Indulgent Dark Chocolate Bark

Name: Indulgent Dark Chocolate Bark
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa); 1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans); 1/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, or cherries); 1 tbsp sea salt (optional); 1 tsp orange zest (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Dessert Classics

Whenever I crave a sweet and satisfying treat, indulging in dark chocolate bark is my go-to option. The rich flavors of dark chocolate combined with my favorite nuts and fruits create a deliciously satisfying experience. It's so easy to make at home, allowing me to personalize this treat with whatever toppings I desire. Sharing this with friends and family always brings smiles to their faces, and I love watching them enjoy every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll be hooked and want to make it over and over again!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-13T12:23:30.583Z

One of my favorite kitchen experiences is making dark chocolate bark. When I first attempted this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how uncomplicated and quick it was. I melted high-quality dark chocolate and folded in my favorite nuts and dried fruits, which resulted in a decadent dessert that I couldn’t resist!

What makes my version even more delightful is the variety of toppings I use. I’ve experimented with different combinations, from sprinkle sea salt to zesty orange peel. Each variant brings a unique flair to this indulgent treat, and sharing them with loved ones always lights up the room!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy nuts and fruity bursts
Quick and easy to customize with your favorite toppings
Perfect for gifting or enjoying during cozy evenings

      

Choosing the Right Chocolate

When selecting dark chocolate for this bark, aim for a quality product that contains at least 70% cocoa. The higher cocoa percentage results in a richer, more intense chocolate flavor. Look for chocolate that has a smooth texture and minimal additives. Purchase bars instead of chips, as bars tend to melt more evenly, allowing for a smoother bark. If you're feeling adventurous, consider trying flavored dark chocolates, like those infused with sea salt or chili for an unexpected twist.

Storage is key! If you have leftover chocolate, store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Using a microwave-safe bowl, you can quickly re-melt any extra chocolate for future use, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Remember, reheating chocolate should be done in short bursts—about 20 seconds at a time—to prevent burning and achieve that silky consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize the nuts and dried fruits in this recipe based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. If you're looking for nut-free options, try using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds; they add crunch without the allergens. Instead of dried cranberries or apricots, you can try using cacao nibs for added chocolate flavor or goji berries for a nutritional boost—each option offers its unique texture and taste.

For those who are vegan or dairy-free, make sure to select a dark chocolate that is explicitly labeled as such. Additionally, if you need to avoid refined sugar, look for dark chocolate sweetened with alternatives like coconut sugar or stevia. These tweaks can still yield a delicious bark without compromising on flavor, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delightful treat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious dark chocolate bark.

Ingredients

8 oz dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
1/2 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
1/4 cup dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, or cherries)
1 tbsp sea salt (optional)
1 tsp orange zest (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start creating your bark!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your indulgent dark chocolate bark.

Melt the Chocolate

In a medium heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Add Toppings

Remove the melted chocolate from heat and stir in the mixed nuts and dried fruit. If desired, add sea salt and orange zest for extra flavor.

Spread and Cool

Pour the chocolate mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spreading it into an even layer. Let it cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then refrigerate for 20 minutes until fully set.

Break into Pieces

Once hardened, remove the bark from the parchment and break it into pieces. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container!

Your delicious dark chocolate bark is now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture. Feel free to swap the toppings to your preferences, including seeds or spices for a unique twist!

Storing Your Bark

Once your dark chocolate bark has cooled and hardened, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider keeping it in the refrigerator to prevent melting. If you want to prolong freshness even further, you can wrap pieces individually in parchment paper before placing them in a container. This way, they won’t stick together and will stay fresh for a longer period.

Avoid storing your chocolate bark near strong-smelling items, as it can absorb odors. If your bark includes ingredients like dried fruit, it’s important to check for moisture. Excess humidity can lead to spoilage, so keep an eye out for any signs of degradation during storage.

Serving Suggestions

Indulgent dark chocolate bark makes a fantastic accompanying treat for coffee or dessert wine. It can also serve as an elegant addition to a cheese platter—pair it with sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese for a delightful contrast in flavors. For an attractive presentation, break the bark into irregular pieces and arrange them on a platter, mixing with additional nuts or fresh fruit for color.

If you're planning to give this bark as a gift, consider wrapping it in decorative cellophane with a ribbon. It’s a beautiful and thoughtful gesture that shows you care. Personalizing each batch with unique toppings ensures that every gift feels special and tailored to the recipient’s taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but the flavor will be sweeter and less intense compared to the dark chocolate.

→ How should I store the chocolate bark?

Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It can last up to two weeks.

→ What other toppings can I use?

You can use seeds, coconut flakes, pretzels, or even caramel pieces for a creative twist!

→ Can I make this bark vegan?

Yes, just ensure your chocolate is dairy-free and opt for plant-based toppings.