We are officially in holiday mode!
If you're struggling to find an easy dessert or a special hostess gift, I wanted to share a simple recipe that you can make that is sure to be a crowd pleaser! I've been making Peppermint Bark for YEARS and this is by far one of my favorite ways.
Ingredients:
1 bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips (I use either Ghiradelli or Guittard)
1 bag of white chocolate chips (I use either Ghiradelli or Guittard)
Peppermint Flavor (I use Simply Organic)
14 round peppermint candies
Directions:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate in the microwave - follow the package instructions, and be sure not to burn your chocolate because there's no resurrecting it after that (trust me;) Once melted all the way through, pour 1 tsp of peppermint flavor into the chocolate and stir to combine. Pour the chocolate on the parchment paper, spreading evenly to make a thin (but not too thin) layer. Put the baking sheet with the parchment paper in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to set up and harden.
While you wait, unwrap the peppermints and place them in a plastic bag. Break them up using the back of a wooden spoon or something strong enough to shatter them into super fine pieces (I use a meat tenderizer). Note: do not smash these candies directly on your countertop. Please use a cutting board as a surface protection. If you need any suggestions for while you wait for that chocolate to harden, I got you! Listen to your favorite music or podcast, put on a face mask, read, journal or meditate:)
When the semi-sweet chocolate has hardened, take it out of the freezer. Melt the bag of white chocolate in the microwave, again being careful not to burn it. Add 1 tsp of peppermint flavor to the melted white chocolate, stir to combine, and then pour over the semi-sweet chocolate. Using a silicone spatula, spread evenly over the semi sweet chocolate. In order to keep them as two distinct layers, you'll need to work fairly quickly so that the warm white chocolate doesn't melt the semi-sweet, which will result in a marbling effect (it will still taste great though, so if that happens do not start over)! Sprinkle the broken peppermint candies all over the white chocolate, and with clean hands press down gently making sure the candies are secure in the chocolate.
Put back into the freezer to harden for a couple of hours (and see "waiting" instructions above ;). When done, you can use a knife to cut into desired sizes and shapes, or just break it apart with your hands for a more rustic, homemade look (which is what I like to do).
Whether you're hosting a gathering or attending as a guest, I hope this recipe comes in handy and eases any last minute stress around thinking "what should I make/bring?"
Although you might be feeling all the last minute holiday chaos creeping in right now, I offer you this: When you find yourself overwhelmed, pause for a minute, take a few deep breaths and show gratitude for what you already have and what you're able to give. Always, remember the true reason for this season.
Happy Hanukkah to those who are celebrating right now, and a wishing an early, very Merry Christmas to those who are anxiously awaiting!!
Lots of love - Ali
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