes, or clear treat bags tied with a festive ribbon.
• Use pieces as toppings for ice cream, brownies, or hot chocolate bombs.

Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality chocolate — this is key since it’s the star ingredient.
• Don’t overheat chocolate, or it will seize; melt slowly and gently.
• Chill between layers, but don’t freeze — freezing can cause the chocolate to crack unevenly.
• For a glossy finish, temper the chocolate properly (optional for advanced bakers).
• Crush candy canes just before use to prevent them from becoming sticky.

Variations

1. Triple Chocolate Peppermint Bark: Add a layer of milk chocolate between dark and white for extra creaminess.
2. Nutty Peppermint Bark: Sprinkle crushed pistachios, almonds, or pecans along with candy canes.
3. Vegan Peppermint Bark: Use vegan dark and white chocolate made with coconut milk or almond milk.
4. Spiced Bark: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder to the dark chocolate for a subtle warmth.
5. Marbled Bark: Swirl the dark and white chocolates together before adding candy canes for a beautiful marbled effect.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
• Refrigeration: Keeps well for 3 weeks in the fridge (ensure it’s tightly sealed to avoid moisture).
• Freezing: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or silicone mat
• Heatproof mixing bowls
• Rubber spatula
• Double boiler or microwave
• Knife (for cutting bark)

Conclusion

Holiday Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate is the essence of festive simplicity — beautiful, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. With its rich chocolate base, cool peppermint flavor, and crunchy candy topping, it’s the perfect treat to brighten your dessert table or share as a homemade gift from the heart.

Whether you’re entertaining guests, filling stockings, or just craving a quick sweet fix during the holidays, this bark delivers holiday cheer in every bite.

Holiday Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate

The holidays just wouldn’t be complete without a festive tray of Holiday Peppermint Bark — a stunning and delicious treat that perfectly captures the spirit of Christmas.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Desserts

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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 60 mins Total Time 1 hr 15 mins Difficulty: Beginner

Ingredients

Servings

For the Bark:

• 8 oz (225 g)
• 8 oz (225 g)
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for extra mint flavor)
• ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies

Optional Garnishes:

• Drizzle of melted chocolate (dark or white)
• Edible glitter or gold dust (for festive presentation)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat. Set aside.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Melt using a double boiler (or microwave in 20-second intervals), stirring until smooth.
3. Add Peppermint Extract: Stir in ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract (optional).
4. Spread the Dark Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly into a rectangle (about 9x12 inches).
5. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until just set but not hard.
6. Melt the White Chocolate: Melt the white chocolate using the same method, stirring until silky smooth.
7. Spread the White Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
8. Add the Candy Cane Topping: Immediately sprinkle crushed candy canes evenly over the white chocolate while still wet. Gently press the pieces in so they stick.
9. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the bark for about 45 minutes or until completely hardened.
10. Break into Pieces: Once firm, break or cut the bark into irregular shards or squares.

Keywords: Holiday Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate