3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark




Homemade 3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark stacked on a white marble tray, topped with crushed peppermint candies, with a soft white towel and a bowl of peppermint pieces in the background.
Homemade 3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark layered with semi-sweet chocolate, creamy white chocolate, and finely crushed peppermint for the perfect festive treat.

3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark is one of the easiest yet most festive treats you can make during the holiday season. With smooth semi-sweet chocolate on the bottom and creamy white chocolate on top, this classic two-layer bark delivers the perfect balance of richness and refreshing peppermint crunch. Because it uses just three simple ingredients, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for gifting, entertaining, or adding sparkle to a dessert tray.

Although peppermint bark feels timeless now, it became popular in the mid-20th century when chocolatiers began pairing crushed peppermint with layered chocolate for a bright, wintry twist. Since then, it has become a beloved holiday tradition known for its clean layers, crisp snap, and irresistible flavor.

This homemade version sets beautifully, breaks into rustic pieces, and tastes far better than anything store-bought. As it chills and firms within minutes, it fits effortlessly into busy December schedules while still looking elegant and handcrafted. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always a crowd-pleaser.


Homemade 3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark stacked on a white marble tray, topped with crushed peppermint candies, with a soft white towel and a bowl of peppermint pieces in the background.
Homemade 3-Ingredient Peppermint Bark layered with semi-sweet chocolate, creamy white chocolate, and finely crushed peppermint for the perfect festive treat.

Recipe Yield: 12 servings

INGREDIENTS

12 oz white chocolate, chopped
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
½ cup finely crushed peppermint candies

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate:
Place the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Microwave in 20–30 second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.

2. Spread the first layer:
Line a baking sheet with parchment. Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate onto the sheet and spread into an even rectangle about ¼-inch thick. Tap the pan gently to smooth it out. Chill for 10 minutes, just until slightly firm.

3. Melt the white chocolate:
Warm the white chocolate using the same microwave method, stirring until silky and smooth. Allow it to cool for 3 minutes so the warm chocolate doesn’t melt the first layer.

4. Add the top layer:
Pour the white chocolate over the semi-sweet layer, spreading evenly from edge to edge. Immediately sprinkle the finely crushed peppermint candies over the top.

5. Set and break:
Refrigerate for 20–25 minutes, or until completely firm. Lift the bark from the tray and break into rustic pieces.


Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

  • Cool the white chocolate slightly: Allowing the white chocolate to rest for a few minutes after melting helps it thicken just enough so it layers beautifully without blending. Smooth, defined layers make the bark look handcrafted and polished.
  • Use finely crushed peppermint: Smaller pieces distribute mint flavor evenly while clinging nicely to the warm chocolate, giving each bite a refreshing finish and clean crunch.
  • Chill only until set: Cooling the bark just until firm prevents moisture from forming on top, which keeps the chocolate glossy, crisp, and easy to break into perfect pieces.