Classic Peppermint Bark with Dark and White Chocolate Layers
This festive two-layer chocolate confection combines rich semisweet chocolate with creamy white chocolate, enhanced with peppermint extract and topped with crushed candy canes. The contrasting layers create beautiful visual appeal while delivering a perfect balance of chocolate richness and cool peppermint flavor. Ideal for holiday gifting or seasonal entertaining, this bark requires no special equipment beyond a double boiler and sets easily in the refrigerator. The key to success lies in proper timing between layers and gently pressing the candy pieces to ensure they stay attached during storage.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Guittard semisweet chocolate, 61% cacao
- 1 pound Guittard white chocolate, 31% cacao
- ⅓ teaspoon peppermint extract, or food grade peppermint oil
- ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract, or food grade peppermint oil
- ½ cup peppermint candies or candy canes, crushedpeppermint hard candies1:1texture
any hard peppermint candy works
Instructions
- 1
Line a jelly roll pan with waxed paper
- 2
Melt semisweet chocolate in a double boiler
- 3
Stir peppermint extract into melted semisweet chocolate
- 4
Spread semisweet chocolate over waxed paper to desired thickness
- 5
Refrigerate for about 30 minutes until partially set
- 6
Melt white chocolate in double boiler
- 7
Stir peppermint extract into melted white chocolate
- 8
Spread white chocolate over the semisweet chocolate layer
- 9
Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies over white chocolate
- 10
Gently press candies into chocolate to secure
- 11
Allow to set completely until firm
- 12
Break into pieces for serving
Tips
Press candy pieces firmly into the white chocolate layer to prevent them from falling off during storage and handling.
Don't let the first chocolate layer set completely before adding the white layer - it should be firm but not hard for proper adhesion.
Store in an airtight container away from humidity to prevent peppermint candies from becoming soggy and losing their crunch.
Good to Know
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Keep away from humidity to prevent candies from becoming soggy.
Can be made up to 2 weeks in advance. Store properly to maintain candy crunch.
Break into irregular pieces and serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor.
Common Mistakes
Allow first layer to set partially but not completely before adding white chocolate to ensure proper adhesion
Press candy pieces firmly into white chocolate to prevent them from falling off during storage
Substitutions
any hard peppermint candy works
FAQ
Can I use chocolate chips instead of bar chocolate?
Yes, but bar chocolate melts more smoothly. If using chips, add a small amount of coconut oil for better consistency.
How long does the bark need to set completely?
Allow up to 2 hours for complete setting, though it may be ready sooner depending on thickness and room temperature.
Can I freeze peppermint bark for longer storage?
Yes, wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to prevent condensation.