Save This decadent chocolate bark combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tart flavors for an irresistible treat that's ready in minutes. The contrasting textures of smooth chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and chewy dried cherries create a snacking experience that's impossible to resist.
I first created this bark when looking for a last-minute hostess gift, and it's become my signature treat. Friends now expect me to bring this to gatherings, and I've lost count of how many times I've written down the recipe on napkins at parties.
Ingredients
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate: The foundation of our bark providing rich flavor and smooth texture. Choose high-quality chocolate with at least 60% cacao for best results
- Coconut oil: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly and adds a subtle silkiness to the finished bark
- Mini pretzels: Provide the perfect salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate. Look for fresh, crisp pretzels
- Dried tart cherries: These jewel-like fruits add chewy texture and bright acidity that cuts through the richness. Choose plump, moist cherries without added sugar if possible
- Roasted almonds: Optional but recommended for extra crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them yourself for maximum flavor
- Rainbow candy-coated chocolate pieces: Add playful pops of color and extra chocolate goodness. Perfect for the "coded" theme
- Flaky sea salt: The finishing touch that elevates all the flavors. Maldon or fleur de sel varieties work beautifully here
Instructions
- Prepare Your Workspace:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure the paper extends slightly beyond the edges. This prevents sticking and makes removal effortless. Have all your toppings measured and ready to go as you'll need to work quickly once the chocolate is melted.
- Melt The Chocolate:
- Place your chopped chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl. You can melt it using the double-boiler method by setting the bowl over simmering water, ensuring the bottom doesn't touch the water. Stir frequently until 90% melted, then remove from heat and let residual heat finish the job. Alternatively, microwave in 20-second bursts at 50% power, stirring between each interval until smooth. The chocolate should be glossy and completely lump-free.
- Create Your Canvas:
- Pour the melted chocolate onto your prepared baking sheet. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, spread it into a rectangle approximately 9x12 inches. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. Work quickly but carefully as the chocolate will begin setting at room temperature.
- Add Your Toppings:
- While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle your broken pretzels, dried cherries, chopped almonds, and candy pieces evenly across the surface. Think about creating a balanced distribution so every piece of the finished bark has a bit of everything. The colorful candy pieces create the "coded" element that gives this bark its playful name.
- Finish With Flair:
- Sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt over the entire surface. Be judicious here as a little goes a long way. Using very gentle pressure with the back of a spoon, press the toppings slightly into the chocolate to ensure they adhere well when the bark is broken.
- Chill And Set:
- Place the entire baking sheet in the refrigerator and allow to chill undisturbed for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely firm. You'll know it's ready when the surface looks matte rather than glossy and feels hard to the touch.
- Break And Serve:
- Once fully set, remove from the refrigerator and lift the entire bark off the parchment paper. Using your hands, break the bark into irregular pieces approximately 2-3 inches in size. The rustic, uneven edges are part of the charm.
Save The combination of sweet chocolate and salty pretzels creates an addictive flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more. My absolute favorite ingredient in this recipe is the dried tart cherries. I discovered them at a farmers market years ago and have been incorporating them into my baking ever since. Their bright acidity cuts through the richness of the chocolate in a way that makes this bark truly special.
Storage Tips
This chocolate bark stores beautifully when kept in an airtight container at cool room temperature. The key is to keep it away from heat sources and direct sunlight, which can cause the chocolate to bloom or melt. If your kitchen runs warm, especially during summer months, you may want to store it in the refrigerator instead.
For gifting or longer storage, layer pieces between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking. When properly stored, the bark maintains its texture and flavor for up to two weeks, though in my house it rarely lasts more than a few days!
Ingredient Substitutions
This recipe welcomes creative adaptations based on what you have on hand. If dried cherries aren't available, dried cranberries make an excellent substitute with a similar tart-sweet profile. Blueberries offer a milder flavor but still provide lovely color contrast.
For those with nut allergies, simply omit the almonds or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for crunch without allergen concerns. The pretzels can be swapped for other crunchy elements like potato chips, graham cracker pieces, or even broken waffle cones for interesting texture variations.
While dark chocolate creates a sophisticated base, milk chocolate offers a sweeter, more approachable flavor that children especially enjoy. White chocolate creates a striking visual contrast with the dark cherries and works beautifully for holiday versions.
Seasonal Adaptations
Winter Holidays Add crushed candy canes and use red and green candy pieces for a festive Christmas bark
Valentine's Day Use all dried cherries and red candy pieces with a drizzle of white chocolate for a romantic touch
Halloween Incorporate orange candy pieces and broken chocolate cookie pieces for a spooky treat
Success Stories
This bark has become my signature contribution to our annual neighborhood cookie exchange. Last year, three different neighbors asked for the recipe before the event was even over! I now make triple batches during the holiday season because it disappears so quickly.
One friend told me she served this at her book club meeting alongside glasses of port wine, and it was such a hit that they now request it at every gathering. The combination of sweet, salty, and tart flavors seems to please everyone, even those who claim not to have a sweet tooth.
Freezer Meal Conversion
While not a traditional freezer meal, this chocolate bark freezes surprisingly well, making it perfect for advance preparation. To freeze, place completely cooled bark pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1 hour. Then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Save This bark is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that’s sure to impress. Enjoy creating and sharing this versatile treat!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, milk or white chocolate work well for a sweeter, creamier variation. Adjust toppings as desired for added color and flavor.
- → How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing while melting?
Melt chocolate gently using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring often. Adding coconut oil can help create a smoother, glossy finish.
- → Is it possible to make a nut-free version?
Absolutely—just omit the almonds and check your chocolate and pretzel labels for possible traces of nuts.
- → Can I swap out cherries for other dried fruit?
Yes! Dried cranberries, blueberries, or chopped apricots make tasty substitutes for the cherries. Use whatever you prefer or have on hand.
- → How should I store the finished bark?
Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to two weeks. Separate layers with parchment to keep pieces from sticking.
- → What makes the bark 'coded'?
The playful addition of rainbow candy-coated chocolate pieces gives a 'coded' look and colorful crunch, but you can leave them out if desired.