Peppermint Chocolate Candy Bars 🍫🌿

These Peppermint Chocolate Candy Bars combine rich chocolate with a refreshing burst of peppermint, creating a festive treat that's perfect for the holiday season—or any time you need a delicious pick-me-up! Easy to make and delightful to share, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike. Pair them with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate indulgence! ☕️❄️

Ingredients

For the chocolate base

• 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup of butter
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the peppermint layer

• 1 1/2 cups of powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup of unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or your preferred milk)
• 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract
• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of pink sea salt (optional)

For the topping

• 1 cup of dark chocolate chips
• Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes for garnish
• A sprinkle of flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the chocolate base:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the chocolate chips and butter over low heat, stirring until smooth.
   • Remove from heat and whisk in the cocoa powder, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.

🍫 Ensure the heat is low to prevent the chocolate from scorching. Stir constantly to maintain a uniform texture!

2. Set up the pan:

   • Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

3. Spread the chocolate layer:

   • Pour the melted chocolate mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Let it cool for about 10 minutes.

4. Make the peppermint layer:

   • In a medium bowl, combine powdered sugar, almond milk, peppermint extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth, adding a bit more milk if necessary to reach a spreadable consistency.

🌿 The peppermint extract can vary in strength, so taste as you go to find the right level of minty freshness for you!

5. Layer the peppermint filling:

   • Spread the peppermint mixture over the cooled chocolate base, smoothing it out evenly.

6. Prepare the topping:

   • In a clean saucepan, melt the dark chocolate chips over low heat until fully melted and smooth. Pour the melted dark chocolate over the peppermint layer, spreading it evenly.

7. Garnish:

   • Sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top, along with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.

8. Chill:

   • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set firm.

9. Slice and serve:

   • Once set, carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

❄️ For best results, serve chilled and store any leftovers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

Variations

• Add some crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) or mini marshmallows into the chocolate base for additional texture.
• Vegan option: Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a delicious vegan treat!
• Different flavors: Experiment with different extracts! Almond extract can be a remarkable substitute for a more nuanced flavor profile.
• Mini options: Pour the layers into a muffin tin lined with paper cups for individual-sized candy bars!

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Peppermint Chocolate Candy Bars! 🍬✨