Peppermint Bark

I love peppermint bark. I received this as a gift last year and I have been waiting for this time of year to buy some more. It is so delicious, but since, I've been rather busy, when I finally found the chance to buy it, to my disappointment the peppermint bark from William Sonoma was sold out.

I decided I wouldn't put my craving on hold till next year by trying to make my own version. I looked at the ingredients on the box which basically had 4 things, dark chocolate, white chocolate, mint bits, and peppermint oil. How hard can that be?

Peppermint Bark
10oz of dark chocolate (semi-sweet or bitter sweet)
10oz of white chocolate
5 candy canes
1/2 tsp. of peppermint extract

After some researching, many suggest using Baker's chocolate for the creamy and smooth texture. I used candy canes as my "mint bits" and peppermint extract instead of "peppermint oil." I placed the candy canes (about 5) in a plastic bag and cracked them. I like the pieces a little larger so I didn't go crazy.

I melted about 10 oz of semi-sweet (you can use bitter sweet as well) in a double boiler and poured it into a 10x10 foil lined baking pan. The foil allows you to pull the chocolate out later. I cooled it in the refrigerator until hardened.

Next, I melted the white chocolate in a double boiler. Once melted, I added 1/2 tsp of peppermint oil to the white chocolate and poured it directly over the dark chocolate. I read that when choosing white chocolate, make sure there is cocoa butter in the ingredient list. I didn't find that listed anywhere other than Baker's chocolate.

Immediately, top the white chocolate with the crushed candy canes and refrigerate until hardened. Next, break or chop peppermint bark into pieces and enjoy.

This is SO good. My kids had no problem devouring every last bit.