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Chocolate Peppermint Grahams are the go to treat when you need a fast festive snack that feels handmade and special. These candy topped graham crackers pair chocolate and peppermint for a nostalgic holiday bite. They come together so quickly and are the perfect project for kids or anyone who wants to gift something homemade without a baking marathon.
When my girls were little I made these one snowy afternoon to use up extra candy canes and now the tradition has stuck. Every December we line a tray with graham crackers and everyone picks a job chocolate dipper or candy sprinkle captain.
Ingredients
- Milk chocolate melts: give the smooth coating that stays snappy and rich. Choose good quality like Ghirardelli or a similar brand for best taste and easy melting.
- White chocolate melts: add that classic peppermint bark look and extra sweetness. Use real white chocolate not almond bark or white chips that can taste waxy.
- Peppermint candy canes: offer crunch and that unmistakable holiday zing. For color variety try using mini rainbow canes.
- Graham crackers: provide the crisp base that stands up to the chocolate. Choose fresh ones that are not stale or broken.
Step by Step Instructions
- Melt the Milk Chocolate:
- Place the milk chocolate in a microwave safe bowl. Heat for 30 seconds then stir and repeat in 30 second bursts until fully smooth shiny and pourable. Usually this takes about 90 seconds total. Go slow and stir well between intervals so the chocolate does not scorch.
- Dip the First End:
- Take each graham cracker square and dip one end about halfway into the melted milk chocolate. Let the extra drip off. Lay dipped crackers in a single layer on a parchment lined tray to keep them neat and easy to remove later.
- Allow to Set:
- Let the milk chocolate side harden. This takes about five minutes at room temperature or you can pop the tray in the fridge for quicker setting especially if your kitchen is warm.
- Melt the White Chocolate:
- Use a clean microwave safe bowl. Repeat the same melting process with the white chocolate until it is smooth and creamy. White chocolate can overheat quickly so work in short bursts and stir gently.
- Dip the Second End and Top with Peppermint:
- Take each cracker and dip the opposite end into the melted white chocolate. Immediately after dipping while the white chocolate is still wet sprinkle it heavily with the crushed peppermint candy so it sticks well.
- Cool and Store:
- Let the decorated crackers sit on the parchment until both chocolate coatings are firm. Once set transfer to an airtight tin or jar for storage.
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Chocolate Peppermint Grahams have the magic power to bring everyone into the kitchen This recipe made our holiday cookie boxes legendary with neighbors and I have a soft spot for the peppermint crunch layer which my husband loves to pick off first
Storage Tips
Once the crackers are set store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For a firmer chocolate bite keep the container in the fridge which makes the peppermint even snappier. Layer with wax paper to keep them from sticking together if you stack them.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use dark chocolate instead of milk for a more intense cocoa flavor. You can swap graham crackers for chocolate grahams if you want double chocolate or use Ritz crackers for a sweet and salty twist. If you are out of candy canes any peppermint hard candy works when crushed.
Serving Suggestions
Pack a handful in a cellophane bag with a ribbon for teacher gifts. Arrange on a platter for a cookie exchange or holiday open house. Pair with mugs of hot chocolate for an easy dessert board that feels festive and cozy.
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Cultural and Family Notes
Chocolate and peppermint are a classic American holiday combination dating back to the popularity of peppermint bark. Turning them into graham cracker treats makes this tradition even simpler and more approachable for families who want a quick no bake dessert.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate provides a richer flavor and pairs well with the bright peppermint. Simply melt and follow the same steps.
- → How do I crush the candy canes easily?
Place candy canes in a plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. This method keeps things tidy and safe for kids to help.
- → Can these treats be made ahead of time?
Yes, once chocolate has set, store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They keep well for holiday prep.
- → Should the grahams be stored in the refrigerator?
Room temperature is ideal, but chilling gives them a firmer bite. Both options work based on your preference.
- → What other crackers can I use?
Try chocolate grahams for extra cocoa flavor or swap for saltines or Ritz for a sweet-salty twist.
- → How long does the chocolate take to set?
It usually sets in 15-20 minutes at room temperature, or place in the fridge for quicker results.