Cassandra Faragosa of Pink Cart Bakery gives us her recipe for something sweet this season. Peppermint Bark is a delightful mix of indulgent chocolate and the sparkle of peppermint too.
Ingredients:
- Dark Chocolate or Almond Bark
- White Chocolate or Almond Bark
- Peppermint extract
- Toppings of your choice such as crushed candy canes or peppermint candies. You can even make it extra fun by adding mini pretzels or M&Ms!
Directions:
1. Melt the chocolate: Melt the dark or semi-sweet chocolate and spread it into a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Chill: Place the sheet in the refrigerator to let the chocolate set.
3. Melt and flavor white chocolate: Melt the white chocolate and stir in peppermint extract.
4. Layer and top: Spread the peppermint-infused white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Immediately sprinkle the top with crushed candy canes or peppermint candies.
5. Chill again: Refrigerate the bark until it is completely firm.
6. Break into pieces: Once hardened, break the bark into pieces by hand or score it with a knife before breaking for more uniform shapes.
Tips for success
- Use quality chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate will result in a more decadent treat.
- Add a little oil: A small amount of neutral oil, like canola, can be added to the melted chocolate to help prevent the peppermint extract from seizing the chocolate.
- Don't overdo the peppermint: A little peppermint extract goes a long way, so be careful not to add too much.
- Store properly: Store the finished bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks, or refrigerate for longer storage.
'...a delightful mix of indulgent chocolate and the sparkle of peppermint too.'