This marbled peppermint bark is a holiday favorite that takes just three ingredients and about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick, festive, and makes a wonderful homemade gift.
Peppermint Bark with White Chocolate
Now that the season is here, peppermint and chocolate pair perfectly for festive treats. This marbled peppermint bark layers rich dark chocolate with creamy white chocolate and finishes with crushed candy canes. It’s simple to make and great for sharing.
Why you’ll love this Christmas bark
- Easy to make. This recipe is fast and straightforward, ideal for a last-minute holiday dessert.
- Fun for kids. Swirling chocolate and sprinkling candy canes is an activity kids enjoy.
- Great for gifting. Package small batches for homemade holiday gifts that friends and family will appreciate.
What is peppermint bark made of?
Traditional peppermint bark is simply: dark chocolate, white chocolate, and crushed peppermint candy canes. You can use milk, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate depending on your preference.
Peppermint bark ingredients
- Dark chocolate: Provides a deep, rich cocoa base.
- White chocolate: Adds creamy sweetness and a smooth texture.
- Peppermint candy canes: Crushed for a minty crunch and festive look.
*Full ingredient amounts and the recipe card are below
How to make peppermint bark
Step 1
Melt the dark chocolate and white chocolate in separate bowls using a double-boiler or the microwave. If using a microwave, heat in 20–30 second intervals and stir until smooth to avoid burning.
Step 2
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Spread the dark chocolate evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness. Drop dollops of the white chocolate over the dark layer.
Step 3
Use a knife, skewer, or toothpick to gently swirl the white chocolate into the dark chocolate to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle with crushed candy canes while the chocolate is still warm so the pieces adhere.
Step 4
Refrigerate for at least one hour until fully set. Break into pieces with your hands or cut with a knife to serve.
How to store
This bark stores well at room temperature, in the fridge, or in the freezer.
Counter: Keep pieces in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.
Fridge: For a firmer texture or in warm homes, store sealed in the refrigerator. Remove a few minutes before serving for best flavor.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw briefly on the countertop before serving.
Tips for making this recipe perfectly
- Use quality chocolate. Better chocolate yields better flavor and texture; 70% dark works well for contrast.
- Temper for shine and snap. Proper tempering gives chocolate a glossy finish and a clean snap, though it’s optional for a simple home recipe.
- Cool completely. Let the bark set fully before breaking to keep clean edges and distinct layers.
- Add toppings while warm. Sprinkle crushed candy canes immediately so they adhere to the melted chocolate.
Peppermint Bark FAQ
Yes. Over time the candy canes can stale and chocolate can develop bloom (a cloudy surface). Proper storage and tempering can extend quality.
It tastes like mint and chocolate combined: the dark chocolate brings richness, white chocolate adds creaminess, and crushed candy canes provide a minty crunch.
No—store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Refrigeration is optional for warmer climates or firmer texture.
Use good quality chocolate. Many prefer 70% dark or semi-sweet for balance against the sweetness of the white chocolate and candy canes.
Traditional peppermint-flavored candy canes are ideal. Use red-and-white or red-green-white varieties based on your aesthetic preference.
Yes—mix and match dark, milk, or white chocolate to suit your taste.
Try these peppermint recipes next!
- Vegan Mocha Peppermint Donuts
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate
- Chocolate Peppermint Pudding
If you make this marbled peppermint bark, please leave a comment or rating to share how it turned out. Enjoy and happy baking!
Marbled Peppermint Bark
- Author: Jessica Hoffman
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Melt
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peppermint bark with three ingredients is a quick, festive holiday treat.
Ingredients
- 12 oz 70% dark chocolate
- 6 oz white chocolate
- 2 large candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Melt dark and white chocolate separately using a double boiler or microwave in short intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Line a large baking pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Pour and spread the dark chocolate into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
- Drop spoonfuls of white chocolate across the dark layer.
- Swirl with a toothpick for a marbled look, then sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top.
- Refrigerate until fully set, about 1 hour.
- Break or cut into pieces to serve.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor. Store in a sealed container at room temperature or in the fridge.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 143
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g