The holidays are the perfect time for indulgent treats, and nothing says festive like peppermint bark. This Ghirardelli-inspired recipe brings the rich taste of chocolate together with the refreshing crunch of peppermint. It’s a delightful holiday favorite that you can easily make at home, perfect for gifting or enjoying with your family during the season.
Imagine a luscious layer of dark chocolate, topped with a creamy white chocolate layer, and finished off with a sprinkle of crushed peppermint candies. This peppermint bark is not just visually appealing; it delivers a deliciously rich and minty flavor that is sure to please everyone. It’s a seasonal treat that can be whipped up in no time!
Visual Appeal of Peppermint Bark
Homemade peppermint bark is more than just a treat; it’s a visual celebration of the holiday season. The rich layers of dark and white chocolate create a striking contrast that catches the eye.
When arranged beautifully on a plate, with pieces scattered artfully, it invites everyone to indulge. The vibrant red and white of the crushed peppermint candies adds a festive touch, ensuring it stands out during holiday gatherings.
The Flavor Profile
The combination of dark chocolate and white chocolate brings a delightful balance of flavors to each bite. Dark chocolate offers a rich, slightly bitter taste, which is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the white chocolate.
Adding peppermint extract enhances the festive spirit, giving the bark a refreshing minty flavor that is synonymous with the holidays. Each piece delivers a satisfying crunch from the peppermint candies, rounding out the experience with both flavor and texture.
Preparing Your Ingredients
To create this delightful bark, start with high-quality chocolate. Ghirardelli dark and white chocolate wafers are ideal, as they melt beautifully and provide a rich taste.
Don’t forget the peppermint candies! Crushed or in candy cane form, these add not only flavor but also a festive appearance. Having everything prepped and ready to go will streamline the process and make for a more enjoyable baking experience.
Creating the Layers
The layering process is where the magic happens. Begin with the dark chocolate, melting it to a silky smooth consistency before spreading it onto a lined baking sheet.
Once the dark layer has set, the next step is to melt the white chocolate and incorporate peppermint extract. Pour this over the cooled dark chocolate, creating a beautiful layered effect. Top it with crushed peppermint candies, pressing them gently to adhere.
After the layers have been assembled, patience is key. Allow the bark to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a quicker set. This ensures that the layers bond nicely.
Once set, breaking the bark into pieces is a satisfying task. Each piece showcases the beautiful layers and festive toppings, ready to be enjoyed or gifted to friends and family.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This peppermint bark is not only a holiday staple but also a delightful treat year-round. It’s perfect for parties, as a thoughtful gift, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home.
With its appealing presentation and delicious flavor profile, it brings a smile to anyone who tastes it, making it a cherished recipe in any household.
Delicious Ghirardelli Peppermint Bark
This peppermint bark recipe combines silky dark and white chocolate with refreshing peppermint, creating a sweet and minty treat that’s perfect for the holidays. The contrast of flavors and textures will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Ghirardelli dark chocolate wafers or bars
- 8 ounces Ghirardelli white chocolate wafers or bars
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it’s smooth and even.
- Melt Dark Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it into an even layer. Let it cool and set for about 15 minutes.
- Add Peppermint Extract: Once the dark chocolate has set, melt the white chocolate in the same manner. Stir in the peppermint extract once melted.
- Layer the White Chocolate: Pour the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer, spreading it evenly. Immediately sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies over the top, pressing them lightly to adhere.
- Cool and Break: Allow the bark to set completely at room temperature or in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Once set, break it into pieces and enjoy!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 12 pieces
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
