The Story & Intro

There’s something magical about making Red Velvet Peppermint Bark during the holidays. Every year, when December arrives, my kitchen in Crete turns into a swirl of chocolate, peppermint, and a little chaos in the best way! I still remember the first time I tried combining red velvet flavor with peppermint bark. I wanted something festive, beautiful, and a little different from the classic versions. When that glossy red layer set on top of the creamy white chocolate, I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Hi, I’m Marilyn, and cooking has been a part of my life since childhood. Growing up on the beautiful island of Crete, I learned from my grandmother how to fill our home with warmth through food. My kitchen isn’t always perfect there’s usually chocolate dripping somewhere it shouldn’t but the fun is in the memories we create. That’s exactly how this Red Velvet Peppermint Bark recipe came to life, full of flavor, color, and a festive spirit that brings people together.

I love making treats that are simple yet impressive, and this Red Velvet Peppermint Bark is the perfect example. It has that deep cocoa flavor everyone loves, the refreshing crunch of peppermint, and the eye-catching red hue that instantly says “holiday.” Whether you’re preparing gifts, hosting a holiday party, or just craving something sweet, this bark is guaranteed to bring smiles.

What I adore most about this treat is how creative you can get with it. You can swirl the layers for a marble effect, add crushed candy canes, or even sprinkle in cookies for extra crunch. But no matter how you personalize it, the bold red velvet flavor and peppermint sparkle always shine through. Even if you’re new to making bark, don’t worry this recipe is incredibly beginner-friendly. If my younger self could whip up chocolate creations in my grandmother’s tiny kitchen in Crete, you can absolutely nail this too.

Cooking, for me, is about more than just food it’s about sharing stories and creating memories. This Red Velvet Peppermint Bark is one of those recipes that makes your home feel more festive, more joyful, and full of delicious little moments worth remembering.

Why You’ll Love This Red Velvet Peppermint Bark

• It’s stunningly festive and perfect for gifting
• Uses simple ingredients you can find anywhere
• Ideal for beginner and experienced cooks
• Quick no baking required!
• A beautiful twist on classic peppermint bark

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Red Velvet Layer

• 2 cups red candy melts (or white chocolate with red gel coloring)
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the White Chocolate Peppermint Layer

• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract

For Topping

• ½–1 cup crushed candy canes
• Optional: mini chocolate chips, sprinkles

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Smooth it out so the chocolate spreads easily.

2. Make the Red Velvet Base

Melt the red candy melts (or white chocolate + red coloring) using a double boiler or microwave in 20-second intervals.
Stir in cocoa powder, vanilla, and vegetable oil until smooth.

Pour onto the baking sheet and spread into an even rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Let it set slightly about 10–15 minutes.

3. Make the Peppermint Layer

Melt the white chocolate the same way.
Stir in peppermint extract.

Gently pour the white chocolate over the red velvet layer. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.

4. Add the Festive Toppings

While the top layer is still warm, sprinkle crushed candy canes and any other toppings you love.

5. Let It Set

Place the tray in the refrigerator for about 20–25 minutes, or until completely hard.

6. Break Into Pieces

Once set, remove from the fridge and use your hands or a knife to break it into bark-style pieces.

Serving Suggestions

• Add pieces to holiday dessert boards
• Use as edible gifts wrapped in clear bags
• Serve with hot chocolate or peppermint mocha
• Add chunks into vanilla ice cream
• Use as garnishes for cupcakes or cakes

Recipe Notes

• Make sure the first layer is slightly set but not fully hard before adding the second this helps the layers stick together.
• Use gel food coloring if you’re starting with white chocolate.
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.
• Avoid storing near heat white chocolate softens quickly.

Conclusion

This Red Velvet Peppermint Bark is everything a holiday treat should be festive, flavorful, and fun to make. It brings together two delicious worlds: the rich, cocoa-kissed charm of red velvet and the bright, refreshing sparkle of peppermint. Whether you’re gifting it, serving it, or simply making it for your own cozy moment, this recipe is all about sharing joy.

Cooking is about more than just chocolate and candy canes it’s about the memories created in the process. And I hope this recipe brings a little holiday magic to your kitchen, just as it does to mine here in Crete.

🎄 Red Velvet Peppermint Bark Recipe Card 🎄

⏱️ Time

• Prep: 15 minutes
• Chill: 20 minutes
• Total: 35 minutes

🥣 Ingredients

• 2 cups red candy melts
• 2 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups white chocolate chips
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Melt candy melts; mix with cocoa, vanilla, and oil.
2. Spread on a parchment-lined tray.
3. Melt white chocolate; mix with peppermint.
4. Pour over red layer.
5. Add crushed candy canes.
6. Chill, break, and enjoy!

📝 Notes

• Don’t let the layers fully harden before stacking.
• Store in airtight container.
• Avoid heat exposure.

🍫 Nutrition (approx. per piece)

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 20g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 1g