Drunken Peppermint Bark Bites

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Drunken Peppermint Bark Bites – Creamy, Boozy, and Sparkling with Holiday Cheer

A grown-up twist on a holiday classic, these white chocolate bark bites are infused with peppermint schnapps and topped with crushed candy canes and edible glitter. They’re festive, fun, and fabulously easy to make.

Introduction: A Holiday Treat with a Kick

The holidays are a time for tradition—but they’re also a time for a little sparkle, a little indulgence, and maybe even a little mischief. Enter: Drunken Peppermint Bark Bites. These bite-sized beauties are everything you love about classic peppermint bark—cool mint, creamy white chocolate, and crunchy candy canes—but with a grown-up twist: a splash of peppermint schnapps.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday cocktail party, putting together edible gifts, or just want something sweet and sassy to nibble on while wrapping presents, these bark bites are the answer. They’re no-bake, quick to make, and endlessly customizable. Plus, they’re so pretty, they’ll steal the show on any dessert table.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these bark bites so irresistible:

Base Ingredients:

  • 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
    This is the creamy foundation of your bark. Choose high-quality white chocolate bars or chips for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
  • 2 tbsp peppermint schnapps
    This is where the “drunken” part comes in. Peppermint schnapps adds a cool, minty flavor and a subtle boozy warmth that elevates the bark from kid-friendly to cocktail-party-ready.
  • ¼ cup crushed candy canes
    These add crunch, color, and that unmistakable peppermint flavor. Crush them yourself for a rustic look or buy pre-crushed for convenience.

Optional Garnish:

  • Extra crushed candy canes
    Sprinkle on top for extra crunch and visual appeal.
  • Edible glitter
    Adds a festive shimmer that makes these bites sparkle like freshly fallen snow.

Optional Add-Ins: Try mini marshmallows, crushed peppermint cookies, or a drizzle of dark chocolate for extra flair.

Equipment Needed

  • Heatproof bowl
  • Saucepan (for double boiler setup)
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Refrigerator
  • Knife or hands for breaking into pieces

Optional: Use silicone molds or mini muffin tins for uniform, shaped bites.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Set up a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

Add 8 oz chopped white chocolate to the bowl.

Stir gently and continuously until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.

Tip: Avoid overheating—white chocolate can seize easily. If you prefer, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring between each.

Step 2: Add the Schnapps

Remove the bowl from heat.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of peppermint schnapps until fully incorporated.

The mixture may loosen slightly—this is normal and will firm up as it chills.

Note: If you want a stronger flavor, you can add up to 1 more tablespoon, but be cautious—too much liquid can affect the texture.

Step 3: Mix in the Candy Canes

Fold in ¼ cup crushed candy canes.

Mix gently to distribute evenly throughout the chocolate.

Tip: For a smoother texture, sift out the fine peppermint dust and use only the larger crushed pieces.

Step 4: Pour and Garnish

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Pour the chocolate mixture onto the sheet and spread it into an even layer about ¼ inch thick.

Sprinkle with:

  • Extra crushed candy canes
  • Edible glitter (if using)

Press gently to help the toppings adhere.

Optional: Use a spoon to create swirls or texture on the surface for a rustic look.

Step 5: Chill and Break

Refrigerate for 1–2 hours, or until the bark is completely firm.

Once set, remove from the fridge and break or cut into bite-sized pieces.

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Yields:

  • 20–24 bites

Presentation Tip: Serve in mini cupcake liners or arrange on a holiday platter with fresh mint leaves and cranberries for color.

Serving Suggestions

These bark bites are perfect for:

  • Holiday parties
  • Edible gift boxes
  • Cocktail hour treats
  • Movie night snacks
  • Snow day indulgences

Pair with:

  • Peppermint martinis
  • Hot cocoa with whipped cream
  • Espresso or Irish coffee
  • Sparkling wine or prosecco

Tip: Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Dark Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before chilling for a beautiful contrast and richer flavor.

Coconut Peppermint Bark

Add shredded coconut to the mix for a tropical twist.

Nutty Crunch

Fold in chopped pistachios, almonds, or pecans for added texture.

Vegan Version

Use dairy-free white chocolate and peppermint extract instead of schnapps.

Cookie Crumble

Add crushed chocolate sandwich cookies or shortbread for a cookies-and-cream vibe.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: These bites can be made up to 1 week in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Bite, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~90
  • Protein: ~1g
  • Carbohydrates: ~10g
  • Fat: ~5g
  • Sugar: ~8g
  • Sodium: ~20mg
  • Fiber: ~0g

These bites are:

  • Creamy and minty
  • Boozy and festive
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for gifting and sharing

Gifting Ideas

These bark bites make fantastic edible gifts. Here’s how to package them:

  • Place in mini cupcake liners and arrange in a festive tin.
  • Wrap in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon and a handwritten tag.
  • Add to a holiday cookie box alongside truffles, fudge, and shortbread.
  • Include a recipe card for a personal touch.

Bonus: Pair with a mini bottle of peppermint schnapps for a cheeky gift set.

Final Thoughts

These Drunken Peppermint Bark Bites are more than just a treat—they’re a celebration of holiday sparkle, grown-up indulgence, and effortless joy. Whether you’re baking for a party, gifting to friends, or sneaking a few for yourself, they’re guaranteed to impress and delight.

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