Bark candy, also known as bark or chocolate bark, is a popular treat made from chocolate, nuts, fruits, crunchy ingredients like pretzels or crackers, and other mix-ins. The name comes from the textured, bark-like appearance of the finished candy. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into making this sweet indulgence!
Ingredients
The base of bark candy is chocolate. Typically, dark, milk, or white chocolate is used. Dark chocolate provides a rich, intense chocolate flavor. Milk chocolate gives a sweeter, creamier taste. And white chocolate has a milder, sweeter flavor. The type of chocolate used depends on personal preference.
Nuts are another key ingredient in bark candy. Popular choices include almonds, walnuts, pecans, peanuts, hazelnuts, cashews, and pistachios. Nuts add crunch and flavor to the candy. They are usually chopped or left whole before mixing into the melted chocolate.
Dried fruits are also commonly added to bark recipes. Some top picks are cranberries, cherries, apricots, raisins, currants, and banana chips. The chewy, sweet fruit bits contrast nicely with the chocolate and nuts.
For extra texture, pretzels, crackers, cereal, granola, coconut flakes, malt balls, peppermint candies, toffee bits, and crisped rice cereal make great mix-ins. They add delightful crunch to each bite.
Other fun additions include seeds like pumpkin or sunflower, candies like peanut butter chips or toffee bits, spices such as cinnamon or cayenne pepper, and dried edible flowers. The possibilities are endless!
Steps for Making Bark Candy
Making bark candy is a fairly simple process. Here are the basic steps:
- Choose a chocolate base. Suggested amounts for a standard baking sheet are 12 ounces of dark, milk, or white chocolate chips or chopped chocolate.
- Select your mix-ins. Nuts, fruits, crunchy bits, spices, etc. Amounts vary, but 1/2 to 1 cup total is common.
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Melt the chocolate. A double boiler or microwave works well. Take care not to burn the chocolate.
- Stir in the mix-ins until well combined.
- Spread the chocolate mixture thinly and evenly onto the prepared pan.
- Let the candy set at room temperature until firm, about 1 hour.
- Break or cut the slab into pieces when set.
Sprinkling the toppings on in sections or stripes creates a fun design. Drizzling with contrasting melted chocolate or decorating with candies like sprinkles also dresses up the final look. And flavors and textures can be layered for creative flavor combinations.
Storage Tips
Properly stored, bark candy will stay fresh for 1-2 weeks at room temperature. To maximize freshness:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- If the bark contains perishable fruits or nuts, refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- If chocolate “blooms” or discolors, it is still safe to eat but may have a grainy texture.
Fun Flavor Ideas
One of the great things about bark candy is how versatile it is. There are endless flavor combinations to suit any taste or occasion. Here are some fun ideas to try:
| Flavor Combination | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Salted caramel | Dark chocolate, almonds, sea salt, caramel bits |
| Cranberry pistachio | White chocolate, dried cranberries, chopped pistachios |
| Peanut butter cup | Dark chocolate, chopped peanuts, peanut butter chips |
| Pumpkin spice | Milk chocolate, pumpkin seeds, cinnamon, nutmeg |
| Mint chocolate | Dark chocolate, crumbled peppermint candies |
| Tropical coconut | Milk chocolate, shredded coconut, dried pineapple |
Try swapping in your own favorite flavors or seasonal ingredients to put your personal spin on this easy candy. Bark is a great make-ahead treat for holidays, parties, gifts, or just a sweet snack anytime.
Nutrition Information
The nutrition profile of bark candy can vary widely based on the ingredients used. Here are some general nutrition guidelines:
- A 1-ounce serving of plain dark chocolate bark contains approximately 145 calories, 9g fat, 14g carbs, 2g protein
- Milk and white chocolate have slightly more calories and carbohydrates due to higher sugar content
- Nuts and dried fruits boost fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Limit saturated fat, sugar, and sodium intake if following a specific diet
- Enjoy bark candy in moderation as part of a balanced diet
Be mindful of any food allergies or intolerances when choosing ingredients. Overall, bark can be a relatively healthy treat when homemade with high quality, natural ingredients in reasonable portions.
Make Your Own!
Whipping up a batch of bark candy at home is simple, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Play with your favorite flavors and get creative with the mix-ins. Bring some to a party or gift to family and friends for a delicious homemade treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal time and effort, you can make artisanal-quality bark candy at home. Turn an ordinary chocolate bar into a gourmet confection with the easy addition of nuts, fruits, snacks, spices, and more. Bark candy makes a fabulous gift, party treat, or anytime sweet snack the whole family will love!
Conclusion
Bark candy is a versatile and delicious treat made by topping a chocolate base with nuts, fruits, crunchy bits, and other creative mix-ins. It is simple to make at home yet looks impressive enough to gift or serve at parties. With endless flavor combinations possible using quality chocolate and fresh ingredients, it satisfies any sweet tooth. Next time you want to whip up something sweet in a flash, give bark candy a try! Have fun getting creative with your own signature flavors and textures.