Indulge in the delightful fusion of rich, velvety chocolate and refreshing peppermint with this Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark! Crafted with care, this festive treat is a true delight for the senses. Savor the juxtaposition of the smooth, melty chocolate and the crisp peppermint crunch, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or simply seeking a cozy, indulgent treat, this Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is sure to satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your face.
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Why You’ll Love This Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark
This Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is not just a delicious dessert – it’s a celebration of the joys of homemade baking. Embrace the comfort and satisfaction of crafting a festive treat from scratch, letting the process unfold with ease and joy. The recipe is designed to be approachable and forgiving, allowing you to trust your instincts and find delight in the imperfections that make each batch truly your own. Indulge in the lush, creamy chocolate and the refreshing, crisp peppermint, creating a harmonious blend that will transport you to a cozy, winter wonderland. This recipe is a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and the joy of sharing homemade creations with loved ones. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or treating yourself to a moment of self-care, this Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is sure to become a cherished tradition.
Ingredients
To craft this Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark, you’ll need a few high-quality, plant-based ingredients. Gather dark chocolate, coconut oil, pure vanilla extract, and crushed peppermint candies or candy canes. These simple, yet flavorful components come together to create a truly indulgent and festive dessert. The rich, velvety chocolate provides a decadent base, while the refreshing peppermint adds a bright, zesty contrast that will delight your senses.
- 1 cup (170g) – Dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) – Coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) – Pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (80g) – Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Ingredient Substitutions
- Chocolate: You can use dairy-free milk chocolate or a combination of dark and milk chocolate for a creamier texture.
- Peppermint: Substitute the crushed peppermint with chopped fresh mint leaves or a touch of peppermint extract for a slightly different flavor profile.
How to Make Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Follow these simple steps to create your own delightful Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark:
Step 1: Prep Work
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and prepping your work surface. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat, ensuring a smooth, even surface for your Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark. Gently crush the peppermint candies or candy canes, either by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and using a rolling pin, or by pulsing them in a food processor. Set the crushed peppermint aside, ready to be incorporated later.
Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a double boiler or a heat-proof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and coconut oil, stirring occasionally until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize. Once the chocolate is fully melted, remove the bowl from the heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract.
Step 3: Final Steps/Assembly
Pour the melted chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint evenly over the top of the chocolate, pressing it in gently to help it adhere.
Step 4: Finishing Touches (if needed)
For an extra festive touch, you can drizzle a small amount of melted white chocolate over the top of the peppermint bark. This will create a beautiful, contrasting pattern and add a touch of holiday cheer.
Once your Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is assembled, transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set. This ensures that the bark will have a crisp, satisfying texture when broken into pieces.
Recipe Variations & Tips
- Creamy Ganache: For an even more indulgent treat, consider adding a layer of creamy vegan ganache to the top of your Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark.
- Flaky Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the peppermint bark can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Milk Chocolate: Switch up the flavor by using milk chocolate or a combination of dark and white chocolate.
- Chopped Nuts: Add a delightful crunch by incorporating chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, into the bark.
Serving & Storage
Serve with: a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or your favorite festive beverage.
Storage: Store the Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheat: No reheating necessary – enjoy this treat straight from the fridge!
Make-Ahead: This Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark can be made in advance, making it a perfect holiday treat to have on hand.
For more cozy serving ideas and creative storage inspiration, check out our Pinterest board
Nutrition Information
This Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a delightful, plant-based treat that offers a range of beneficial nutrients. The dark chocolate provides a rich source of antioxidants, while the coconut oil offers healthy fats. The crushed peppermint adds a refreshing, calorie-free burst of flavor. Enjoy this indulgent dessert in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and savor the comfort and joy it brings to your taste buds.
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbs: 15 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Sodium: 20 mg
Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark
Indulge in this deliciously rich and refreshing Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark. Perfect for the holidays or as a sweet treat any time of year!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces
- Category: 🌿 Plant-Based
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
– 8 oz vegan dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
– 4 oz vegan white chocolate
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies (or candy canes)
– Pinch of sea salt
Instructions
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth.
3. Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate in the same way.
5. Once the white chocolate is melted, stir in the peppermint extract.
6. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer in a zig-zag pattern.
7. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the two chocolates together slightly.
8. Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies and a pinch of sea salt over the top.
9. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until fully set.
10. Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
– Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
– For a fun twist, try adding different toppings like nuts or dried fruit!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan, chocolate, peppermint, dessert
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for dark chocolate, you can certainly substitute it with dairy-free milk chocolate for a creamier, more approachable flavor profile. Keep in mind that milk chocolate may be slightly sweeter, so you may want to adjust the amount of crushed peppermint to balance the sweetness.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
No, you don’t have to use coconut oil in this recipe. You can substitute it with other plant-based oils, such as melted refined coconut oil or vegetable oil. Just keep in mind that the coconut oil helps to create a smooth, glossy texture in the final bark.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure to use certified gluten-free peppermint candies or candy canes.
How do I prevent the peppermint from getting soggy?
To keep the peppermint crisp and crunchy, make sure to sprinkle it over the melted chocolate and press it in gently while the chocolate is still warm and glossy. This helps the peppermint adhere to the surface. Additionally, be sure to chill the bark thoroughly in the refrigerator, as this will help set the chocolate and preserve the peppermint’s texture.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! The Vegan Chocolate Peppermint Bark can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This makes it a perfect holiday treat to have on hand for last-minute gatherings or a cozy, indulgent snack whenever the craving strikes.
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