Pin this A festive, no-bake dessert featuring crisp layers of chocolate and white chocolate, studded with crushed peppermint candies and served as playful, shareable shards.
This recipe has become my holiday favorite to share with friends and family because it is simple yet impressive.
Ingredients
- Chocolate Layers: 200 g (7 oz) good-quality dark chocolate , 200 g (7 oz) good-quality white chocolate
- Peppermint Topping: 8 peppermint candy canes or 120 g (4 oz) hard peppermint candies , crushed , 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (optional , for extra flavor)
- Garnish: 20 g (0.7 oz) freeze-dried raspberries , crushed (optional) , 2 tbsp mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in short bursts in the microwave , stirring until smooth.
- Step 3:
- Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared sheet , spreading it with a spatula into a rough rectangle about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick.
- Step 4:
- Chill in the refrigerator for 10 minutes until just set but not hard.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile , melt the white chocolate using the same method. If using peppermint extract , stir it in now.
- Step 6:
- Pour the melted white chocolate over the chilled dark chocolate , spreading evenly.
- Step 7:
- Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies (and optional garnishes) over the white chocolate , pressing lightly so they adhere.
- Step 8:
- Chill again for 20 30 minutes until fully set.
- Step 9:
- Break or cut the bark into irregular shards.
- Step 10:
- Arrange the shards loosely on a large wooden board for serving , allowing guests to help themselves.
Pin this My family loves gathering around the table to break the bark into shards and share stories each holiday season.
Required Tools
Heatproof bowls , saucepan (for double boiler) or microwave , spatula , baking sheet , parchment paper , rolling pin or mallet (for crushing candies)
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (unless using dairy-free chocolate) . May contain soy (check chocolate labels) . Manufactured chocolates may contain nuts always read labels.
Nutritional Information
Calories 210 . Total Fat 11 g . Carbohydrates 27 g . Protein 2 g per serving.
Pin this This peppermint bark is a wonderful combination of flavors that always brings festive cheer to any gathering.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I melt chocolate without burning it?
Use a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently until smooth to prevent scorching.
- → Can I substitute peppermint candies for another topping?
Yes, toasted nuts, dried cherries, or festive sprinkles work well as alternative toppings.
- → What is the best way to break the bark into shards?
After chilling, gently break or cut the set chocolate into irregular pieces using a rolling pin or mallet.
- → Is it necessary to chill the chocolate layers?
Chilling ensures the layers set properly, making it easier to add the next layer and form sturdy shards.
- → How can I make this treat dairy-free?
Use dairy-free chocolate options to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
- → What serving suggestions complement this dessert?
Pair the shards with mugs of hot chocolate or coffee for a cozy, festive experience.