Dark Chocolate Bark

 Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe

Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe

Dark chocolate bark is a simple yet delicious treat that you can easily customize with your favorite toppings, such as nuts, dried fruit, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. Here’s a basic recipe to make your own dark chocolate bark.

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Ingredients:

• 8 oz (about 225g) dark chocolate (preferably 70% cocoa or higher)
• ½ cup mixed nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pistachios), roughly chopped
• ¼ cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, cherries, raisins)
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds (optional)
• Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will make it easier to remove the bark once it’s set.

2. Melt the Chocolate:

• Break the dark chocolate into smaller pieces and place it in a heatproof bowl.
• Melt the chocolate using one of two methods:
  • Double Boiler Method: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir the chocolate until fully melted and smooth.
  • Microwave Method: Microwave the chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until it’s completely melted and smooth.

3. Spread the Chocolate:

• Once the chocolate is melted, pour it onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Use a spatula to spread the chocolate into an even layer, about ¼ inch thick. The size of the bark is up to you – you can make it thin or thick depending on your preference.

4. Add Toppings:

• While the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle the chopped nuts, dried fruit, and seeds (if using) evenly over the surface.
• Gently press down on the toppings to help them adhere to the chocolate.
• If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.

5. Chill the Bark:

• Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate is fully set and hard.
• You can also place it in the freezer for quicker setting (about 20-30 minutes).

6. Break into Pieces:

• Once the chocolate is firm, break it into shards or pieces of your desired size.

7. Store:

• Store the dark chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the fridge for longer shelf life.

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Variations:

• Fruit and Nut Bark: Add different combinations of nuts (e.g., cashews, pecans) and dried fruits (e.g., apricots, mangoes) for variety.
• Spicy Chocolate Bark: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Superfoods: Top your bark with chia seeds, goji berries, or cacao nibs for an extra nutrient boost.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Swirl melted peanut butter into the dark chocolate before spreading for a creamy, nutty flavor.

Enjoy your homemade dark chocolate bark as a snack, dessert, or gift for friends and family!