Yesterday, I gave all my coworkers little treat bags full of homemade peppermint bark.  They’re very special to me so what better way to thank them for always being so amazing than with layers of peppermint-infused chocolate??  Nothing is better, I tell you, nothing.

I tied off the bags with baker’s twine and added these DIY gift tags.  Aren’t they the most precious things?  I’ve been using these tags for EVERYTHING this holiday season.  I even affixed one to Kyle’s hot chocolate the other night just to tell him that it was “homemade with love” so he better appreciate it.

Back to the peppermint bark!  It’s super easy to make and so much more special when it’s homemade.  PS don’t let anyone tell you that making it yourself is cheaper than buying a box of it at William’s Sonoma.  Chocolate chips are expensive, yo!  But making it at home is more fun and thoughtful.  I promise.

Peppermint Bark

1 bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips (I used Ghirardelli)
1 bag of white chocolate chips (again used Ghirardelli)
1/2 tsp peppermint extract, divided
About 25 candy canes, crushed into pieces
A little canola oil (if needed)

Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper.  Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in intervals of 30 seconds at 50% power.  Make sure you stir the chocolate after every interval until it’s fully melted and smooth.  Stir in 1/4 tsp of peppermint extract.  Pour the chocolate onto the parchment-lined cookie sheet (it will not fill the entire sheet FYI) and spread evenly.  Sprinkle half of the crushed candy canes over the chocolate.  Refrigerate and let it harden for about 10-20 minutes.  Melt the white chocolate in the same fashion.  You may need to add a bit of canola oil because white chocolate seems to be a thicker consistency.  Stir in 1/4 tsp peppermint extract.  Pour the white chocolate directly over the semi-sweet chocolate and spread even.  Sprinkle the remaining crushed candy canes and refrigerate until completely hardened.  To serve, break into small pieces.

Add an adorable tag and give it to all your favorite people.