Salted Peppermint Bark Recipe

Introduction

Salted Peppermint Bark is a festive and simple treat combining rich chocolate with refreshing peppermint and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for holidays or gifting, this sweet and salty delight can be ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

• 24 ounces light cocoa candy melts (can substitute chocolate chips)
• 20 ounces white almond bark (can substitute chocolate chips or melting wafers)
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (oil based)
• 3 ounces crushed peppermint
• 1½ teaspoons sea salt flakes

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper for easy removal and cleanup.
2. Step 2: Melt the light cocoa candy melts using a double boiler or microwave, stirring continuously until smooth and fully melted.
3. Step 3: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared cookie sheet and spread it evenly until smooth. Let it partially set at room temperature for a few minutes to prevent separation when adding the next layer.
4. Step 4: Melt the white almond bark in a double boiler or microwave, stirring continuously. Once melted, stir in the peppermint extract.
5. Step 5: Spread the white chocolate mixture evenly over the partially set dark chocolate layer.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle crushed peppermint and sea salt flakes evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Allow the bark to fully set at room temperature or in the refrigerator before cutting into pieces.

Tips & Variations

• Use high-quality candy melts or good melting chocolate for the best flavor and smooth texture.
• Try substituting crushed candy canes if peppermint isn’t available.
• For a stronger peppermint flavor, add a little more peppermint extract, but avoid overdoing it as it can become overpowering.
• Sprinkle nuts like crushed almonds or pistachios for added crunch and flavor variation.

Storage

Store the peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Keep it away from heat and humidity. To re-crisp slightly after refrigeration, let the bark sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of candy melts?

Yes, regular chocolate chips can be used as a substitute, but candy melts are designed to melt smoothly and hold shape better. If using chips, melting gently and stirring often helps prevent seizing.

What is the best way to crush the peppermint?

Place peppermint candies in a zip-top bag and gently crush them using a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan for evenly sized pieces that add both texture and flavor.

Salted Peppermint Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 70 reviews

This Salted Peppermint Bark is a festive, sweet-and-salty treat combining smooth layers of rich milk chocolate and creamy white chocolate infused with refreshing peppermint and topped with crushed peppermint candies and sea salt flakes. Perfect for holiday gifting or indulging during the winter season.

• Author: Lena
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including setting time)
• Yield: Approximately 24 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Melting
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Layer

• 24 ounces light cocoa candy melts (or substitute chocolate chips)

White Chocolate Layer

• 20 ounces white almond bark (or substitute chocolate chips or melting wafers)
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract (oil based)

Toppings

• 3 ounces crushed peppermint candies
• 1½ teaspoons sea salt flakes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Surface: Line a cookie sheet with parchment or wax paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bark.
2. Melt the Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the light cocoa candy melts, stirring continuously until smooth and fully melted, which usually takes about five minutes on the stove or less in the microwave.
3. Spread First Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared cookie sheet and spread it evenly until smooth. Allow it to partially set at room temperature for a few minutes; this prevents the layers from separating.
4. Melt the White Chocolate: Melt the white almond bark in a double boiler or microwave, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth consistency. Stir in the peppermint extract to infuse the chocolate with a refreshing flavor.
5. Spread White Chocolate Layer: Evenly spread the melted white chocolate mixture on top of the partially set dark chocolate layer.
6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies and sea salt flakes evenly over the white chocolate layer to create a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
7. Set and Serve: Allow the bark to fully set at room temperature or in the refrigerator until firm. Once set, cut into pieces and enjoy or package for gifting.

Notes

• Using a double boiler helps prevent the chocolate from burning, but microwave melting is a faster alternative—just stir frequently.
• Ensure peppermint extract is oil based to avoid seizing the chocolate.
• For a smoother cut, chill the bark in the fridge before slicing.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated in warmer climates.
• Try substituting dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate for different flavor profiles.

Keywords: peppermint bark, holiday dessert, peppermint candy, chocolate bark, salted chocolate, festive treat, peppermint extract