why make this recipe
Making Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a joyful experience, especially during the holiday season. This treat blends the rich taste of chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. It’s a delightful way to celebrate festive moments and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a perfect gift from the kitchen. You can wrap it up nicely and share it with loved ones. This recipe allows you to enjoy a classic holiday treat without the fuss of complicated techniques.
equipment needed for Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
- Microwave-safe bowls
- 8×8 inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Butter knife or pizza cutter for cutting
- Zip-top bag for crushing candy canes
What You Need to Make Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
- 6 ounces white chocolate
- 6 ounces semi-sweet chocolate
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 3 large candy canes, crushed
How to Cook Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark Step by Step
To start, you will need to prepare your workspace by gathering all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Begin by lining an 8×8 dish with parchment paper. This step is key, as it prevents the chocolate from sticking to the dish.
Next, take a small microwave-safe bowl and combine the chopped semi-sweet chocolate with 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil. Place the bowl in the microwave and heat it at 50% power for 2-3 minutes. Make sure to stir the chocolate occasionally during this time. This helps it melt evenly and become smooth.
Once the semi-sweet chocolate is melted, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract. This will infuse the chocolate with a delicious minty flavor. Spread the melted chocolate evenly in the prepared pan using a rubber spatula. After you have smoothed it out, refrigerate the pan for about 10-12 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
For the next layer, take another bowl and add the white chocolate along with the remaining vegetable oil. Similarly, microwave this mixture at 50% power for 1-2 minutes. Stir every 30 seconds to ensure the chocolate melts and blends smoothly. Once it’s ready, stir in the remaining peppermint extract.
Carefully spread the melted white chocolate over the set semi-sweet chocolate layer. Use the rubber spatula to ensure an even layer. Then, take your crushed candy canes and sprinkle them generously on top of the white chocolate. Press them gently into the chocolate to help them adhere.
After you have completed these steps, return the pan to the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least an hour to fully set. After the time is up, you can take it out of the fridge and cut it into pieces. Use a butter knife or pizza cutter for clean edges.
Store any leftover chocolate peppermint bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three weeks, although it’s likely to be eaten much faster than that!
how to make Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Making Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark is simple. Start by preparing your workspace with all necessary materials. Line an 8×8 dish with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate with half the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl at 50% power for 2-3 minutes. Stir it regularly until it turns smooth and creamy. Mix in peppermint extract, then pour the chocolate into the lined dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly and refrigerate it for about 10-12 minutes, until it is set.
Next, prepare the white chocolate with the rest of the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat this at 50% power for around 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until silky smooth. Once melted, combine it with the peppermint extract. Pour this mixture over the cooled semi-sweet chocolate layer, spreading it carefully.
Take crushed candy canes and sprinkle them on top, pressing down so they adhere to the chocolate. Return the dish to the fridge for at least one hour. After this time, slice the bark into your desired serving sizes. Enjoy the festive treat straight away or store it in an airtight container in your fridge.
how to serve Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
To serve Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark, simply cut it into bite-sized pieces. You can present the bark on a festive plate or in a gift box, especially if you are sharing or giving it away. Garnishing the plate with additional crushed candy canes or a sprinkle of cocoa can add a nice touch.
This treat can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack anytime. It’s also great for holiday parties or movie nights. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider placing a bowl of chocolate peppermint bark on the dessert table for guests to indulge in.
For an extra special presentation, pair it with a warm beverage, like hot chocolate or peppermint tea. This combination enhances the experience and makes for a cozy treat.
what to serve with Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
When planning to serve Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark, think about pairing it with complementary flavors. A warm cup of peppermint tea or hot cocoa is a natural choice. The warmth will contrast nicely with the cool peppermint flavor of the bark.
Other great pairings include coffee or espresso for a more adult-oriented treat. If you enjoy desserts, consider serving the bark alongside rich desserts, such as brownies or cookies. The variety of textures and flavors will surely impress your guests.
You could also consider serving the bark with fresh fruits, like strawberries or raspberries. Their tartness can balance the sweetness of the chocolate, making for an inviting dessert platter.
how to store Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
To properly store Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark, make sure it has completely set first. Place the pieces in an airtight container to keep them fresh. It is best to layer the pieces with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
You can store the container in the refrigerator, where it will remain good for up to three weeks. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing the bark. Wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
When you are ready to enjoy, there’s no need to thaw the bark in advance. You can break off a piece and eat it straight from the freezer! Just keep in mind that it will be a bit colder than usual.
tips to make Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
One useful tip when making Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark is to ensure your chocolate is finely chopped before microwaving. Smaller pieces melt more evenly and will reduce the risk of overheating.
Be careful not to overheat the chocolate in the microwave. Stir frequently and use short bursts of heat. If you notice any lumps that do not seem to melt, it is a sign that you may have overheated the chocolate.
Another tip is to use quality chocolate for the best flavor. While there are many brands available, choosing a good quality semi-sweet and white chocolate will enhance the overall taste of your bark.
When it comes to peppermint flavor, adjust the extract according to your taste. Some may prefer a stronger peppermint punch, while others might enjoy a milder touch. Adjusting the amount will suit everyone’s palate nicely.
variation
If you want to experiment with flavors, you can create variations of the basic chocolate peppermint bark. Instead of peppermint extract, try using orange or almond extract for a different twist. This will give a unique taste and a delightful surprise for those trying it.
You can also add different toppings like nuts or dried fruits to your bark. Chopped walnuts or pecans offer a crunchy texture, while dried cranberries or cherries add a fruity twist.
For a salty-sweet combination, sprinkle some sea salt on top before setting in the refrigerator. This contrast will make each bite even more satisfying.
best time to make Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark
The best time to make Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark is during the holiday season. However, it can bring joy anytime you crave a sweet and minty treat.
Consider making it for festive occasions like Christmas or New Year’s Eve celebrations. It also works well for gatherings, family events, or even as a delightful gift for friends and neighbors.
Making it ahead of time saves you from any last-minute rush. You can prepare the bark days in advance and store it for when you need a quick dessert or treat.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake to avoid is not preparing your dish properly. Always line your baking dish with parchment paper. This makes it much easier to remove the bark and cut it into pieces once it has set.
Another pitfall is overheating the chocolate. Be mindful when microwaving the chocolate and stir regularly. Heating it too long can cause it to seize or become grainy, ruining the smooth texture you want.
Many also forget to crush the candy canes finely. Using larger chunks can lead to uneven distribution on the bark. Aim for a mix of fine dust and small chunks for an appealing appearance.
nutritional notes
If you plan to enjoy Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark, it’s good to be aware of the nutrition. This treat is rich in calories due to its chocolate content. A piece of bark can be high in sugar, so keep portion sizes small.
However, it also has some benefits! The dark chocolate used has antioxidants, which can be beneficial in moderation. The peppermint adds a refreshing flavor and can help with digestion, making it a nice treat after a meal.
FAQs
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Yes, you can mix and match different types of chocolate based on your preference. Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can also work well with the peppermint flavor.
How long does the bark last?
When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, the bark can last up to three weeks. If you freeze it, it can last much longer.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Certainly! You can use dairy-free chocolate options and ensure that the candy canes you choose are cruelty-free. There are many brands that offer vegan chocolate suitable for this recipe.
conclusion
Easy Homemade Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a delightful treat that is simple to make and full of festive flavors. It celebrates the perfect blend of chocolate and peppermint, making it an excellent snack or gift during the holiday season.
With just a few ingredients and steps, you can enjoy a delicious homemade treat. Whether you make it for yourself, friends, or family, this chocolate bark is sure to please everyone. So gather your ingredients, share a joyful moment in the kitchen, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your efforts!
