15-Minute Peppermint Bark

It happens every year, doesn’t it? The calendar fills up, your to-do list grows, and suddenly you need a show-stopping holiday dessert that looks like you spent hours in the kitchen. Friend, I’m here to let you in on a little secret: this incredibly easy Peppermint Bark in 15 Minutes is your new holiday lifesaver. It’s that perfect blend of rich, creamy chocolate and cool, refreshing mint that just screams Christmas. And the best part? It requires zero baking and minimal cleanup, leaving you more time to enjoy the twinkling lights and holiday movies with your crew.

Top Reasons To Make It

Honestly, this recipe is a total workhorse during the busy holiday season. First, it’s incredibly fast. You can whip it up during naptime or right before guests arrive. Second, it’s a huge crowd-pleaser. Kids adore the sweet crunch, and adults appreciate the classic flavor combo. Third, it makes for a gorgeous homemade gift. Tied up in a little cellophane bag with a ribbon, it’s a present straight from the heart. And finally, it clears you from oven duty, which is a major win when you’re juggling a dozen other dishes.

Ingredients

• 16 oz. high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips: The base layer; provides a rich, deep chocolate flavor.
• 16 oz. high-quality white chocolate chips: Creates the gorgeous top layer and carries the peppermint flavor.
• 1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening: Adds a beautiful sheen and helps the chocolate set with a perfect snap.
• 1 tsp pure peppermint extract: For that essential, festive cool mint taste.
• 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies: Gives the bark its classic crunch and holiday look.
• (Optional) A pinch of flaky sea salt: To balance the sweetness and elevate all the flavors.

Instructions

1. Line a standard baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Create a double boiler by filling a saucepan with an inch of water and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring the bottom doesn’t touch the water. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and half of the coconut oil. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Immediately pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4-inch thick. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
4. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to allow the first layer to set. It doesn’t need to be fully hard, just firm enough to support the next layer.
5. Meanwhile, clean and dry your bowl. Repeat the double boiler process with the white chocolate chips and remaining coconut oil, stirring until melted. Remove from heat and immediately stir in the peppermint extract.
6. Take the pan from the fridge. Pour the white chocolate mixture over the set dark chocolate layer and spread it evenly to cover.
7. Working quickly, generously sprinkle the crushed candy canes and the optional flaky sea salt over the top, gently pressing them in so they adhere.
8. Return the pan to the refrigerator for a final 15-20 minutes, or until the bark is completely firm and set.
9. Remove the large sheet of bark from the pan using the parchment paper. Break it into rustic, irregular pieces by hand or cut it into neat squares with a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy!

Quick Tips For Perfect Peppermint Bark

• Keep that water simmering, not boiling! Any steam that gets into your chocolate can cause it to seize up and become grainy.
• For super easy crushing, place your candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and whack them with a rolling pin. So satisfying.
• If you’re in a real hurry, you can use the microwave. Melt the chocolates in separate bowls in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each.
• Taste your peppermint extract first. Some are stronger than others, so you can adjust the amount to your liking.
• Don’t skip the coconut oil. It’s the secret to that professional, snappy texture we all love.
• Have fun with it! This is one of those simple Christmas desserts that’s hard to mess up.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is a wonderful canvas for your own creativity. For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted almonds or pecans between the chocolate layers. Love a little crunch? Stir some crispy rice cereal into the white chocolate before spreading. If you’re making this for someone with dietary restrictions, feel free to use your favorite dairy-free chocolates—they work beautifully. And if peppermint isn’t your thing, swap the extract for orange or almond for a completely different, but equally festive, holiday treat.

Storage & Reheating

Store your finished bark in an airtight container at room temperature in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. You can also keep it in the fridge, but let it come to room temp for about 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture. For longer storage, it freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months. Just layer it between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. No reheating needed! This is a make-ahead champion for all your holiday parties.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

This bark is a star all on its own, placed in a pretty bowl for guests to grab. But it also makes for incredible Christmas food ideas when used as a garnish. Crumble it over a scoop of vanilla ice cream or vegan frozen dessert for an instant, fancy sundae. Serve a piece alongside a warm mug of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy combination. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a big holiday meal or a lovely little treat to set out with other Christmas appetizers. So good.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use milk chocolate instead? Absolutely! Milk chocolate is a sweeter, milder alternative to semi-sweet. Just make sure it’s good quality for the best results.
• Why did my chocolate get cloudy or streaky? This is called “bloom.” It happens if the chocolate was heated too quickly or if the room was humid. It’s still perfectly safe to eat, it just doesn’t look as pretty.
• How far in advance can I make this? This is one of the best make-ahead holiday treats. You can easily make it a week or two before you need it, making it a fantastic option for holiday baking when you’re short on time.
• What are some other easy Christmas desserts? Beyond this bark, I always lean on no-bake treats like rice cereal treats with holiday sprinkles, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or a simple fudge. They’re all fantastic, easy Christmas treats that keep stress levels low.