Day 23: Matcha Mint Mini White Chocolate Bar

This mini bar packs pounds of Christmas cheer into its petite package. Beyond the seasonal red and green color scheme, the combination of peppermint and chocolate reminds us of frosty Winter mornings and chilly nights lit by holiday lights. But how did peppermint become such a potent symbol of the holiday season?

It's hard to say! Many believe that the association came from the candy cane, where legend says that a German choirmaster in the 1600s would hand these sugary sticks out to his youngest singers to keep them quiet during Nativity ceremonies. Others believe that the cane holds religious symbolism. In contrast, some offer a more practical reason- because mint oils are stable, they can be used as a flavoring during colder months when other ingredients are unavailable. But whatever the origin and association of peppermint as a Winter symbol, it has become a cultural phenomenon during the holidays, like pumpkin spice is to Autumn.

Of course, fresh peppermint and candy cane make this mini bar a seasonal stand out, but the contrast of soothing white chocolate and earthy ceremonial matcha makes this dainty whole. We recommend enjoying today's treat with a cup of steamed milk, letting the mini bar slowly meltdown for a warm yet refreshing white chocolate chaud.