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Peppermint Bark Popcorn

Peppermint Bark Popcorn

Peppermint Bark Popcorn is a festive, crunchy, and sweet holiday snack combining classic peppermint bark flavors with light, crisp popcorn. This quick and easy treat features popcorn coated in melted white and dark chocolate flavored with peppermint extract and sprinkled with crushed candy canes, making it perfect for cozy nights, party favors, or holiday gifting.

Ingredients

Scale

Popcorn Base

  • 8 cups popped popcorn (from about 1/2 cup popcorn kernels) or 8 cups plain pre-popped popcorn (no butter or seasoning)

Chocolate Coating

  • 1 cup white chocolate chips
  • 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil or coconut oil (divided, for melting chocolates)

Flavor & Toppings

  • 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • 1/2 cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
  • Sea salt, a pinch (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Popcorn: Pop your popcorn kernels fresh using an air popper or stovetop method, or use plain, pre-popped popcorn with no added butter or seasoning to ensure each kernel is perfectly coated.
  2. Melt the Chocolates: In separate microwave-safe bowls, gently melt the white chocolate chips and dark chocolate chips each with about half teaspoon of vegetable or coconut oil, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth, silky, and glossy.
  3. Add Peppermint Flavor: Stir a few drops (about 1/2 teaspoon) of peppermint extract into the melted white chocolate for a refreshing, festive mint flavor.
  4. Combine Popcorn and Chocolate: Spread the popcorn in a large bowl and drizzle with the melted dark chocolate, tossing gently to coat evenly. Then drizzle the peppermint-infused white chocolate over the popcorn to create a marbled effect.
  5. Add Crushed Peppermint: Sprinkle the crushed candy canes generously over the popcorn while the chocolate is still warm and glossy so the peppermint pieces stick well.
  6. Let It Set: Transfer the coated popcorn onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Let it cool and harden at room temperature or chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate is firm and crunchy.

Notes

  • Use fresh, recently popped popcorn to avoid stale kernels.
  • Make sure the popcorn is completely cooled before coating to prevent melting the chocolate prematurely.
  • Add oil sparingly to the chocolate to keep it smooth but not too runny.
  • Crush candy canes finely for better adhesion and enhanced crunch.
  • Toss popcorn gently when mixing the chocolate to keep it fluffy and prevent crushing.

Nutrition

Keywords: Peppermint bark popcorn, holiday snack, festive popcorn, peppermint chocolate popcorn, Christmas treat, easy holiday recipe