Peppermint Bark Oreos

These Peppermint Bark Oreos are a delightful holiday treat that your family will love. Coated in creamy white chocolate and topped with crunchy candy cane pieces, they are perfect for Christmas gatherings, gift-giving, or enjoying at home. The combination of flavors makes these Oreos a standout dessert that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can create a festive treat that anyone can enjoy.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of rich white chocolate and peppermint adds a refreshing twist to classic Oreos.
• Perfect for Gifting: These treats make excellent homemade gifts for friends and family during the holiday season.
• Versatile Treat: Great for Christmas parties, cookie exchanges, or just as a sweet snack at home.
• Fun to Decorate: Kids will love helping sprinkle the crushed candy canes on top of the dipped Oreos.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Double boiler
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Spatula
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Double boiler: This tool helps melt chocolate evenly without burning it, ensuring a smooth coating for your Oreos.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy surface for cooling your dipped cookies, it allows for easy transfer in and out of the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Oreos

• 16 oreos

For the Chocolate Coating

• 8 ounces Ghiradelli white chocolate wafers

For the Topping

• 1-2 candy canes, crushed up

How to Make Peppermint Bark Oreos

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Select Oreos that don’t have any cracks or broken pieces. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

Melt the white chocolate wafers in a double boiler over low heat.
1. Once halfway melted, remove from heat but continue stirring until completely smooth.
2. If the chocolate seizes up, let it cool for 5 minutes before using.

Step 3: Dip the Oreos

1. Dip each Oreo into the melted white chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Use a spatula to cover all sides and top of each Oreo.
3. Lift each Oreo with a fork and tap gently on the bowl’s side to remove excess chocolate.

Step 4: Add Candy Cane Topping

1. Place each dipped Oreo on the prepared parchment paper.
2. Immediately sprinkle with crushed candy cane pieces, pressing lightly so they adhere.
3. Repeat this process until all Oreos are covered.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Transfer your baking sheet to the fridge and chill for about 10 minutes until set. Enjoy your delicious Peppermint Bark Oreos!

How to Serve Peppermint Bark Oreos

These Peppermint Bark Oreos are not only delightful on their own but can also be served in various creative ways to enhance any holiday gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to make your treat extra special.

Festive Platter

• Arrange the dipped Oreos on a beautiful platter, garnished with additional crushed candy canes for a pop of color and texture.

Hot Chocolate Pairing

• Serve alongside a warm cup of hot chocolate. The sweetness of the Oreos complements the rich chocolate flavor perfectly.

Gift-Worthy Packaging

• Place individual Peppermint Bark Oreos in clear bags tied with festive ribbons as homemade gifts for friends and family.

Dessert Bar

• Include them in a dessert bar during holiday parties, allowing guests to mix and match with other treats like brownies or cupcakes.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two Peppermint Bark Oreos to sandwich a scoop of peppermint or vanilla ice cream for a delicious twist.

How to Perfect Peppermint Bark Oreos

Perfecting your Peppermint Bark Oreos is easy with just a few helpful tips. Keep these in mind for a flawless finish.

• Choose quality chocolate: Using high-quality white chocolate wafers will give your Oreos a smooth and rich coating.
• Crush candy canes finely: For an even sprinkle effect, crush candy canes into small pieces, ensuring they stick well to the chocolate.
• Chill properly: Allow the dipped Oreos to chill completely in the fridge so that the chocolate firms up and holds its shape.
• Avoid overheating: When melting the chocolate, keep the heat low to prevent it from seizing or becoming too thick.
• Work quickly: Dip and sprinkle each Oreo promptly before the chocolate sets to achieve an even coating with candy cane pieces.

Best Side Dishes for Peppermint Bark Oreos

To complement these sweet treats, consider serving them alongside some delightful side dishes. Here are some ideas:

1. Peppermint Hot Cocoa
   A rich and creamy hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and crushed peppermint for an indulgent drink pairing.

2. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels
   Sweet and salty pretzels coated in dark or white chocolate make for a great contrast alongside the sweet Oreos.

3. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the dessert.

4. Cheese Board
   Include mild cheeses, nuts, and dried fruits on a cheese board for an elegant addition that complements the sweetness.

5. Mini Cupcakes
   Offer mini cupcakes in flavors like vanilla or red velvet to create a delightful dessert spread along with your Peppermint Bark Oreos.

6. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and warmth, creating an enjoyable snacking option that pairs nicely with sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes will make your Peppermint Bark Oreos even more delightful. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using quality chocolate: Using low-quality white chocolate can lead to a less tasty result. Always opt for high-quality chocolate wafers for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill the Oreos after coating them, they may not set properly and could become messy. Make sure to refrigerate them for at least 10 minutes.
• Overheating the chocolate: Melting the chocolate at too high a temperature can cause it to seize. Always use low heat and stir frequently to keep it smooth.
• Ignoring the candy cane pieces: Forgetting to sprinkle crushed candy canes immediately after dipping will prevent them from sticking. Be sure to add them while the chocolate is still wet.
• Using broken Oreos: Starting with damaged cookies will ruin their appearance and make them difficult to dip. Select only whole Oreos for a perfect finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• They can last up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing Peppermint Bark Oreos

• Place in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Peppermint Bark Oreos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes until slightly soft.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting the chocolate too much.
• Stovetop: Use a double boiler on low heat, placing the cookies on top just long enough to soften without melting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Peppermint Bark Oreos:

Can I use dark chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Yes, dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor, though it will alter the appearance and taste of your Peppermint Bark Oreos.

How do I crush candy canes effectively?

Place candy canes in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin or mallet to crush them into small pieces without making dust.

How should I store leftover Peppermint Bark Oreos?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for optimal freshness.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add different toppings or use flavored chocolate wafers for unique variations on your Peppermint Bark Oreos.

Final Thoughts

These Peppermint Bark Oreos are not only festive but also versatile. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or as homemade gifts. Feel free to customize with different toppings or chocolates according to your taste!