Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bark

$- 12 ounces dark chocolate chips - 8 ounces white chocolate chips - 1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed - 1/2 cup roasted and unsalted almonds, chopped - Sea salt, for sprinkling - Optional: 1 teaspoon coconut oil - Dark chocolate chips: They form the base of the bark. They provide a rich, deep flavor. - White chocolate chips: These add sweetness and a nice contrast to dark chocolate. - Freeze-dried strawberries: They give a fruity taste and a lovely crunch. - Almonds: They add texture and a nutty flavor to the bark. - Sea salt: A sprinkle of salt enhances the sweetness of the chocolate. - Coconut oil (optional): It helps the dark chocolate melt smoothly. - Milk chocolate chips: Use these for a sweeter version. - Other nuts: Try walnuts or pecans instead of almonds. - Dried fruits: Use dried cherries or blueberries for a different flavor. - Peppermint extract: Add a few drops for a minty twist. - Nut butter: Swirl in some peanut or almond butter for richness. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, grab a baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper. Make sure the paper lays flat. This helps the bark release easily later. A smooth surface keeps everything neat. Now, take 12 ounces of dark chocolate chips. If you want, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. This makes the chocolate smoother. Place the chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir after each interval until melted. It should look shiny and smooth. Pour the melted chocolate onto your lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of crushed freeze-dried strawberries and 1/2 cup of chopped almonds on top. Spread them out evenly for a balanced bite. Now, take 8 ounces of white chocolate chips and melt them the same way. Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate and toppings. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the white chocolate. Be gentle so they mix but stay distinct. Finally, it’s time to chill the bark. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the chocolate set firmly. Once set, break the bark into pieces. You can use your hands or a knife for this. Store the pieces in an airtight container. Enjoy this sweet treat anytime! To get smooth chocolate, start with good quality chocolate chips. They melt better. If you use dark chocolate chips, add 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. This helps the chocolate stay smooth. Melt the chocolate in short bursts. Heat it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Stir well between bursts. This way, you avoid burning the chocolate. When done, the chocolate should look shiny and creamy. Use freeze-dried strawberries for crunch and flavor. Crush them into small bits. Spread them evenly on the melted chocolate. Add chopped almonds for a nutty taste. You can mix the toppings too. Try adding mini marshmallows or shredded coconut. The key is to add the toppings right after pouring the melted chocolate. This keeps them from sinking. One big mistake is not stirring the chocolate while melting. This can lead to hot spots and burnt chocolate. Always stir often. Another mistake is letting the chocolate cool too much before adding toppings. If the chocolate hardens, toppings won’t stick. Lastly, avoid using wet tools. Water can cause chocolate to seize and become grainy. Keep everything dry for best results. Pro Tips Use High-Quality Chocolate: The flavor and texture of your bark depend greatly on the quality of chocolate you use. Opt for good quality dark and white chocolate for the best results. Don’t Overheat the Chocolate: When melting chocolate, use short intervals and stir frequently. Overheating can cause the chocolate to seize or become grainy. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like nuts, dried fruits, or even sprinkles. This way, you can make a bark that suits your taste! Store Properly: To keep the bark fresh, store it in an airtight container. If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent melting. {{image_2}} You can mix things up by using different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate gives a rich taste. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, try milk chocolate. You can also use white chocolate for a fun twist. Each type will change the bark's taste and look. Experiment with your favorites to find the best match for you. Adding extras can make your bark unique. Try adding crushed nuts like walnuts or pecans. They add crunch and flavor. You can also use dried fruit like cranberries or blueberries. For a fun twist, sprinkle some crushed cookies or candies on top. A little sprinkle of sea salt will boost all the flavors. The options are endless, so let your creativity shine! You can easily make this bark fit your diet. To make it vegan, use dairy-free chocolate chips. Many brands offer great options. For a gluten-free treat, check the labels on your chocolate and toppings. Most are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to be sure. With simple swaps, everyone can enjoy this delicious bark! To keep your chocolate covered strawberry bark fresh, store it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from ruining the texture. You can keep it at room temperature for a short time, but the fridge is better for long-term storage. Make sure to place parchment paper between layers if stacking. This way, the pieces won’t stick together. Chocolate bark can last for about two weeks if stored properly. If you use fresh ingredients or toppings, like nuts or fruits, the shelf life may reduce. Always check for any changes in smell or texture before eating. If you notice any changes, it’s best to toss it out. You can freeze chocolate bark for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. This keeps it fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Avoid thawing at room temperature to keep the bark from getting sticky. You can skip coconut oil if you want. Just melt the dark chocolate chips on their own. The chocolate will be a bit thicker. It will still taste great. Spread it evenly on the baking sheet, as usual. The other steps stay the same. You’ll still get a tasty treat! Fresh strawberries are not the best for this bark. They have moisture that can make the chocolate soggy. Freeze-dried strawberries add crunch and a strong flavor. If you really want to use fresh ones, chop them small. Pat them dry with paper towels first. Just know the bark texture will change. Use a microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate. Start by heating the chocolate chips in short bursts. Heat for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat until smooth. You can also use a double boiler. Just make sure the water does not touch the bowl. This method helps control the heat better. Always watch closely to avoid burning! We covered the key ingredients and steps for making chocolate-covered strawberry bark. You now know how to prepare your baking sheet, melt chocolate, and avoid common mistakes. With tips on variations and storage, you can enjoy this treat for weeks. Remember, you can tailor it to fit your diet or add fun toppings. Have fun making your delicious bark, and share it with friends and family!$

Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bark

A delightful treat made with dark and white chocolate, topped with freeze-dried strawberries and almonds.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

12 ounces dark chocolate chips
8 ounces white chocolate chips
1 cup freeze-dried strawberries, crushed
0.5 cup roasted and unsalted almonds, chopped
1 pinch sea salt, for sprinkling
1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional)

Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it's smooth and flat.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
Immediately sprinkle the crushed freeze-dried strawberries and chopped almonds evenly over the melted dark chocolate.
In another bowl, melt the white chocolate chips using the same method as before, then drizzle it over the dark chocolate and toppings. Use a toothpick or knife to create swirls by gently mixing the white chocolate into the dark chocolate without fully combining.
Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors.
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
Once set, remove the bark from the refrigerator and break it into irregular pieces using your hands or a sharp knife.
Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge, and enjoy it as a delightful treat!

Notes

Store in an airtight container for freshness.

Keyword bark, chocolate, dessert, strawberries