Peppermint Bark

One of the best parts of my job is that I have access to tons of recipes.  Easy, delicious recipes.  One of the ones I showcased this year was peppermint bark.  It's super easy and quite tasty.  Don't let the idea of bark scare you...it doesn't get any easier than this!

You'll need:

3-4 Candy Canes

1/2 pkg (10 oz) chocolate flavored almond bark or confectionery coating candy melts

1/2 pkg (10oz) vanilla flavored almond bark or confectionery coating melts

1 tsp peppermint extract (I used mint and it was fine)

*You can also buy white candy melts with candy cane pieces in it around Christmas time.  When I use these I don't use the peppermint extract.

1.  Place candy canes in a zip lock and coarsely crush.  You can also put them in a food processor.  Feel free to strain the fine powder for a more professional look.

2.  Line a medium sheet pan with parchment paper.  Have about 1 inch hanging over the sides (it allows you to removing the bark from the pan when it's solid)

3.  Place the chocolate in a microwave safe container and microwave for 1 minute to 1 1/2 minutes.  Stir.  If not completely melted microwave in 30 second intervals until completely melted.  Repeat with white chocolate

4.  To one of the chocolates, add 1 tsp of mint extract

5.  Scoop the melted chocolate onto the sheet pan.  I alternate the colors for a more swirly look.  The chocolate might not spread out on it's own.  I gently shake it side to side and back and forth to get it so spread out.

5. Take a knife or other straight edge and drag it through the chocolate to swirl the chocolate.

6.  Sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top.

7.  Refrigerate until hard.  I usually only need to let it set for about 20 minutes.


8.  Lick the bowls and spoons.  Wash right away cause hard chocolate is no fun to get off stuff!

9.  Break candy into pieces.  Store in airtight containers.

If you would like to try it, you're welcome to come to Christmas Eve service at my church.  That's were this bark will be putting in an appearance!