Indulge your sweet tooth this season with a delightful twist on a classic treat: Homemade White Chocolate MM Peppermint Candy Bars! These creamy, dreamy bars combine the rich flavor of white chocolate with the refreshing crunch of peppermint, making them the perfect festive snack or holiday gift. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a batch of 16 irresistible bars that will leave your friends and family begging for more. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress with this easy-to-follow recipe that’s sure to become a seasonal favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 2 cups white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies
- 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your workspace. Gather all your ingredients: 2 cups of white chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies, 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Also, have a 9x9 inch baking dish ready, lined with parchment paper for easy removal of the candy bars.
- In a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl, combine the 2 cups of white chocolate chips and the 1/4 cup of sweetened condensed milk. This mixture will give the bars a creamy texture.
- Microwave the mixture on medium power for about 30 seconds. Remove the bowl and stir the mixture. Repeat this process in 15-second intervals until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat, as white chocolate can seize up easily.
- Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, stir in the 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavor of your candy bars.
- Next, fold in the 1/2 cup of crushed peppermint candies. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Reserve a small amount of crushed candies for topping the bars later.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved crushed peppermint candies over the top for added decoration and flavor.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes, or until the candy bars are set and firm to the touch.
- Once set, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator. Use the parchment paper to lift the candy slab out of the dish. Place it on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, cut the slab into 16 equal bars. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner edges.
- Store the homemade white chocolate peppermint candy bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on your preference for firmness. Enjoy your delicious homemade treat!
Tips
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality white chocolate chips for a smoother and richer flavor. Avoid generic brands, as they may not melt as well.
- Crushing Peppermint: For a more intense peppermint flavor, consider using candy canes instead of store-bought crushed peppermint candies. Just crush them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin for a fun activity!
- Microwave Caution: When melting the white chocolate, be sure to stir frequently and check every 15 seconds to prevent overheating. If the chocolate seizes, you can try adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil to smooth it out.
- Chilling Time: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for the full 15 minutes to ensure they set properly. If you’re in a hurry, you can place them in the freezer for about 5-10 minutes instead.
- Presentation Matters: For a beautiful presentation, consider drizzling some melted chocolate over the top before sprinkling the crushed peppermint. This adds an extra touch of elegance to your candy bars.
- Storage Tips: Store your candy bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them; for a softer bite, keep them at room temperature.
- Perfect Cuts: To achieve clean cuts when slicing the bars, use a hot knife (run it under hot water and then dry it) to make the process smoother. Enjoy making these delightful treats and watch them disappear in no time!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 5mg