Rachael NarinsSince candy canes are the holiday season's favorite edible striped crooks, we started out looking for locally made ones and were amazed to find there is no local source.
Sure, you can go to Logan's in Ontario to watch the candy made right before your eyes (and if you have patient children, you should), or brave the crowds at Disneyland, but we couldn't find a local artisan actually making classic candy canes in L.A. So now we're compelled to point out that you can sell candy you've made at home with a cottage food license, and we would like to formally request someone get right on this. Thank you.
In the meantime, here are four holiday confections with a touch of that red-and-white candy magic that are worth your attention, all exceptional treats that include peppermint in one form or another. Holiday delights, one and all.
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Peppermint bark brownies; Credit: FoodInk Catering
Grocerie by FoodInk on La Brea is once again carrying its show-stopping chocolate-a-thon peppermint bark brownies. The cakey squares are filled with peppermint buttercream, dipped in a bittersweet chocolate ganache, and topped with a generous sprinkling of peppermint candy. They will be available individually from Dec. 15 through Dec. 24 for $3 each or can be special ordered by the dozen for $30. 1105 S. La Brea, Mid-City; (323) 934-9501
White chocolate peppermint bark; Credit: Pop Up Pastries
Available from the Good Eggs grocery delivery service for a limited time, Pop Up Pastries offers 6 ounces of white chocolate and crushed peppermint bark for $6.99. The large shards are made with Belgian white chocolate and organic peppermint oil. Owner and pastry chef Kelly Mathews says, “I think white peppermint bark was the first recipe I had to perfect. Christmas is by far my (and my sweet tooth’s!) favorite time of year.” This confection is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Peppermint Kiss ice cream; Credit: Mother Moo Creamery
Mother Moo Creamery makes a palate-pleasing version of organic peppermint ice cream, sourcing its candy from beloved Pennsylvania candy maker King Leo. You can pick up a scoop or a pint at the shop in Sierra Madre or either of the Joan's on Third locations. The ultra-premium ice cream is made by hand in small batches. 17 Kersting Court, Sierra Madre; (626) 355-9650.
Peppermint bark; Credit: Valerie Confections
From now until Christmas Day you can stop by Valerie Confections and get a gift bag or ribboned box of exceptional peppermint bark. Each piece is a layer of white and dark chocolate, sandwiching fresh local mint and topped with pebbly, house-made red peppermint candy. The chocolate is velvety and the overall effect is subtly minty with a smooth finish. 3360 W. 1st St., dwntwn.; (213) 739-8149.
Rachael Narins loves candy canes. You can follow her on Instagram or Twitter @chickswknives. Want more Squid Ink? Follow us on Twitter or Like us on Facebook.
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