There’s something magical about the holiday season that brings back a flurry of memories. As snowflakes dance outside, I remember gathering with family around the kitchen, the sweet aroma of chocolate and peppermint filling the air. We would make peppermint sticks, a cherished tradition that always brought warmth and joy. Today, I’ve taken that beloved classic and given it a modern twist, transforming it into a Chocolate Peppermint Stick Delight that’s sure to become a new favorite!

Ingredients

  • 1 cup crushed peppermint candies (approximately 20 candies)
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

Prepare your workspace by gathering all your ingredients and equipment, including a mixing bowl, a microwave-safe bowl, a spatula, and a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Start by melting the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Place them in the microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval until fully melted and smooth.

Once melted, add the heavy cream, sea salt, and peppermint extract to the chocolate. Stir until everything is well combined, creating a luscious chocolate ganache.

Next, fold in half of the crushed peppermint candies into the ganache. This will give your dessert a delightful crunch and burst of peppermint flavor.

Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula. Make sure it’s about 1/2 inch thick for the perfect texture.

Now, melt the white chocolate chips in the same way you did with the semi-sweet chocolate. Once melted, drizzle the white chocolate over the chocolate layer in a zigzag pattern. Use a toothpick or a skewer to swirl the two chocolates together for a beautiful marbled effect.

Sprinkle the remaining crushed peppermint candies generously over the top. This not only adds a festive touch but also gives that extra crunch we all love.

Chill the entire tray in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set.

Once set, remove the chocolate from the refrigerator and cut it into bite-sized squares or rectangles. If you like, dust some unsweetened cocoa powder on top for an elegant finish.

Arrange your Chocolate Peppermint Stick Delights on a festive platter and watch as they become the star of your holiday gatherings. Each bite is a sweet reminder of those cherished moments spent with family, and I promise they will bring a smile to everyone’s face!

Enjoy your creation with loved ones, and let this sweet treat become a part of your own family traditions. Happy baking!