Peppermint Bark Perfection: Elevate Your Holiday Baking with Walmart’s Bettergoods
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than with the quintessential holiday treat: peppermint bark? This year, Walmart’s new Bettergoods line offers a surprisingly delicious and affordable option that’s perfect for incorporating into a variety of festive recipes. Forget spending a fortune on gourmet brands; Bettergoods peppermint bark delivers that classic peppermint-chocolate crunch at a fraction of the cost. This article will guide you through creative and delectable recipes featuring Walmart’s Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, transforming it into everything from elegant desserts to easy snacks.
## Why Bettergoods Peppermint Bark?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Walmart’s Bettergoods Peppermint Bark is a game-changer. Here’s what makes it stand out:
* **Affordability:** This is the biggest draw! You get a generous amount of peppermint bark for a price that won’t break the bank, making it ideal for baking and sharing.
* **Quality:** Don’t let the price fool you. Bettergoods uses decent quality chocolate and real peppermint oil, resulting in a satisfying and authentic flavor.
* **Availability:** Being a Walmart product, it’s easily accessible to most people. No need to hunt down specialty stores.
* **Versatility:** The classic flavor profile makes it incredibly versatile. It pairs well with cakes, cookies, brownies, ice cream, and so much more. It can be easily broken into pieces for toppings, melted for sauces, or even pulsed into a powder for flavoring.
## Recipe 1: Peppermint Bark Brownie Bites
These brownie bites are rich, fudgy, and bursting with peppermint flavor. They’re perfect for holiday parties, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (18.3 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional, for extra peppermint punch)
* 1 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely chopped
* Optional: Additional chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a mini muffin tin with paper liners. This recipe yields approximately 24 brownie bites.
2. **Prepare Brownie Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix with the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until well combined.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Add the eggs, water (or milk, if the brownie mix calls for it), and vanilla extract. If using, add the peppermint extract. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies.
4. **Fold in Peppermint Bark:** Gently fold in the chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, reserving some for topping, if desired. Ensure the peppermint bark is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. **Fill Muffin Tins:** Fill each mini muffin cup about 2/3 full with the brownie batter. A small cookie scoop works well for this.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
7. **Cool and Garnish:** Let the brownie bites cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, sprinkle the tops with additional chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark while they are still slightly warm so it adheres.
8. **Serve:** Enjoy these delicious Peppermint Bark Brownie Bites warm or at room temperature. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Fudgy vs. Cakey:** For fudgier brownie bites, slightly underbake them. For cakeier brownies, bake them a bit longer.
* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet) to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
* **Espresso Powder:** A teaspoon of espresso powder added to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor.
* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free brownie mix to make this recipe gluten-free.
## Recipe 2: Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats
Take your classic Rice Krispie Treats to the next level with the addition of peppermint bark. These are easy to make and perfect for a quick and festive treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 10 ounces (about 40 large) marshmallows
* 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely chopped, divided
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray. You can also line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
2. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted. Remove from heat.
3. **Stir in Vanilla and Cereal:** Stir in the vanilla extract. Then, add the Rice Krispies cereal and 3/4 cup of the chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark. Mix until the cereal is evenly coated with the marshmallow mixture. Work quickly, as the mixture will start to harden as it cools.
4. **Press into Pan:** Transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and gently press it down evenly. You can use a buttered spatula or your hands (lightly buttered or wetted) to prevent sticking.
5. **Top with Peppermint Bark:** Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark over the top of the treats. Gently press the peppermint bark into the treats so that it adheres.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let the treats cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or rectangles. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
7. **Serve:** Enjoy your Peppermint Bark Rice Krispie Treats! They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Softer Treats:** Use fresh marshmallows for the softest treats. Stale marshmallows can result in harder treats.
* **Brown Butter:** Brown the butter before adding the marshmallows for a richer, nuttier flavor.
* **Marshmallow Brands:** Different brands of marshmallows can have varying consistencies. Jet-Puffed are a reliable choice.
* **Salt:** A pinch of salt added to the marshmallow mixture enhances the sweetness.
* **Chocolate Drizzle:** Drizzle melted white chocolate or dark chocolate over the top of the treats for an extra touch of indulgence.
## Recipe 3: Peppermint Bark Chocolate Chip Cookies
Add a festive twist to your classic chocolate chip cookies with the addition of peppermint bark. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with holiday cheer.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 large eggs
* 2 cups chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
* 1 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients:** Beat in the vanilla extract and then add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Fold in Chocolate Chips and Peppermint Bark:** Fold in the chocolate chips and the chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. **Serve:** Enjoy these Peppermint Bark Chocolate Chip Cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa. They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
* **Brown Butter Cookies:** Brown the butter before creaming it with the sugars for a richer, nuttier flavor in your cookies.
* **Sea Salt:** Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking to enhance the sweetness and chocolate flavor.
* **Different Chocolate:** Use different types of chocolate chips, such as white chocolate or peanut butter chips, for a unique flavor combination.
* **Nuts:** Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a nutty crunch.
## Recipe 4: Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate
Warm up on a cold winter day with this decadent Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate. It’s a comforting and festive drink that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups milk (whole milk or 2% milk recommended for richness)
* 4 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
* 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
* 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
* 1/2 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
* Whipped cream, for topping (optional)
* Mini marshmallows, for topping (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Milk, Chocolate, and Cocoa Powder:** In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, chopped semi-sweet chocolate, and cocoa powder. Whisk together until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
2. **Add Sugar and Peppermint Extract:** Add the granulated sugar and peppermint extract. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
3. **Heat Gently:** Heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it is hot but not boiling. Be careful not to scald the milk.
4. **Stir in Peppermint Bark:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the finely chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark. Stir until the peppermint bark is melted and evenly distributed throughout the hot chocolate.
5. **Serve:** Pour the Peppermint Bark Hot Chocolate into mugs. Top with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, and additional chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, if desired.
6. **Enjoy:** Sip and savor this warm and comforting holiday drink!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will result in a richer and more flavorful hot chocolate.
* **Dark Chocolate:** Substitute dark chocolate for semi-sweet chocolate for a more intense chocolate flavor.
* **Vegan Hot Chocolate:** Use plant-based milk (such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk) and vegan chocolate to make this recipe vegan.
* **Spiked Hot Chocolate:** Add a shot of peppermint schnapps or Irish cream liqueur for an adult version of this hot chocolate.
* **Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate:** For a larger batch, combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and heat on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
## Recipe 5: Peppermint Bark Bark (The Obvious Choice!)
While we’re using peppermint bark in other recipes, let’s not forget the classic itself! This recipe elevates the store-bought version with a few simple additions.
**Ingredients:**
* 16 ounces high-quality dark chocolate, chopped
* 8 ounces high-quality white chocolate, chopped
* 1 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely crushed
* Optional: Flaky sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. **Melt Dark Chocolate:** Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
3. **Spread Dark Chocolate:** Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. **Chill Dark Chocolate:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dark chocolate is firm but not completely hard.
5. **Melt White Chocolate:** While the dark chocolate is chilling, melt the white chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
6. **Spread White Chocolate:** Pour the melted white chocolate over the firm dark chocolate layer and spread it into an even layer.
7. **Sprinkle with Peppermint Bark:** Immediately sprinkle the crushed Bettergoods Peppermint Bark over the white chocolate layer. Gently press the peppermint bark into the white chocolate so that it adheres.
8. **Chill:** Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the bark is completely firm.
9. **Break into Pieces:** Once the bark is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and break it into irregular pieces. You can use a knife to score the bark before chilling to make it easier to break.
10. **Serve:** Enjoy your homemade Peppermint Bark! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use High-Quality Chocolate:** Using high-quality chocolate will result in a richer and more flavorful bark.
* **Different Chocolate:** Use different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, for a different flavor combination.
* **Add Nuts:** Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the white chocolate layer along with the peppermint bark.
* **Flaky Sea Salt:** Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the bark for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
* **Candy Canes:** Add crushed candy canes along with the peppermint bark for an extra festive touch.
## Recipe 6: Peppermint Bark Yogurt Parfaits
For a lighter and healthier holiday treat, try these Peppermint Bark Yogurt Parfaits. They’re a delicious and festive way to start your day or enjoy as a dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (or vanilla yogurt)
* 1/2 cup granola
* 1/2 cup fresh berries (such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries)
* 1/2 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely chopped
* Optional: Honey or maple syrup, for drizzling
**Instructions:**
1. **Assemble Parfaits:** In individual glasses or jars, layer the Greek yogurt, granola, fresh berries, and chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark. Repeat the layers as desired.
2. **Drizzle with Sweetener:** If desired, drizzle the parfaits with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
3. **Chill:** Chill the parfaits in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Serve:** Enjoy these Peppermint Bark Yogurt Parfaits as a breakfast, snack, or dessert!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Yogurt:** Use different types of yogurt, such as flavored yogurt or coconut yogurt, for a different flavor profile.
* **Add Nuts and Seeds:** Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or seeds, such as chia seeds or flax seeds, for added nutrition and crunch.
* **Different Fruit:** Use different types of fruit, such as bananas, peaches, or mangoes, depending on your preference.
* **Granola Variations:** Experiment with different granola flavors, such as chocolate granola or cinnamon granola.
* **Vegan Parfaits:** Use plant-based yogurt and granola to make these parfaits vegan.
## Recipe 7: Peppermint Bark Popcorn
This sweet and salty Peppermint Bark Popcorn is a festive and addictive snack that’s perfect for holiday movie nights.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn (air-popped or stovetop popcorn)
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup light corn syrup
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, coarsely chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (air-popped or stovetop). Remove any unpopped kernels.
2. **Prepare Caramel Sauce:** In a medium saucepan, combine the butter, sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Bring to a boil and cook for 3-4 minutes, without stirring, until the mixture turns a light golden brown color.
3. **Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Pour Caramel over Popcorn:** Pour the caramel sauce over the popped popcorn and toss gently to coat evenly. Be careful not to break the popcorn.
5. **Spread on Baking Sheet:** Spread the popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
6. **Sprinkle with Peppermint Bark:** Sprinkle the chopped Bettergoods Peppermint Bark over the popcorn. Gently press the peppermint bark into the popcorn so that it adheres.
7. **Cool:** Let the popcorn cool completely on the baking sheet. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
8. **Break into Pieces:** Once the popcorn is cool, break it into pieces and store it in an airtight container.
9. **Serve:** Enjoy this sweet and salty Peppermint Bark Popcorn!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Microwave Caramel:** You can also make the caramel sauce in the microwave. Combine all the ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved. Then, microwave for another 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture turns a light golden brown color.
* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the popcorn for added flavor and crunch.
* **Pretzel Pieces:** Add pretzel pieces to the popcorn for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
* **Sprinkles:** Sprinkle holiday-themed sprinkles over the popcorn along with the peppermint bark for an extra festive touch.
* **Drizzle with Chocolate:** Drizzle melted chocolate over the popcorn for an extra touch of indulgence.
## Recipe 8: Peppermint Bark Martini
This Peppermint Bark Martini is a festive and sophisticated cocktail that’s perfect for holiday parties or a special occasion.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 ounces vodka (or peppermint vodka)
* 1 ounce white chocolate liqueur
* 1/2 ounce creme de menthe
* 1/2 ounce half-and-half or cream
* Ice cubes
* Walmart Bettergoods Peppermint Bark, crushed, for rimming the glass
* Optional: Candy cane, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Glass:** Crush the Bettergoods Peppermint Bark into fine pieces. Moisten the rim of a martini glass with water or simple syrup. Dip the rim of the glass into the crushed peppermint bark to coat it evenly.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, white chocolate liqueur, creme de menthe, and half-and-half or cream. Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
3. **Shake Well:** Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously for about 15-20 seconds, or until well chilled.
4. **Strain and Serve:** Strain the martini into the prepared martini glass.
5. **Garnish:** Garnish with a candy cane, if desired.
6. **Enjoy:** Sip and savor this festive Peppermint Bark Martini!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Peppermint Vodka:** Using peppermint vodka will enhance the peppermint flavor of the martini.
* **Chocolate Vodka:** Substitute chocolate vodka for regular vodka for a richer chocolate flavor.
* **Different Liqueurs:** Experiment with different liqueurs, such as Godiva chocolate liqueur or Bailey’s Irish Cream, for a different flavor profile.
* **Rim with Sugar:** If you don’t have peppermint bark, you can rim the glass with sugar instead.
* **Non-Alcoholic Version:** For a non-alcoholic version, combine white chocolate syrup, peppermint extract, and milk or cream. Shake with ice and strain into a glass rimmed with crushed peppermint.
## Storing Your Peppermint Bark Creations
Most of these recipes can be stored in airtight containers at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on the ingredients. Brownies, cookies, and Rice Krispie Treats are best stored at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. Hot chocolate mix can be stored in an airtight container for several weeks. The Peppermint Bark itself should be stored in the refrigerator to prevent the chocolate from melting.
## Conclusion
Walmart’s Bettergoods Peppermint Bark is a versatile and affordable ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and festive holiday treats. From brownie bites to martinis, the possibilities are endless. So, grab a bag of Bettergoods Peppermint Bark and get creative in the kitchen this holiday season! These recipes are sure to impress your family and friends and add a touch of holiday magic to your celebrations.
Happy baking (and cocktail-making)!