It’s the most wonderful time of the year – holiday season! And what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a delicious array of peppermint bark-inspired treats? Williams Sonoma’s iconic peppermint bark recipe has been a holiday tradition for many years, and we’re excited to share 18 creative recipes that put this classic treat in a whole new light. From decadent desserts like cheesecakes and brownies to sweet snacks like cookies and popcorn, there’s something here for everyone. In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of peppermint bark, sharing our favorite festive recipes that are sure to become new holiday traditions in your household.
Classic Williams Sonoma Peppermint Bark
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday gatherings with this classic peppermint bark recipe from Williams Sonoma. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be creating delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) dark chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (120g) crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and salt.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Sprinkle the crushed candy canes or peppermint candies evenly over the top of the white chocolate.
6. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the top of the white chocolate and candy canes.
8. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on melting time)
White Chocolate Peppermint Bark with Crushed Candy Canes
This festive treat combines the richness of white chocolate with the brightness of peppermint and the crunch of crushed candy canes. Perfect for holiday gift-giving or snacking.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup (120g) crushed candy canes (about 4-6 candy canes)
• 1 tablespoon peppermint extract
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted butter and peppermint extract until well combined.
4. Pour the white chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. Immediately sprinkle the crushed candy canes over the top of the chocolate.
6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
7. Break into pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (plus cooling time)
Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark with Sea Salt
Transform your holiday season with this rich and refreshing treat. Crunchy sea salt adds a delightful textural contrast to the velvety dark chocolate and invigorating peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (120g) white chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract and sea salt.
4. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet.
5. If using, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of the chocolate.
6. Allow the mixture to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
7. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 15-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
8. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer.
Cooking Time: None (setting time)
Peppermint Bark Cheesecake
This Peppermint Bark Cheesecake is a unique and delicious dessert that combines the richness of cheesecake with the coolness of peppermint. Perfect for the holiday season, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and confectioners’ sugar.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
6. Melt white chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cheesecake.
7. Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate
Get cozy with this festive hot chocolate recipe, infused with the refreshing flavors of peppermint and rich chocolate. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a holiday party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint bark pieces
– Whipped cream and additional crushed candy canes for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until simmering.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with crushed candy canes or peppermint bark pieces. If desired, whip heavy cream and spoon on top.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Peppermint Bark Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these refreshing Peppermint Bark Cookies! Crisp on the outside, chewy on the inside, and infused with a cool peppermint flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint candies for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Peppermint Bark Fudge
Brighten up your holiday season with this refreshing twist on classic fudge. This Peppermint Bark Fudge recipe combines the perfect balance of sweet and pepperminty flavors, topped with crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 12 ounces (340g) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Crushed candy canes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in peppermint extract and vanilla extract.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Melt semisweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
6. Spread melted chocolate over cooled fudge layer and sprinkle with crushed candy canes.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (fudge cooking time) + refrigeration time
Peppermint Bark Brownies
These fudgy brownies are infused with the sweetness of peppermint and topped with a crunchy peppermint bark, perfect for a festive treat or a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 and 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, plus more for greasing
– 2 cups sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (or peppermint candies)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in cocoa powder, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add to the saucepan mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Spread melted chocolate over cooled brownies, followed by crushed candy canes. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peppermint Bark Ice Cream
This refreshing ice cream recipe combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate to create a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp pure peppermint extract
– 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark (chopped)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the peppermint extract to the mixture and whisk until combined.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the bowl from the refrigerator and stir in the crushed peppermint candies or peppermint bark until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Once the ice cream is almost fully churned, add the softened butter and continue to churn until fully incorporated.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including churning time)
Peppermint Bark Cupcakes
These moist and flavorful cupcakes are infused with the essence of peppermint bark, perfect for a festive treat or a sweet surprise any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Crushed peppermint bark (about 1 cup)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and peppermint extract.
4. Add milk and whisk until combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar and topping with crushed peppermint bark.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Peppermint Bark Pretzel Bites
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your snack game with these easy-to-make Peppermint Bark Pretzel Bites. Crunchy pretzels, rich chocolate, and refreshing peppermint come together in a delightful treat perfect for parties or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 bag of soft pretzels
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (peppermint bark)
– 1 tablespoon shortening (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place pretzels on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Melt white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Dip each pretzel into the melted white chocolate, coating about half of the pretzel.
5. Immediately sprinkle crushed peppermint bark onto the wet chocolate before it hardens.
6. Place pretzels on the prepared baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including chilling time)
Peppermint Bark Popcorn
Transform plain popcorn into a festive treat with the refreshing flavors of peppermint bark. This sweet and crunchy snack is perfect for holiday gatherings or movie nights.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup popcorn kernels
– 1/4 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pop the popcorn kernels according to package instructions.
2. Melt the white chocolate chips and butter in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
3. Add the peppermint extract and stir to combine.
4. Pour the melted white chocolate mixture over the popped popcorn and toss until evenly coated.
5. If desired, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for added festivity.
6. Let the mixture cool and harden completely (about 30 minutes).
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe requires no cooking beyond popping the popcorn.
Peppermint Bark Pancakes
Start your day with a refreshing twist on classic pancakes, featuring the sweet and invigorating flavors of peppermint bark.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or peppermint bark for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the peppermint extract to the wet ingredients and whisk until combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with crushed candy canes or peppermint bark sprinkled on top, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes for a batch of 6-8 pancakes.
Peppermint Bark Milkshake
Experience the thrill of a classic movie theater treat with this refreshing Peppermint Bark Milkshake. Crunchy peppermint bark and creamy ice cream come together for a holiday season delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 scoops of vanilla ice cream
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint bark (crushed candy canes or peppermint-flavored chocolate)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– Whipped cream and additional crushed peppermint bark for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ice cream, peppermint bark, butter, and peppermint extract. Blend until smooth.
2. Add milk and blend until well combined.
3. Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream and additional crushed peppermint bark, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Bark Milkshake!
Peppermint Bark Truffles
Elevate your holiday gatherings with these creamy, crunchy, and refreshing peppermint bark truffles. With only a few ingredients, you’ll be able to create these festive treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/2 cup crushed candy canes (about 6-8 candies)
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add confectioners’ sugar and peppermint extract; mix until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in crushed candy canes.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form truffles. Roll each truffle between your hands to shape.
7. Dip the top of each truffle into melted white chocolate and place on parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + refrigeration time
Peppermint Bark Pie
This Peppermint Bark Pie is a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of peppermint and chocolate with a crunchy, buttery crust. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup crushed candy canes (optional)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined. Press into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and peppermint extract. Pour into crust.
4. If using, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top of filling.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until set.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Drizzle over pie.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to treat your taste buds with a refreshing twist on the classic Rice Krispie treat. These peppermint bark Rice Krispie treats are perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 tablespoons (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 12 tablespoons marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint bark chips
– Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the marshmallows and stir until completely melted and smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal and stir until well coated.
5. Fold in the crushed candy canes or peppermint bark chips.
6. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Allow to cool and harden completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes (including cooling time)
Peppermint Bark Chocolate Fondue
Elevate your fondue game with this sweet and refreshing treat, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. This Peppermint Bark Chocolate Fondue combines the richness of dark chocolate with the invigorating zing of peppermint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– Crushed candy canes or chopped peppermint bark for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, butter, and peppermint extract until smooth.
3. Transfer to a fondue pot or a small ceramic bowl set over a candle warmer (optional).
4. Serve immediately with your favorite dippers, such as marshmallows, strawberries, or graham crackers.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these delicious and festive recipes from Williams Sonoma! This collection of 18 mouth-watering treats features peppermint bark as the star ingredient, incorporated into everything from classic cookies to decadent cheesecakes. From sweet and tangy hot chocolate to crunchy pretzel bites, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece or a quick snack to satisfy your cravings, these Williams Sonoma peppermint bark recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday gatherings.
