Christmas Chocolate Bark with Pretzels and Candy Canes Recipe

Introduction

Christmas Chocolate Bark is a festive and easy treat that combines creamy white and dark chocolate with crunchy pretzels and peppermint candy canes. Perfect for holiday gifting or a sweet snack to share, this bark is as delicious as it is visually appealing.

A white plate stacked with square pieces of peppermint bark, each piece showing three visible layers: a smooth dark brown chocolate base, a thick creamy white chocolate middle layer, and a topping of crushed red peppermint candy and small twisted golden brown pretzels scattered on top. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a green cloth beside it, and two red and white striped candy canes resting next to the plate. In the background, a blurred glass of dark liquid adds depth to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 8 oz white chocolate melting wafers (can substitute bars or chips)
  • 8 oz dark chocolate melting wafers (semi-sweet works too)
  • 1 cup pretzels (mini twists or rods work best)
  • 1 tablespoon crushed candy canes (about 2 standard candy canes)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for the chocolate bark.
  2. Step 2: Melt the dark chocolate wafers in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each until smooth.
  3. Step 3: Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  4. Step 4: Melt the white chocolate wafers using the same method until smooth.
  5. Step 5: Drizzle the white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer and gently swirl them together with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.
  6. Step 6: Sprinkle the pretzels evenly over the chocolate layers, pressing them lightly into the surface.
  7. Step 7: Finish by sprinkling the crushed candy canes over the entire bark.
  8. Step 8: Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until fully set.
  9. Step 9: Once hardened, break the bark into pieces and serve or package as a holiday gift.

Tips & Variations

  • Use your favorite milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter bark.
  • Try adding chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
  • For a smooth melting process, avoid overheating the chocolate by stirring frequently and melting in short intervals.

Storage

Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If refrigerated, allow it to come to room temperature before serving to avoid condensation.

How to Serve

This image shows a stack of square chocolate bark pieces arranged on a white plate. Each piece has three clear layers: a dark chocolate base, a thick white chocolate middle layer, and on top a crunchy orange-brown pretzel piece. Red and white crushed candy bits are sprinkled on the white chocolate layer, adding bright color and texture. The plate sits on a white marbled surface next to two red and white striped candy canes and a green cloth with white leaf patterns. In the blurred background, a dark drink is visible in a clear glass. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular chocolate bars instead of melting wafers?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate bars, but they may require tempering or careful melting to avoid seizing. Melting wafers are designed to melt smoothly and are easier for bark recipes.

How do I prevent the crushed candy canes from getting sticky?

Make sure the bark is fully set and dry before storing. Keeping it in a cool, dry place or the refrigerator will help prevent moisture from making the candy canes sticky.

Print

Christmas Chocolate Bark with Pretzels and Candy Canes Recipe

This festive Christmas Chocolate Bark is a delightful holiday treat featuring a luscious blend of white and dark chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and a refreshing hint of crushed candy canes. Perfect for gift-giving or holiday gatherings, it offers a beautiful contrast of sweet, salty, and minty flavors that celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

  • Author: Bella
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz white chocolate melting wafers (can substitute bars or chips)
  • 8 oz dark chocolate melting wafers (semi-sweet works too)
  • 1 cup pretzels (mini twists or rods work best)
  • 1 tablespoon crushed candy canes (about 2 standard candy canes)

Instructions

  1. Melt the Dark Chocolate: Place the dark chocolate melting wafers in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
  2. Spread Dark Chocolate Layer: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, spread the melted dark chocolate into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick to form the base of the bark.
  3. Chill Dark Chocolate Base: Refrigerate the dark chocolate layer for about 10-15 minutes until mostly set but still slightly tacky to allow the layers to adhere.
  4. Melt the White Chocolate: While the dark chocolate chills, melt the white chocolate wafers in the same manner as the dark chocolate, stirring until smooth.
  5. Swirl White Chocolate: Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the set dark chocolate layer. Use a skewer or toothpick to gently swirl the two chocolates together to create a marbled effect.
  6. Add Pretzels and Candy Canes: Immediately sprinkle the pretzels and crushed candy canes evenly over the chocolate while it is still soft, pressing lightly to secure them.
  7. Final Chill: Return the bark to the refrigerator and chill for another 30 minutes or until completely firm and set.
  8. Break Into Pieces: Once set, remove the bark from the refrigerator and break it into irregular pieces for serving or gifting.

Notes

  • Use good quality chocolate wafers or chips for best melting and flavor results.
  • If desired, substitute crushed candy canes with peppermint extract drops for less crunch.
  • Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
  • For added texture, consider adding chopped nuts or dried cranberries along with the pretzels.

Keywords: Christmas chocolate bark, holiday chocolate recipe, peppermint bark, chocolate and pretzel bark, festive desserts, holiday treats

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