Peppermint Bark is a delicious holiday go-to. Now imagine a version that’s still super festive and full of chocolatey-peppermint goodness, but for only a fraction of the calories, sugar and saturated fat. Consider this creation your holiday dream come true.

This bark is perfect for gifting, bringing to festive gatherings, or saving a little stash just for yourself. It’s incredibly easy to make with just three simple ingredients: chocolate chips, peppermint extract, and crispy brown rice cereal. For an extra touch of holiday cheer, I like to sprinkle on some crushed candy canes to make it over-the-top merry and marvelous.

It’s so good, it’s guaranteed to land on your “nice” list every year!

Try my Soft Baked Chocolate Cherry Oatmeal Cookies.

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3-Ingredient Chocolate Peppermint Bark

Peppermint Bark is a delicious holiday go-to. Now imagine a version that’s still super festive and full of chocolatey-peppermint goodness, but for only a fraction of the calories, sugar and saturated fat.
Yield: 16 pieces
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Refrigerate Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients
 

  • 2 cups dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 cups crispy brown rice cereal, not “puffed” rice cereal
  • 1 to 2 small drops of peppermint extract
  • 2 tablespoons crushed candy canes, about 2 to 3 mini candy canes, optional
  • Optional toppings: chopped nuts, coarse sea salt, granola
Ingredient Details to Know
*This recipe can be made vegan/dairy-free by choosing dairy-free chocolate chips and making sure the candy canes are vegan. Brown rice cereal can be gluten-free by choosing a certified gluten-free brand, and most candy canes are gluten-free but that would be something to double-check. Happy baking!

Instructions
 

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
  • Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or saucepan on the stovetop over low heat. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave by heating for 15 to 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and velvety.
  • Add 1 drop peppermint extract to melted chocolate and mix well (taste and add a second small drop if you would like a stronger peppermint flavor).  Add the cereal into the melted chocolate and mix thoroughly.
  • Spread the mixture on the prepared baking sheet, sprinkle optional crushed candy cane pieces evenly on top and place baking sheet into the fridge or freezer for at least 30 minutes. Once it’s cool, cut it into bars or break it into irregular pieces and place them on a festive serving tray.

Notes

• If you decide to follow my lead and add crushed candy canes, add 10 calories per serving.
Storage:
• Transfer into a storage bag and stash in the fridge or freezer for future treats. They’ll last in the fridge for up to one week, and in the freezer for up to one month.

Nutrition Information per serving

Calories: 110Carbohydrates: 17gProtein: 1gTotal Fat: 6g— Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g— Saturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 25mgPotassium: 77mgFiber: 1gTotal Sugar: 12g— Natural Sugar: 1g— Added Sugar: 11g
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.
I’m hoping you loved this recipe! If you made it and want to share feedback, I’d be so grateful to hear from you. Please leave a review below or tag @joybauer on Instagram!