Chocolate peppermint bark is an easy Christmas candy to make!
Made with chocolate graham crackers, vanilla almond bark, and crushed candy canes, this festive holiday treat comes together in about 10 minutes and makes a lovely addition to cookie tins and gift plates.
I made the peppermint bark!!! It was simple and yummy!!!
-Karen
We always include homemade peppermint bark in our cookie tins because it’s simple, classic, and so many people enjoy it during the holidays.
Why You’ll Love It
- Only three main ingredients
- No baking required
- Ready in under 10 minutes of hands-on time
- Easily doubled for larger batches
This peppermint bark is a perfect addition to cookie plates. For more edible holiday gift ideas, consider other no-fuss treats to include with your tins.
Ingredients
See the recipe card below for the full ingredient amounts and instructions.
- 1 box chocolate graham crackers (about 14.4 oz)
- 24 oz vanilla almond bark
- 6 candy canes, crushed
How to make chocolate peppermint bark
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange a single layer of chocolate graham crackers to cover the pan.
- Melt the vanilla almond bark and pour it over the crackers, spreading into an even layer.
- Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the melted chocolate.
- Let the bark set completely, then break or cut into pieces.
How to melt almond bark
Follow the package directions for best results. To speed melting, chop the almond bark into small pieces. Place the pieces in a microwave-safe glass bowl and microwave on 50% power for three minutes, stir, then continue microwaving at 50% power in short intervals, stirring until mostly melted. Stir with a spatula until smooth.
How to crush candy canes
Choose a method based on the texture you want.
For finer pieces that aren’t very crunchy, use a blender or food processor.
For chunkier pieces, place unwrapped candy canes into a zip-top bag, seal it, cover with a towel to contain small bits, and crush with a rolling pin or meat mallet.
Crushing candy canes this way is quick, satisfying, and effective for topping the bark.
How long does peppermint bark take to set
At room temperature, the bark sets in about 2–3 hours. Refrigerating it speeds things up—place the sheet in the fridge and it should set within an hour.
In very cold climates, an unheated garage can also serve as an extra chilling spot if needed.
How to break peppermint bark
When fully set, break the bark into pieces by hand or use a sharp knife to cut it into even squares or shards.
Variations
Chocolate chips. Substitute white chocolate chips for the vanilla almond bark.
Peppermint oil. Add about 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract to the melted chocolate for a stronger mint flavor.
Sprinkles. Top with holiday sprinkles for extra color and festivity.
Skip the candy canes. Omit the candy canes and use peppermint extract instead for a smoother texture with mint flavor.
Tips for Success
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy removal.
Use a blender for fine candy cane pieces or the rolling pin method for chunkier bits.
Sprinkle a bit of extra crushed candy cane on top for a pretty finish.
FAQS
Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
More Christmas treats
- Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Easy Christmas Toffee
- Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
- Christmas Oreo Balls
- Haystack Cookies
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Chocolate Peppermint Bark
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Equipment
- Glass mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Baking sheet
- Silicone baking mat or parchment
Ingredients
- 1 box chocolate graham crackers (14.4 oz)
- 24 oz vanilla almond bark
- 6 candy canes, crushed
Instructions
- Crush the candy canes using a blender, food processor, or place unwrapped candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin while covered with a towel.
- Cover a baking sheet (approximately 10 x 15 inches) with parchment or a silicone mat. Arrange a single layer of chocolate graham crackers to fill the pan.
- Chop the almond bark into smaller pieces. Place in a glass bowl and microwave at 50% power for three minutes, stir, then continue heating at 50% power in short bursts until mostly melted. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the melted almond bark over the graham crackers and spread evenly. If crackers shift, gently press them back together. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top.
- Allow the bark to set (2–3 hours at room temperature or about 1 hour in the fridge). Once firm, break or cut into pieces.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 29 g |
Protein: 1 g |
Fat: 8 g |
Sugar: 21 g
Nutrition Disclosure
All nutritional values are approximate and provided as a courtesy. Changing ingredients or quantities will alter the estimates.
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