Chaos Peppermint Chocolate Bars (Print Version)

Layered chocolate with peppermint, marshmallows, and cookies creates easy, playful bars ideal for holidays.

# Components:

→ Cookie Base

01 - 300 grams chocolate sandwich cookies, crushed (approximately 30 cookies)
02 - 75 grams unsalted butter, melted

→ Peppermint Chocolate Layer

03 - 250 grams dark chocolate, chopped
04 - 150 grams milk chocolate, chopped
05 - 5 milliliters peppermint extract

→ Rubble & Topping

06 - 100 grams mini marshmallows
07 - 50 grams peppermint candies or candy canes, crushed
08 - 60 grams white chocolate, melted (for drizzling)
09 - 30 grams additional chocolate sandwich cookies, roughly broken

# Directions:

01 - Line a 20cm x 20cm baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang for easy removal.
02 - Combine the crushed chocolate sandwich cookies and melted butter in a mixing bowl. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create the base. Refrigerate while preparing the next layer.
03 - Melt the dark and milk chocolate together using a double boiler or in short intervals in the microwave, stirring until completely smooth. Incorporate the peppermint extract.
04 - Pour the melted chocolate mixture evenly over the chilled cookie base. Distribute the mini marshmallows, crushed peppermint candies, and broken cookies over the chocolate, gently pressing them into the surface.
05 - Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the toppings in a decorative zigzag pattern.
06 - Refrigerate the bars for a minimum of 2 hours, or until they are completely firm.
07 - Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the slab from the pan. Cut into individual bars before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes of active time with no baking required
  • Perfect for busy holiday seasons when time is precious but impressive treats are necessary
  • Makes a stunning homemade gift that friends will think took hours to create
  • Completely customizable with whatever mix ins you have on hand
  • Kid friendly both to make and enjoy getting little hands involved creates lasting memories
02 -
  • These bars can be made up to 5 days in advance perfect for holiday preparation
  • No special equipment required beyond basic kitchen tools making them accessible for any home cook
  • The refrigeration time is non negotiable for proper setting
  • Perfect for gifting just wrap in parchment and tie with festive ribbon
  • Can be made without peppermint for a year round chocolate treat
03 -
  • Always line your pan with parchment paper extending over the edges for easy removal. This simple step saves significant frustration when it comes time to cut and serve your bars. I learned this lesson the hard way after destroying an entire batch trying to pry them from an unlined pan.
  • For the cleanest cuts warm your knife under hot water and wipe dry between slices. This prevents the chocolate from sticking to the blade and creates professional looking edges. If you find the bars too firm to cut easily let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before attempting to slice.
  • When incorporating peppermint extract start with slightly less than the recipe calls for then taste the chocolate mixture before adding the full amount. Peppermint extracts vary significantly in strength between brands and adding too much can quickly overpower the other flavors.