There’s nothing like the festive flavors of chocolate and peppermint to get you in the holiday spirit! These Chocolate Peppermint Grahams are quick to make, beautifully festive, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re looking for a simple yet impressive addition to your holiday dessert table or a thoughtful homemade gift, these treats check all the boxes. Plus, they require minimal ingredients and are ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
- 12 graham cracker squares, broken into rectangles
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
- ½ cup crushed candy canes or peppermint candies
- White chocolate chips (optional, for drizzling)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Add Peppermint Flavor
- Stir in the peppermint extract, making sure it’s well incorporated. This adds that refreshing, cool minty flavor that makes these treats extra special.
Step 4: Dip the Graham Crackers
- Dip each graham cracker rectangle into the melted chocolate, coating them halfway or fully, depending on your preference. Let any excess chocolate drip off.
Step 5: Add Crushed Candy Canes
- Place the dipped graham crackers on the prepared baking sheet and sprinkle them with crushed candy canes while the chocolate is still wet. This not only adds color but also provides a crunchy texture.
Step 6: Drizzle with White Chocolate (Optional)
- If desired, melt the white chocolate chips in a separate bowl, then use a spoon to drizzle over the grahams for a decorative touch.
Step 7: Let the Chocolate Set
- Allow the graham crackers to set at room temperature, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process. Once the chocolate is firm, they’re ready to enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving Suggestions: Serve these festive grahams on a holiday dessert platter, wrap them up in cellophane bags for a homemade gift, or enjoy them with a hot cup of cocoa.
- Storage: Store any leftover grahams in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. Avoid refrigerating them after they’ve set, as this can cause the chocolate to “bloom” and lose its smooth texture.
Helpful Notes
- Use Quality Chocolate: Good quality chocolate chips will melt better and taste richer, enhancing the overall flavor of your grahams.
- Crush Candies Efficiently: If you don’t have crushed candy canes, place whole candy canes in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or mallet.
- Experiment with Dips: Try dipping just half of the graham cracker for a contrasting look, or go all in and dip the whole cracker!
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: Use a double boiler to melt chocolate for a smoother texture if you’re not in a hurry. This helps prevent any burning and makes for a shinier finish.
- Mary Berry: Add a little coconut oil to the chocolate while melting for a glossy finish. This also makes dipping easier and the chocolate more manageable.
- Jacques Torres: Temper the chocolate (slowly bring it to a specific temperature range) to give it a beautiful shine and snap when it sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate?
Yes! Milk chocolate will make these grahams sweeter and a bit creamier. Choose your preferred chocolate based on taste.
2. How can I make these treats vegan?
Simply use dairy-free chocolate chips and check that your graham crackers are vegan. There are many vegan graham crackers available now!
3. What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can skip the extract if you don’t have it on hand. The crushed candy canes will still give a peppermint flavor, though it will be milder.
4. How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
Work with small batches of chocolate at a time and keep it over a warm pot of water to maintain its melted state if necessary.
5. Can I use other types of crackers?
Yes, you can substitute graham crackers with Ritz crackers, saltines, or even vanilla wafers for different flavors and textures.
6. Are there alternatives to crushed candy canes?
Yes, you can use crushed peppermint candies, peppermint bark, or even festive sprinkles for a fun twist.
7. How can I make these grahams extra festive?
Try adding edible glitter or holiday-themed sprinkles along with the crushed candy canes to really make them sparkle!
8. What’s the best way to melt chocolate without a microwave?
You can use a double boiler by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring until the chocolate melts.
9. Can I freeze these chocolate-dipped grahams?
It’s not recommended, as freezing can cause the chocolate to develop a white coating (bloom). If you must, wrap them tightly and store for no longer than a month.
10. How do I keep the graham crackers from getting soggy?
Make sure the graham crackers are fully coated in chocolate to seal out moisture and prevent them from becoming soft over time.
With this easy and delightful recipe, you’ll be ready to spread some holiday cheer in no time. These Chocolate Peppermint Grahams are sure to be a hit, whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, packing them up as gifts, or just enjoying them by the fire.