Microwave Peppermint Bark
A festive, creamy peppermint bark with a crunchy peppermint candy topping, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for peppermint lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb almond bark
- 7 oz peppermint candy ⓘ
Instructions
- Process peppermint candy in a blender or food processor until it is a fine powder and set aside.
- Break almond bark into pieces and place in a large microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave at 50% power, uncovered, for 5 to 6 minutes, until bark pieces are soft.
- Check and stir after 3 minutes.
- Add the powdered peppermint candy to the melted bark and stir well.
- Spread the mixture onto waxed paper to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cool until hardened, possibly placing in the refrigerator.
- Break into pieces and store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother consistency, ensure the almond bark is broken into smaller pieces before melting. If you don’t have almond bark, white chocolate can be a suitable substitute, though it may require slightly different melting times. To enhance the peppermint flavor, consider adding a few drops of peppermint extract along with the powdered candy. Make sure to process the candy finely to achieve an even distribution throughout the bark.
Serving Suggestions
This peppermint bark makes a delightful holiday treat and pairs beautifully with a cup of hot chocolate or a festive Mansion Punch. You can cut it into small squares for gifting or serving at parties. It also makes a great addition to dessert platters alongside cookies or Apple Pie Or Tart, creating a sweet spread for guests to enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peppermint bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. If you freeze it, separate layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. There's no need to reheat the bark; simply enjoy it as is or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Peppermint Bark contains roughly 35 calories, with 2g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (14% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute almond bark with milk chocolate or dark chocolate, but keep in mind that the melting time may vary. Make sure to check the chocolate frequently to prevent overheating. Alternatively, for a vegan version, use dairy-free chocolate chips or bars.
How can I add more flavor to my peppermint bark?
To enhance the flavor, you can mix in some crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture. Additionally, try incorporating a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness, or experiment with different flavored extracts, such as vanilla or almond, to create unique variations.
What can I do with leftover peppermint bark?
Leftover peppermint bark can be chopped and used as a topping for ice cream, yogurt, or oatmeal. You can also melt it down and drizzle it over desserts or use it to make peppermint hot chocolate. It's versatile and can add a festive touch to many other recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).