Ultimate Peppermint Bark
Whip up this classic Peppermint Bark recipe! Easy, foolproof, and utterly delicious - like After Eights meet a Terry's Chocolate Orange! Get festive, Guv'nor! ... Heritage Kitchen
Peppermint Bark: The Ultimate Festive Treat
Fancy a bit of Christmas magic? Ever wondered how to create that stunning, festive treat everyone raves about? This peppermint bark recipe is your answer! It's more than just a sweet – it’s a holiday tradition waiting to happen, and trust me, it is delicious, it is Christmas Bark Recipes !
This classic confection boasts layers of rich chocolate and a refreshing peppermint crunch. it’s basically after eights gone wild, you know? think of it as a taste of christmas morning, all wrapped up in a bite.
Honestly, it's a total showstopper and one of my favorite christmas baking recipes .
What's the Big Deal About Peppermint Bark?
This isn't just some random candy. it is one of my favorite christmas candy recipes it's a staple! it's one of the easiest candy recipes homemade to try.
Peppermint bark has a certain festive charm. it shouts christmas cheer. it's the kind of treat that disappears faster than you can say "santa's coming!".
It's super easy to make. the hardest part is waiting for it to chill! it yields about 20-24 pieces. perfect for gifting or scoffing yourself.
Why not add to you list of xmas cookies !
Why You'll Love This Peppermint Bark
Apart from the obvious deliciousness, this peppermint dessert is pretty versatile. think about it: a quick festive gift, a delightful after-dinner treat, or a cheeky snack while watching love actually .
It also contains dark chocolate, which is a good source of antioxidants, supposedly! plus, it requires zero baking. big win! this recipe is one of the best peppermint christmas treats.
What makes this bark recipe so special? it's the contrast! the smooth chocolate against the crunchy peppermint is just divine, innit? a perfect harmony of textures and flavours.
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need...
Ultimate Peppermint Bark Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Peppermint Bark Bliss: Gearing Up for Christmas Candy Recipes
Right then, let's get cracking on this peppermint bark recipe , shall we? honestly, there's nowt more festive than whipping up a batch of this stuff.
It's proper christmas baking, innit? before you know it, you'll be surrounded by the smell of chocolate and peppermint – pure christmas in a bite.
Main Ingredients: The Holy Trinity for Peppermint Christmas Magic
Okay, listen up. Quality is key here, especially with the chocolate. We're not messing about with cheap stuff.
- Dark Chocolate: 12 ounces (340g) . Get a good quality bar, about 60-70% cacao. It should smell amazing and snap crisply. Seriously, don't skimp on this, okay?
- White Chocolate: 12 ounces (340g) . This is where it can get dicey, so get baking chocolate, not the cheapy ones.
- Candy Canes: 1 cup crushed (about 8 standard) . These are for that iconic peppermint crunch. The Christmas ones, of course.
Seasoning Notes: Adding That Extra Oomph
Now, a bark recipe isn't just about the chocolate, is it? These little additions elevate it.
- Peppermint Extract: A dash – we're talking 1 teaspoon (5ml) for the dark chocolate and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) for the white. Don’t overdo it or it’ll taste like toothpaste.
- Vegetable Oil: A smidge – 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) for the white chocolate to stop it seizing up.
- Quick Sub: Vanilla extract works if you're not keen on peppermint but trust me, peppermint is the point.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid (KISS)
No need for fancy gadgets. This isn't MasterChef, lol.
- Baking Pan: 9x13 inch . Anything similar will do.
- Parchment Paper: Essential for easy removal.
- Double Boiler: Or a bowl over a pan of simmering water. Microwave works, too. But carefully, yeah?
- Rolling Pin & Ziplock Bag: For bashing those candy canes. You get all your stress out, innit?
Honestly, that’s all you need! these christmas bark recipes are dead easy. keep this in mind: a little bit of love is the only ingredient for this peppermint dessert that can't be substituted.
Now, let’s get this candy recipes homemade sorted, eh? this xmas cookies tradition will take your game to the next level.
Alright, let's whip up a cracking peppermint bark recipe ! this is a classic christmas treat , so we'll aim for a recipe that's both foolproof and utterly delicious.
Think after eight mints meet a terry's chocolate orange in festive form. here’s the plan, guv'nor.
Cracking Peppermint Bark: It's All About That Christmas Candy!
Honestly, what screams " christmas baking recipes " more than peppermint bark ? it's dead easy to make. even i, with my track record of slightly singeing toast, can pull it off.
It’s a perfect little peppermint dessert to bring some joy to the table!
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row!
First things first, mise en place , darling! that means having everything ready before you start. 12 oz of dark chocolate.
12 oz of white chocolate. a cup of crushed candy canes. you know, the usual suspects for christmas candy recipes .
For time-saving, crush those candy canes ahead of time. Bash 'em in a ziplock bag with a rolling pin. Sorted!
And safety? Don't burn yourself melting chocolate. Seriously, molten chocolate is surprisingly hot. A right pain, if you ask me!
Step-by-Step: Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy
Right, here's the breakdown. It's simpler than putting up the Christmas tree.
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment. Don't skip this!
- Melt 12 oz of dark chocolate (double boiler or microwave, 30-second intervals).
- Spread it evenly in the pan.
- Chill for 30 minutes till set.
- Melt 12 oz of white chocolate (same drill). Add a smidge of oil for extra smoothness.
- Pour over the dark chocolate.
- Sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
- Chill for 1- 2 hours till rock solid.
You know it's done when you can poke it without leaving a dent.
Pro Tips: Blimey, That's Clever!
Want to take your Xmas Cookies game up a notch?
Firstly, don't cheap out on the chocolate. Decent chocolate = decent Bark Recipe . Common mistake: burning the white chocolate. It's temperamental stuff. Go slow and steady!
Secondly, you can totally make the crushed candy canes a day ahead. Sorted for even more time!
Now, isn't that easy? this christmas candy is something to be proud of! honestly, this is my go-to peppermint christmas treat and is always a crowd-pleaser.
I've made this candy recipes homemade one so many times, i reckon i could do it with my eyes closed.
Right, time to go and make some to share with my mates!
Right, so you've got your peppermint bark recipe ready? ace! now, before you dive headfirst into making the best christmas candy recipes ever, let's talk about a few bits and bobs to make sure it's absolutely spot on .
It's all about those finishing touches, innit?
Recipe Notes: Making Your Christmas Bark Recipes Shine
You know, making peppermint bark recipes isn't just about following instructions, it's about making it yours . think of these notes as little nudges in the right direction.
I mean, honestly, who doesn’t want their version of peppermint dessert to be the talk of christmas?
Serving Suggestions: Posh it Up a Bit
Fancy having your christmas baking recipes looking like they came from fortnum & mason? for plating, break the bark into rustic, uneven pieces.
It looks dead posh! arrange 'em on a nice platter or tiered stand. think delicate. serve alongside mugs of steaming hot chocolate (marshmallows are a must, obviously) or a cheeky glass of mulled wine.
Sorted!
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh, Love
Right, so you've made a mountain of peppermint christmas bark, but can't eat it all at once (hard to believe, i know!).
Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. the fridge is fine, but might make it a bit too solid.
It will last for up to two weeks, probably. for longer storage, freezing is an option! wrap individual pieces tightly and freeze for up to two months.
Just let it thaw in the fridge before scoffing.
Variations: Get a Bit Adventurous
Fancy a twist on your christmas candy recipes or candy recipes homemade ? how about a vegan version? just use dairy-free chocolate.
Easy peasy. or, switch up the peppermint for orange zest – that's a right classy take. maybe a bark recipe with a hint of chilli? you know i remember one xmas cookies session that went south, because i added a little bit more spice than expected.
Honestly, don't be afraid to get creative!
Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of What You Fancy…
Let's be honest, we're not making a salad here. but, for those who like to know: peppermint bark recipe is mainly chocolate and sugar.
So, it’s high in calories and sugars, obviously. but hey, it's christmas! a little bit of what you fancy does you good.
Just don't eat the whole batch in one sitting.
So there you have it! My top tips for nailing this Festive Chocolate Bark recipe. Go forth, get baking, and have a cracking Christmas!
Frequently Asked Questions
My white chocolate seized up when I tried to melt it! What went wrong?
Ah, the dreaded seized chocolate! White chocolate is notoriously fussy. It often seizes because it's overheated or comes into contact with even a tiny bit of water. To avoid this, melt it very gently over a double boiler or in the microwave in short bursts (15-20 seconds), stirring frequently. Adding a smidge of vegetable or coconut oil, as noted in the peppermint bark recipe, can help create a smoother consistency.
How can I get the candy canes to stick to the peppermint bark recipe properly? They keep falling off!
This is a common issue, old bean. The trick is to sprinkle the crushed candy canes onto the white chocolate immediately after spreading it. The chocolate needs to be soft and melty for the candy canes to properly adhere. If the chocolate starts to set before you get the candy canes on, they won't stick as well. You can also gently press them into the chocolate for a more secure hold.
Can I make peppermint bark ahead of time? How long does it last?
Absolutely, Peppermint Bark is a fantastic make-ahead treat! It can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place (not the fridge, unless it's very warm) for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It's like a Christmas miracle that keeps on giving!
Is there a way to make this peppermint bark recipe a little healthier?
While Peppermint Bark is a treat, there are ways to make it slightly less naughty. Use dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage (70% or higher) as it has less sugar. You could also use a sugar-free or reduced-sugar white chocolate alternative. Finally, go easy on the crushed candy canes or use a natural, less processed peppermint candy.
My Peppermint Bark is melting too quickly at room temperature! What can I do?
Melting chocolate is often due to not tempering it, which is a more advanced technique that stabilizes the chocolate. Make sure you are using good quality chocolate, as better chocolate tends to melt less quickly. Keeping it in a cooler room can also help. If you live in a warm climate, it's best to store it in the refrigerator and take it out just before serving. Think of it like a diva that needs a specific temperature to shine.
Can I use different types of chocolate for this peppermint bark recipe? Like milk chocolate or even a combination?
You absolutely can, mate! While the recipe calls for dark and white chocolate, feel free to get creative. Milk chocolate can be substituted for the dark chocolate layer for a sweeter flavour. You could even do a triple layer: dark, milk, and white! Just be aware that milk chocolate tends to be sweeter and softer, so it might melt a bit faster at room temperature. Experiment and find what you like best!
