How to Make Peppermint Bark (2024)

FAQs

Why didn't my peppermint bark stick together? ›

The palm oil can prevent the two layers from sticking together. Be sure to let the bark chill until it's completely set. If you try to break it before the layers are totally firm and bonded together, it can come apart.

Peppermint bark is a chocolate confection. Generally it consists of peppermint candy pieces, such as candy canes, in white chocolate on top of dark chocolate, but peppermint bark can refer to any chocolate with peppermint candy pieces in it. It is especially popular around the Christmas season.

Peppermint bark is a holiday treat made with two types of chocolate—either semisweet or dark and white—and chopped candy canes. Williams-Sonoma is basically famous for theirs at this point, and for good reason—it's delicious.

Tips for Making the Best Peppermint Bark

You can also pick up the baking pan and tip it to help the chocolate slide around. Why are my layers separating? You may have chilled the layers for too long. Only refrigerate the bottom and middle layer for 10–15 minutes before spreading the next layer on top.

Why is my peppermint bark sticky? Peppermint bark can get sticky in the fridge or freezer.

Does peppermint bark go bad? Yes, peppermint bark will go bad if not stored properly and/or consumed within a few weeks. It's very important that you store the peppermint bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Peppermint oil is the pure essential oil derived from peppermint leaves. Peppermint extract is a mixture of peppermint essential oils and alcohol. Peppermint oil is quite strong, so you need to dilute it for most uses. The oil is about four times as strong as the extract.

While some of the proposed benefits of peppermint oil come from anecdotal evidence, research suggests peppermint oil may be beneficial for IBS and other digestive conditions as well as pain relief. Peppermint oil is generally safe, but it can be toxic when taken in very large doses.

In a past Reddit thread, one user said, “The Kirkland brand peppermint bark in the bakery is absolutely fire… way better than the individually wrapped Ghirardelli peppermint bark.” Others said it's “the best part of the holidays!” We have to agree with the positive reviews.

Like most chocolates, peppermint bark is best stored in a tightly sealed container in a dark cool place. I prefer to keep it out of the freezer and store at room temperature. Peppermint bark should last about 2 weeks making it perfect for gifting!

Is Williams Sonoma peppermint bark good? ›

It's chocolatey, crisp, crunchy, and super festive. Peppermint bark also makes for a great gift, especially if you splurge on a tin of Williams Sonoma's beloved bark. For 25 years, the kitchen supply store has sold its signature recipe in decorative tins around the holidays.

Don't let chocolate come in contact with water or steam, which cause it to seize. (Peppermint extract is made with alcohol so even though it's liquid, it won't seize). Let bark sit at room temperature for few minutes before slicing/breaking to prevent layers from separating.