National Peppermint Bark Day Date in the current year: December 1, 2025

Peppermint bark is a confection consisting of chocolate and peppermint candy pieces. The classic version consists of a layer of dark or semisweet chocolate topped with a layer of white chocolate and sprinkled with crushed peppermint candy. However, any chocolate with peppermint candy pieces in it can be called peppermint bark. The “bark” in its name refers to its resemblance to the rough surface of tree bark.

The origins of peppermint bark are unclear, but printed mentions of the candy date back to 1966. It may have been invented by someone looking to use up broken candy canes, but we’ll never know for sure. Another theory claims that peppermint bark was inspired by mendiants, traditional French confections composed of chocolate disks studded with dried fruits and nuts. Mendiants are usually made and eaten around Christmas.

However, it is known who has helped make peppermint bark the iconic holiday treat it is today: Williams Sonoma. The company introduced its version in 1998, and it became an instant hit. The exact recipe for Williams Sonoma’s peppermint bark is a closely guarded secret, but the company has disclosed that it uses Guittard chocolate flavored with triple-distilled peppermint oil.

Since then, other companies have started selling peppermint bark seasonally, including Dove and Ghirardelli. Additionally, many smaller chocolatiers, gourmet candy producers, and home bakers produce their versions of peppermint bark, sometimes putting their own twist on the recipe. They also create peppermint bark-inspired treats and desserts, such as peppermint bark cheesecake and pretzels.

Today, peppermint bark is strongly associated with Christmas and the winter holiday season. Its simple but festive appearance, complemented by a delicious combo of rich chocolate and fresh mint, evokes a sense of nostalgia and holiday cheer. The confection is very easy to make at home and requires only a few ingredients: dark or semisweet chocolate, white chocolate, peppermint candies, and peppermint extract if you want a stronger flavor.

To make peppermint bark, melt the dark or semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl over gently simmering water until smooth. Then, spread it in a thin layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let it set until firm but not hard. Melt the white chocolate in the same way. Stir in crushed peppermint candies or candy canes, along with a small amount of peppermint extract, if desired. Then, spread the white layer over the dark one before it fully hardens. Sprinkle a little more crushed peppermint on top and press lightly so that it sticks. Let the whole sheet cool until it is completely firm and then break it into pieces.

National Peppermint Bark Day was initiated by Williams Sonoma in 2021 and has been celebrated every year since, marking the unofficial start of the Christmas season. There are many ways to celebrate this holiday. You can indulge in peppermint bark, give some as gifts, make your own, and spread the word on social media using the hashtag #NationalPeppermintBarkDay.