Milk Chocolate Peppermint Bark Is a Perfect Treat for the Holiday Season

One of my absolute favorite treats of the holiday season is peppermint bark.  I can't remember exactly when I first discovered it, but I've been enjoying it for years and years.  There's just something about that smooth and rich chocolate combined with zippy peppermint.  It's a dessert that will surely make your belly smile.

Peppermint bark is a great gift to give friends and family for Christmas, and it's so easy to make too.  You can give it in a nice seasonal tin for a gift that'll rank high on their list.

You'll need two 12 ounce packages of milk chocolate chips, as well as the same amount of white chocolate chips.  Two teaspoons of peppermint extract and 8 crushed candy canes are also essential.

Line a 12x18 inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil.  Melt the milk chocolate in a microwave-safe glass or ceramic bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each melting, for 1 to 5 minutes (depending on your microwave.) Do not overheat or chocolate will scorch.  Stir in the peppermint extract.  Spread the chocolate evenly in the prepared pan, chill until set, about 30 minutes.  

Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe glass bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after eau melting, for 1 to 5 minutes.  Stir in 1/4 cup of the crushed candy canes, and then spread the white chocolate mixture evenly over the milk chocolate.  Sprinkle the remaining candy cane pieces evenly over the white chocolate layer.  Chill until set, about 1 hour.  Break into small pieces to serve.