Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth with a festive twist? Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark is the perfect solution for anyone yearning for a delightful treat that combines indulgence with a hint of holiday cheer.
Imagine biting into a piece of rich, velvety chocolate, complemented by the cool freshness of peppermint and a crunchy dash of crushed candies. This treat is not just a feast for the taste buds; it’s also visually stunning, with its dazzling colors making it a standout option for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Why choose this delightful dessert? For starters, it’s incredibly quick to whip up, allowing you to enjoy delicious chocolate bark without spending all day in the kitchen. You’ll find that it uses simple ingredients, ensuring that you don’t have to hunt down anything fancy at the grocery store. Plus, this recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a fantastic addition to any festive occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Make it in under 30 minutes.
- Simple ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples.
- Family-friendly: A treat that everyone will enjoy.
- Festive flair: Perfect for holiday gifting or gatherings.
Ingredients for Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Sea salt flakes for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second increments until smooth.
- Spread the chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Melt the white chocolate: In another bowl, repeat the process for the white chocolate chips until they’re fully melted.
- Add peppermint extract: Stir the peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate for that refreshing flavor.
- Swirl the white chocolate: Drizzle the white chocolate over the semi-sweet layer and use a toothpick to create swirls.
- Add crushed candies: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies liberally over the top.
- Finish with sea salt: Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes for a perfect contrast.
- Chill to set: Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Break into pieces: Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve.
Tips for Success
- Keep an eye on the chocolate: Stop microwaving as soon as it’s mostly melted to avoid burning.
- Use high-quality chocolate: It makes a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Chill the bark well: Ensure it’s firm enough before breaking to achieve clean edges.
- Wrap for gifting: It makes a lovely homemade gift; just package it in a decorative tin.
Substitutions & Variations for Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
To Make It Vegan/Gluten-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate chips and ensure your peppermint candies are gluten-free.
Variations:
- Mix in some crushed nuts for added crunch.
- Swap out peppermint for orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Drizzle with caramel for an extra layer of sweetness.
Storage Instructions for Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: This bark can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the bark a few days in advance, making it the perfect pre-holiday treat to have on hand.
Frequently Asked Questions about Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Can I use other flavors instead of peppermint?
Absolutely! Try using orange, almond, or even coffee extract for different flavor profiles.
What is the best way to crush the peppermint candies?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or a heavy pan to gently crush them.
Can I make this recipe with only one type of chocolate?
Yes, feel free to use just semi-sweet or just white chocolate for a simpler version!
Final Toughts
Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark is an easy and delightful treat that celebrates the joy of chocolate and peppermint together. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your experiences and leave a star rating below your feedback is always welcome!
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Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark
Indulge in a festive treat with this easy-to-make Salted Peppermint Chocolate Bark, combining rich chocolate and cool peppermint for a delightful dessert.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 pieces
Ingredients
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- Sea salt flakes for topping
Instructions
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second increments until smooth.
- Spread the chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Melt the white chocolate: In another bowl, repeat the process for the white chocolate chips until they’re fully melted.
- Add peppermint extract: Stir the peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate for that refreshing flavor.
- Swirl the white chocolate: Drizzle the white chocolate over the semi-sweet layer and use a toothpick to create swirls.
- Add crushed candies: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies liberally over the top.
- Finish with sea salt: Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes for a perfect contrast.
- Chill to set: Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Break into pieces: Once set, break the bark into pieces and serve.
Notes
Keep an eye on the chocolate and use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Chill well before breaking into pieces for clean edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No Cooking Required
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian