Today our advent tag instructed us to hang candy canes on the tree and read "The Candymaker's Gift" by David and Helen Haidle.

 

 

We also enjoyed making some Peppermint Bark (from "Christmas with Paula Deen" ):

Paula Deen's Peppermint Bark

 

Peppermint candy canes

18 squares white chocolate (1 ounce each)

Peppermint extract (optional)

1.  Line a rimmed cookie sheet with parchment or waxed paper.  Place the candy canes in a heavy-duty plastic bag and hammer into 1/4-inch chunks or smaller.  You should have about 1cup.

2.  Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water until smooth, or melt in the microwave in a 2-quart glass dish.  Microwave on high (100%) for 1 minute, stir, and microwave on high for 10 seconds more.  If necessary, microwave on high for an additional 10 seconds, and stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

3.  Combine the candy cane chunks with the melted chocolate.  Add 1 drop of peppermint extract, if desired.  Pour the mixture onto the prepared cookie sheet and place in the refrigerator for 45 minutes or until firm.  Remove from the cookie sheet and break the bark into irregular pieces, like peanut brittle.

Makes about 6 cups