Make Your Own Chocolate Bark for Gifting
A few years back, my family decided to shake up our holiday traditions. Instead of exchanging store-bought gifts, we all took a vote and agreed that if there was going to be any gifting, it would be food-related. Food is always something you can enjoy, and there's something special about giving a homemade treat. The personal touch that comes with a food gift makes it even more meaningful. Plus, who doesn’t love receiving a beautifully wrapped box of something delicious? This Dark Chocolate Bark is one of our favorites, especially during the festive season. It’s easy to make, versatile, and a hit with everyone who tries it. Perfect for gifting!
Did You Know?
Chocolate bark is a versatile and popular treat that can be customized with a variety of toppings. Originating from the traditional holiday treat, chocolate bark has evolved into a year-round favorite. Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also contains antioxidants that can benefit your health. Adding toppings like cranberries, hazelnuts, and shredded coconut not only enhances the flavor and texture but also introduces a mix of nutrients, including healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Chocolate bark is also a perfect homemade gift, especially during the festive season.
Recipe: Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients:
- 16 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup almonds, toasted and roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
Toast the Hazelnuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast them for about 10 minutes, or until they are fragrant and slightly browned. Allow them to cool, then roughly chop.
Personal Tip: Toasting the hazelnuts brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor, making the chocolate bark even more delicious.
Melt the Chocolate: Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Personal Tip: If you're in a hurry, you can also melt the chocolate in the microwave, heating it in 30-second intervals and stirring in between to prevent burning.
Assemble the Chocolate Bark:
Spread the Chocolate: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment paper and spread it out evenly with a spatula to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Personal Tip: For a thicker bark, pour the chocolate into a smaller area; for thinner bark, spread it out more.
Add the Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the dried cranberries, chopped hazelnuts, and shredded coconut over the melted chocolate. Press the toppings gently into the chocolate to ensure they adhere.
Personal Tip: Be creative with your toppings! You can add other dried fruits, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the top for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Personal Tip: A little sea salt goes a long way in enhancing the sweetness of the chocolate and the tartness of the cranberries.
Set the Chocolate Bark:
Cool and Set: Allow the chocolate bark to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, or until fully set. You can also place it in the refrigerator for faster setting.
Personal Tip: If you’re in a warm climate, setting the chocolate in the refrigerator will ensure it hardens properly without melting.
Serve:
Break into Pieces: Once set, break the chocolate bark into irregular pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
Personal Tip: For gifting, wrap the bark in decorative cellophane bags and tie with a ribbon for a festive touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories: 200, Fat: 15g, Saturated Fat: 7g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 4g, Sugars: 12g, Protein: 3g
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
1. Bulk Buying: Purchase dark chocolate and nuts in bulk or when on sale. This can significantly reduce the overall cost and ensure you always have ingredients on hand for quick dessert preparations.
2. Homemade Toppings: Save money by making your own toppings. Toasting nuts and seeds at home can be more cost-effective and allows you to control the flavor and freshness.
3. Chocolate Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, to create a variety of flavors. You can also mix different percentages of dark chocolate for a unique taste.
4. Reusable Storage: Invest in reusable silicone bags or glass containers for storing leftover chocolate bark. These are environmentally friendly and can save money over time compared to disposable plastic bags and containers.
5. Energy Efficiency: Chocolate bark is energy-efficient since it doesn’t require baking. This saves on electricity costs and keeps your kitchen cool, especially during warmer months.
6. Smart Storage: Store leftover chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze the bark in portioned containers.
7. Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of certain ingredients, use what you have on hand. Substituting dried fruits, nuts, or seeds can add a unique flavor and texture to your chocolate bark.
8. Learning and Sharing: Engage with online cooking communities for more tips and recipe ideas. Sharing your experiences and learning from others can make chocolate bark making more enjoyable and economical. You can discover new techniques, ingredient substitutions, and creative ways to use pantry staples.
9. Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with adding different flavors to your chocolate bark, such as a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder, to add a unique twist to your recipe. Fresh herbs like mint or rosemary can also enhance the flavor and add a touch of freshness.
10. Decorative Touches: Enhance the visual appeal of your chocolate bark by adding decorative touches like edible gold leaf, colored sprinkles, or dried flower petals. These simple additions can make your dessert look professionally made without much extra cost or effort.
Here Are Some Other Really Great Food Gifting Ideas
Homemade Jams and Jellies: Capture the flavors of the season by making your own jams and jellies. Use fruits like strawberries, peaches, or blueberries, and package them in cute glass jars with a ribbon and a handwritten label. A sprig of dried lavender or rosemary tied to the jar can add a special touch.
Infused Olive Oils: Create your own infused olive oils by adding herbs, garlic, or chili peppers to a bottle of high-quality olive oil. It’s a sophisticated gift that’s perfect for anyone who loves to cook. Tie a small bundle of fresh herbs around the neck of the bottle for a beautiful presentation.
Spiced Nuts: Roast a variety of nuts with your favorite spices and a touch of honey or maple syrup. Package them in festive bags or tins, and add a handwritten note with serving suggestions. These make great snacks that are perfect for sharing.
These food gifts are not only delicious but also thoughtful and customizable. With a little creativity, you can turn any of these ideas into a memorable present that your loved ones will cherish. Happy gifting!