Date Night Chocolate Bark
With Valentine’s Day approaching fast, it’s hard to escape the bombardment of mass produced chocolate boxes, cakes, and other treats that easily entice one in need of a gift for a loved one. However, there are other solutions that are just as easy to make from the heart and just as indulgent!
I introduce to you the effortless art of custom chocolate bark! Chocolate bark is a versatile treat that can be made appropriate for all occasions, serve as excellent accompaniment to a glass of your favorite wine, or just to have around as an easy and satisfying sweet-tooth fix!
The main ingredient of course is chocolate! A simple 70% dark chocolate of your choosing offers a small boost of antioxidants and is often low in sugar. Your bark can be naturally sweetened up by adding a plethora of fruit toppings or even nuts, it’s all up to you!
Date Night Chocolate Bark
Equipment needed:
- 1 Sheet Pan
- Parchment Paper
- A Double Boiler or small Nonstick Pot
- Rubber Spatula
- Zip Lock Bag and Mug OR a Food Processor (If nuts aren’t already crushed)
Ingredients:
-2 Cups of 70% Dark Chocolate (the close equivalent of two chocolate bars)
-½ cup Freeze Dried Strawberries
- Chipped walnuts
- Crushed pistachios
- Shredded unsweetened cookout flakes
Instructions:
1. To prep your toppings, if the nuts aren’t already crushed to your preference, you can quickly pulse them in a food processor. If you do not have a food processor, you can crush them manually by putting them in a zip lock bag and using the bottom of a cup or mug to break them up.
2. Have your sheet pan prepped with parchment paper for quick transfer.
3. Fill the bottom boiler pan half way with water and begin boiling. If you’re using a standard non-stick pot, simply leave it empty and heat on low.
4. Once the water is boiling, reduce heat down to low and break your chocolate into the top pan.
5. Stay present with the chocolate and gently stir and fold it with a rubber spatula until fully melted.
6. Pour the melted chocolate into the center of the parchment paper and allow it to spread. The chocolate should not be too thin however, otherwise it may be too brittle to lift.
7. Begin adding your toppings to your preferred amount and allow to cool at room temp for at least an hour.
8. Lastly, break your bark into individual pieces and enjoy!