Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark Delightful Crunchy Snack

If you crave a crunchy snack that balances rich flavor with a touch of salt, dark chocolate sea salt bark is your answer. With simple ingredients and easy steps, I’ll guide you through making this delightful treat. From selecting high-quality chocolate to adding your favorite nuts and fruits, you’ll find the perfect blend of taste and texture. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz of high-quality dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)

– 1/2 cup of roughly chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pistachios)

– 1/4 cup of dried fruit (like cranberries or cherries)

To make the best Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark, you need a few key ingredients. Start with high-quality dark chocolate. I always use chocolate that has at least 70% cocoa. This gives the bark a rich and deep flavor. Next, choose your chopped nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or pistachios work great. They add a nice crunch. Finally, pick some dried fruit. Cranberries or cherries add sweetness and color.

Optional Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon of flaky sea salt (Maldon recommended)

– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

– Optional: A sprinkle of crushed freeze-dried fruit for extra color and flavor

For extra flavor, I recommend adding flaky sea salt. Maldon salt is my favorite. It gives a nice contrast to the sweetness. A teaspoon of vanilla extract also adds depth to the chocolate. If you want a pop of color, try crushed freeze-dried fruit. This is not a must, but it makes the bark look stunning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Baking Sheet

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the bark come off easily later. Make sure the paper covers the entire sheet. This step is crucial to avoid a sticky mess.

Melting the Chocolate

You can melt the dark chocolate in two ways: the microwave or a double boiler. For the microwave, break the chocolate into small pieces and place them in a bowl. Heat it in 30-second bursts. Stir after each interval until it is smooth. If you prefer the double boiler, fill a pot with water. Set a bowl over the pot. Make sure the bowl does not touch the water. Heat on low until the chocolate melts gently. Both methods work well.

Combining Ingredients

Once the chocolate is melted, add in the vanilla extract. This adds a nice flavor. Next, fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruit. Mix until the nuts and fruit are evenly coated in chocolate. This is where you can get creative!

Chilling and Breaking

Now it’s time to chill the bark. Pour the chocolate mixture onto the lined baking sheet. Spread it to about 1/4 inch thick. While it’s still warm, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top. Place the sheet in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Once set, remove it from the fridge. Gently lift it off the parchment paper. Break the bark into uneven pieces for a rustic look. Enjoy your tasty snack!

Tips & Tricks

Best Chocolate to Use

For my Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark, I always choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. This chocolate gives a rich, bold flavor. Brands like Ghirardelli or Green & Black’s work well. If you prefer a milder taste, go for chocolate with 60% cocoa. The higher the cocoa, the more intense the taste!

Achieving a Smooth Finish

Melting chocolate can be tricky. I recommend using a microwave or a double boiler. If you use a microwave, heat the chocolate in short bursts of 30 seconds. Stir after each burst. This way, you avoid burning it. If you prefer the double boiler method, keep the heat low. Stir the chocolate as it melts. This helps it stay smooth and shiny.

Creative Add-ins

You can customize your bark with fun add-ins. I love adding chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for crunch. Dried fruits like cranberries or cherries add a sweet touch. For a pop of color, try crushed freeze-dried fruit. You can mix and match to create your perfect flavor!

Variations

Nut-Free Options

To make Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark nut-free, skip the nuts. You can use seeds instead. Try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as great alternatives. They add crunch and nutrition. You can also increase the dried fruit to add texture and sweetness.

Vegan Adaptation

For a vegan version, choose dark chocolate that is dairy-free. Look for labels that say “vegan” or “dairy-free.” Replace the vanilla extract with a splash of almond extract for added flavor. This keeps your bark creamy and satisfying without any animal products.

Flavor Combinations

Get creative with flavors! You can add dried fruits like apricots or raisins for a sweet twist. Consider spices like cinnamon or a hint of chili powder for warmth. A sprinkle of crushed peppermint or orange zest can also brighten the taste. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your dark chocolate sea salt bark fresh, store it in an airtight container. This protects the bark from air and moisture. You can keep it at room temperature if you plan to eat it soon. If not, the fridge is a better option. Always make sure it is fully cooled before storing.

Shelf Life

The bark lasts about two weeks at room temperature. It can last longer in the fridge, up to four weeks. Make sure to check for any changes in smell or texture. If it looks or smells off, it’s best to toss it out.

Freezing Details

Yes, you can freeze dark chocolate sea salt bark. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay good for up to three months in the freezer. When you are ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

What is Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark?

Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark is a sweet and salty treat. It has rich dark chocolate, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruit. The flaky sea salt adds a nice touch. This snack is both satisfying and easy to make. You get a mix of flavors and textures in every bite. The dark chocolate gives it a deep, bold taste, while the nuts add crunch. The dried fruit brings a hint of sweetness. This combination makes it a delightful snack for any occasion.

How many calories are in Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark?

One piece of Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark contains about 120 calories. This can vary based on the nuts and fruits you use. Here’s a quick breakdown of the calories in the main ingredients:

– Dark chocolate (8 oz): 960 calories

– Nuts (1/2 cup): 400 calories (varies by type)

– Dried fruit (1/4 cup): 100 calories (varies by type)

– Vanilla extract (1 tsp): 12 calories

– Sea salt: 0 calories

This bark is a tasty treat that fits well into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Yes, you can easily swap some ingredients in Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Bark. Here are a few ideas:

– Chocolate: Use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer a sweeter taste.

– Nuts: If you have nut allergies, try seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

– Dried Fruit: You can replace cranberries or cherries with raisins, apricots, or any dried fruit you like.

– Sea Salt: If you don’t have flaky sea salt, regular table salt works too, but use less.

These simple swaps let you customize the bark for your tastes or dietary needs.

This article shared how to make delicious dark chocolate sea salt bark. You learned about the main and optional ingredients, plus step-by-step instructions. We covered tips for a smooth finish and creative add-ins. You can explore variations for nut-free or vegan needs. Lastly, we discussed the best storage methods to keep your bark fresh.

Remember, this treat is simple and fun to make. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing this sweet snac