As I watched my kids transform ordinary candy canes into a miniature wonderland, I couldn’t help but be reminded of the magic of the holidays. These Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks are not just a festive treat; they’re a delightful way to spark creativity in your kitchen. Coated in luscious dairy-free chocolate and adorned with vibrant candy cane crumbs, they provide a rich and chewy texture, perfect for indulging or gifting. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make—ideal for both seasoned home-chefs and little hands eager to help. Whether enjoyed as a sweet addition to your hot cocoa or wrapped up for loved ones, these treats are sure to bring smiles all around. Ready to dive into this enchanting recipe? Let’s get started!

Why are these treats a holiday must-have?

Joyful Creation: Making Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks is a delightful activity that engages the whole family.

Festive Flavors: The rich combination of dairy-free chocolate and refreshing peppermint creates a mouthwatering seasonal treat.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Simple enough for kids to help with, these sticks bring joy in every step of the making process.

Gift-Worthy Goodness: Beautifully packaged, they make perfect gifts that spread holiday cheer—just like my Chocolate Cheesecake Decadent delights.

Diet-Friendly: Gluten-free, nut-free, and optionally vegan, they cater to many dietary needs while ensuring everyone indulges in the festive spirit.

Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and steps, you can whip these up in no time, leaving you more moments to savor together this holiday season!

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to make these festive treats!

For the Sticks

Medium Candy Canes – Provides the peppermint flavor and structure for the sticks; choose regular-sized candy canes over minis to ensure proper stick length.
Large Marshmallows – Serve as the base for the chocolate coating; use regular or vegan marshmallows like Dandies (avoid mini versions).
Dairy-Free Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds richness and sweetness; Enjoy Life brand chocolate chips are recommended, check the Dairy-Free Chocolate Chip Guide for alternatives.
Coconut Oil – Helps to create a smooth and glossy chocolate coating; can be substituted with another neutral oil if needed.

For the Topping

Crushed Candy Cane Crumbs – Provides a festive crunch and enhances the peppermint flavor; save the smashed candy cane tops from assembling for this purpose.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Candy Canes
Begin by breaking off the curved tops of the medium candy canes, leaving a sturdy stick. Place the broken tops into a plastic bag and gently smash them with a rolling pin or mallet to create crumbly pieces. Set aside the crumbs for later use as a delightful topping, while keeping the straight candy cane sticks ready for assembly.

Step 2: Melt Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate chips with coconut oil to create a smooth coating. Heat the mixture in the microwave on HIGH for 1 minute, then whisk thoroughly. If the chocolate isn’t fully melted, continue heating in 15-second increments, ensuring to stir after each until you achieve a glossy, even consistency—be cautious to avoid overheating.

Step 3: Assemble Sticks
Line a baking sheet or plate with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Take each candy cane stick and dip the broken end into the melted chocolate, about ½ inch deep, allowing excess to drip off. Press the coated end into one side of a large marshmallow, then place the marshmallow, chocolate side down, onto the prepared parchment. Repeat this process for each remaining candy cane and marshmallow.

Step 4: Set Marshmallows
Place the assembled marshmallows in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or in the freezer for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate coating on the candy cane sticks to firm up. This step is essential for ensuring a solid base for the subsequent coating of chocolate, helping to maintain the structure as you continue with the Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks.

Step 5: Coat Marshmallows
Once the marshmallows have set, take each marshmallow and dip it fully into the melted chocolate, ensuring the sides are well-coated. Afterward, roll it in the previously crushed candy cane crumbs, making sure to cover all sides generously. Place the chocolate-covered marshmallows back onto the parchment paper to set, repeating this process until all the sticks are coated.

Step 6: Final Chill
Finally, return the finished Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks to the refrigerator for another 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is fully set and firm. This chilling period ensures a perfect texture for the treats, allowing the chocolate to harden beautifully while locking in the lovely peppermint flavor from the crushed candy canes.

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Room Temperature: Store Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks to keep them fresh and tasty.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the sticks, but be aware that this may lead to slight melting when served.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply remove and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

Reheating: If you want to restore that lovely chocolate coating, place the sticks in a warm oven for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the marshmallows to become overly soft.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks are a fantastic treat to make ahead of time, perfect for busy holiday schedules! You can prepare the candy canes and marshmallows up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1 through 3, storing the assembled sticks in the refrigerator, covered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to finish, dip the marshmallows into the melted chocolate and roll them in the crushed candy canes just before serving. This method keeps the chocolate coating shiny and fresh, ensuring your treats remain just as delicious as if made on the spot. Experience the joy of saving time while delighting in these festive goodies!

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Variations

Feel free to explore the delightful ways you can customize these treats to suit your taste!

Nut-Free:
Make sure all ingredients are labeled nut-free, especially chocolate brands, so everyone can enjoy.
Vegan:
Use dairy-free chocolate chips and vegan marshmallows to keep this treat completely plant-based.
Flavorful Additions:
Incorporate a dash of peppermint extract into the chocolate for an extra minty punch.
Texture Twist:
For added crunch, consider rolling the dipped marshmallows in finely chopped nuts or sprinkles instead of candy cane crumbs.
White Chocolate:
Swap out dairy-free semi-sweet chocolate with vegan white chocolate chips for a sweeter and creamier twist.
Spicy Kick:
Mix in a hint of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate for those who love a touch of heat.
Gifting Variations:
Create delightful gift bundles by packaging these sticks with my Bake Chocolate Peanut bars for an indulgent treat.
Decorative Drizzle:
Drizzle melted chocolate over the candy cane-coated marshmallows for an eye-catching finishing touch that you can easily customize in color!

Expert Tips for Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks

Choose Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality dairy-free chocolate chips for a smoother melt and richer flavor. Brands like Enjoy Life ensure delicious results.
Avoid Overheating: Be cautious when melting your chocolate; overheating can lead to a grainy texture. Stir and heat in short intervals to maintain smoothness.
Crush Carefully: When smashing candy canes, make sure to place them in a sealed bag to avoid messes and achieve even crumbs for better coating.
Chill Time Matters: Allow the marshmallow sticks to chill sufficiently after dipping. This helps the chocolate harden properly, creating a beautiful, glossy finish.
Storage Savvy: Store any leftover Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature to keep marshmallows fresh and delightful.

What to Serve with Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks?

These delightful treats pair perfectly with complementary flavors, adding to the festive spirit of any gathering!

Hot Cocoa: A classic pairing, rich and warm cocoa enhances the sweet flavors of the sticks, creating the ultimate cozy indulgence.
Peppermint Tea: Refreshing and fragrant, a steaming cup of peppermint tea balances the sweetness and adds a soothing element after a hearty meal.
Chewy Gingerbread Cookies: The spiced warmth of gingerbread complements the minty chocolate, making for a festive dessert duo that delights the senses.
Nutty Biscotti: The crunchy texture and nutty flavors provide a satisfying contrast to the chewy marshmallows, perfect for dipping in your drink of choice.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy contrast with the peppermint sticks, offering a refreshing chill to every bite.
Chocolate Fondue: For a truly decadent experience, a chocolate fondue fountain invites guests to dip their sticks, elevating the fun of sharing and indulging together.
Classic Eggnog: This creamy, spiced beverage pairs harmoniously, enhancing the holiday spirit with every sip and bite. The refreshingly cool peppermint adds a delightful twist!
Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries or oranges provide a light and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sticks, cleansing the palate wonderfully.
Red Velvet Cupcakes: The moist and rich red velvet flavor beautifully pairs, giving a colorful and festive addition to a dessert table, sure to impress guests.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A simple, elegant choice, refreshing sparkling water with a twist of lemon acts as a palate cleanser, complementing the richness of the treats.

Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when choosing candy canes?
Absolutely! When selecting candy canes, opt for medium-sized and avoid the mini versions to ensure they’re sturdy enough as sticks. Look for candy canes that are firm and free of dark spots or cracks, as this may indicate they’re stale.

How should I store my Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks?
You can store your Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them; however, expect slight melting when served at room temperature.

Can I freeze Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks?
Absolutely! To freeze, simply place your sticks in an airtight container and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. If needed, you can revive the chocolate coating by placing them in a warm oven for a few minutes—just avoid the microwave!

What if my chocolate thickens while melting?
If your chocolate thickens, don’t worry! Just reheat it gently in the microwave in 15-second increments, stirring thoroughly after each session until smooth again. This little trick will help you achieve the perfect chocolate coating without any grainy texture.

Are these Chocolate Marshmallow Peppermint Sticks safe for my allergies?
Very! These delightful treats are designed to be dairy-free, gluten-free, and nut-free. If you’re looking for a vegan option, simply use vegan marshmallows like Dandies and enjoy them worry-free! Always double-check ingredient labels for any specific allergies.