Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark (Printable)
Layers of smooth dark chocolate with crushed peppermint candies for a festive, decadent treat.
# Ingredient List:
→ Chocolate Layer
01 - 14 oz high-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped or chips
02 - 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
→ Peppermint Topping
03 - 6 peppermint candy canes or hard peppermint candies, crushed
# How to Make:
01 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
02 - Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over barely simmering water, stirring frequently until smooth, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted.
03 - Stir the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate until fully incorporated.
04 - Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared sheet and spread evenly into a 9x12-inch, 1/4-inch thick layer.
05 - Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies evenly over the chocolate surface.
06 - Press the candies gently into the chocolate using the back of a spoon or your hands.
07 - Refrigerate the bark for 45 minutes to 1 hour until fully set.
08 - Once firm, break the bark into irregular pieces and store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated as preferred.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It feels like a secret indulgence you want to share with your closest friends and family
- The perfect balance of decadent chocolate and refreshing peppermint makes it an instant favorite every holiday season
02 -
- Melting the chocolate too quickly or overheating can cause it to seize, so patience is key
- Pressing the peppermint candies gently into the chocolate before chilling ensures they stick and give that satisfying crunch without falling off later
03 -
- Use a good quality chocolate to avoid the need for tempering—this keeps the bark shiny and snap-crisp without extra fuss
- Crushing the peppermint candies with a rolling pin inside a plastic bag helps you control the size of pieces for perfect texture contrast