Holiday Cheer

While visiting my parents for the holidays I decided to try a new holiday recipe -- peppermint bark.  I love peppermint and chocolate so I thought this would be the perfect dessert.  I made a batch and it was devoured by visiting relatives..... when I left my parents house there was not a single piece left.  I'd say this was a success!  I look forward to making it next year. 

Peppermint Bark with a Dark Chocolate Center

20 ounces white chocolate, coarsely chopped, divided
30 peppermint candies, crushed, divided
10 ounces dark chocolate, coarsely chopped
6 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon peppermint extract

1. Line a 9x12 baking pan with aluminom foil or parchment paper.

2. Melt half of the white chocolate in the top of a double boiler.  Stir frequently and scrape down the sides to make sure nothing sticks.  Spread white chocolate into prepared pan.  Sprinkle with the "dust" of the crushed peppermints.  Let chill in fridge for about 15 minutes.

3. Melt dark chocolate, heavy cream, and peppermint extract in the top of a double boiler.  Stir frequently until just melted.  Quicky pour over chilled white chocolate layer.  Spread evenly.  Chill in fridge until firm.  (I did mine for about 25 minutes).

4. Melt remaining white chocolate in the top of a double boiler.  Stir frequently and scrape down the sides.  Spread white chocolate evenly over chilled dark chocolate layer. Sprinkle larger bits of peppermint on top of melted white chocolate.  Chill in fridge for 15 minutes. 

5. Break into small pieces.

Bon appetit!

Crush the peppermints in the wrapper.

First layer of white chocolate and peppermint dusting.

All put together in the pan