Frozen Peppermint Bark

Christmas is about a week away and I'm ready to step into "Christmas break" mode!  It's funny--not having a final paper due or one more shift to work at the office right before Christmas still makes me giddy.  And even though those schedules are no longer a reality for me, I still put myself on a Christmas break.  Can you relate?  If so, let's celebrate with some frozen peppermint bark...Merry Christmas to us!  

Frozen Peppermint Bark
     Makes 12 servings
For the base:
1/2 c unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 c melted (not hot) coconut oil
1/4 c honey
1/4 c stevia sweetened chocolate chips
1/4 t peppermint extract
For the topping:
2 T melted (not hot) coconut oil
1 T arrowroot powder
1 t honey
A few drops naturally derived red or green food coloring (optional)
6 honey sweetened peppermint patty candies, chopped (about 1/2 c)

​Whisk cocoa powder and coconut oil for the base in a large bowl til smooth, then whisk in honey, peppermint extract, and chocolate chips.  Spread onto a flat pan or container (about 8x8").  Freeze for 20 minutes.  While base freezes, whisk together coconut oil, arrowroot powder, and honey for the topping in a clean bowl.  Lightly color this glaze with food coloring, if desired.  Once base has been in freezer for 20 minutes, drizzle glaze over the top, then sprinkle with chopped peppermint patties, gently pressing down so they stick.  Freeze for another 20 minutes.  Finally, remove peppermint bark from freezer and pop out onto a cutting board.  Chop into 12 pieces and store in freezer til ready to serve.  When serving, defrost for 5 minutes, then eat immediately.

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