peppermint bark

As I had mentioned in an earlier post in December, we decided to do a "made or found" Christmas theme, meaning you can't spend money on gifts; it either has to be something you already have (a prized possession you think your sister would LOVE). Or something handmade. I have two ideas for that; one which I won't share, since I want it to be a surprise for my sisters on Christmas, and the other, is this really simple candy recipe. It takes maybe twenty minutes to make and is so festive and delicious. I found some pinecones outside and dried them over the last two weeks, knowing I would find some use for them, picked up some clear plastic baggies, and simple tags.

Peppermint Bark 

Ingredients

• Crushed candy canes, to yield 1 cup
• 2 pounds white chocolate (or whatever chocolate you like). I used semi sweet, & white. Using Nestle chocolate chips is the simplest way. 
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Directions

Place candy canes in a plastic bag and hammer into 1/4-inch chunks or smaller. Melt the chocolate in a double boiler. Combine candy cane chunks with chocolate. Pour mixture onto a cookie sheet layered with parchment or waxed paper and place in the refrigerator for 45 minutes or until firm. Remove from cookie sheet and break into pieces (like peanut brittle.)