Chocolate Almond Bark

Name: Chocolate Almond Bark
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz dark chocolate (chopped); 4 oz milk chocolate (chopped); 1 cup slivered almonds; 1 tsp sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Almond Bark, especially during the holidays. It’s a delightful treat that combines rich dark chocolate with crunchy almonds for an indulgent snack or gift. What I adore about this recipe is its simplicity; you can whip it up in just a few minutes! The best part is customizing it with your favorite nuts or even adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top to enhance the flavors. Trust me, once you give this a try, it will become a staple in your home!

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:58:10.313Z

When I first attempted my own version of Chocolate Almond Bark, I experimented with different chocolate types. I found that a mix of dark and milk chocolate really gave the bark an irresistible balance of sweetness and richness. I also learned that the key to a smooth, glossy finish is to temper the chocolate properly, ensuring it sets beautifully. This added a professional touch to my homemade treat!

Barking up the right tree with almonds is crucial! Toasting them slightly before adding gives an amazing depth of flavor that contrasts perfectly with the chocolate. I love to use slivered almonds for a beautiful texture and presentation, but feel free to swap in your favorite nut for a personal twist!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Simple to make and perfect for gifting
Customizable with your choice of nuts and toppings

      

Understanding Chocolate Melting Techniques

Melting chocolate can be tricky, and it's essential to use the right technique to avoid seizing. For this Chocolate Almond Bark, I recommend the double boiler method, as it allows gentle heating. Ensure that the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water; otherwise, the chocolate can get too hot, causing it to clump. Stir the chocolate occasionally until it reaches a glossy, smooth consistency. If you notice any tiny bits of chocolate that don’t seem to melt, remove the bowl from heat and continue stirring as residual heat often works wonders.

Alternatively, if you’re in a pinch, you can use a microwave to melt the chocolate. Place the chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until just melted. Be careful not to overheat, as microwaves can quickly go from melted to burnt. Additionally, for a smoother texture, consider adding a teaspoon of coconut oil to the chocolate; this also helps to give the bark a lovely sheen once set.

Choosing the Right Almonds

The choice of almonds can significantly affect the final flavor of your Chocolate Almond Bark. Slivered almonds bring a nice crunch and allow for easy distribution throughout the bark. However, you can also experiment with different cuts like sliced or chopped almonds. If you prefer a more intense almond flavor, try using roasted almonds instead of raw; just be mindful of adjusting the toasting time as they can burn quicker. Additionally, if you want a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a delightful substitute.

When toasting almonds, keep a close eye on them as they can change from perfectly toasted to burnt in a matter of seconds. Aim for a golden-brown color with a fragrant nutty aroma, generally around 3-4 minutes over medium heat. This step adds depth to the flavor profile, complementing the richness of the chocolate beautifully.

Storing and Serving Your Bark

Once your Chocolate Almond Bark has set, it’s important to store it correctly to maintain its texture and flavor. Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you need to prolong its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its freshness for up to a month. However, for optimal taste and texture, let it come back to room temperature before serving as cold chocolate can have a firmer bite.

If you’re looking to share this treat, break the bark into uneven pieces for a rustic presentation. For gifting, you can package the broken pieces in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon. This not only adds a personal touch but also enhances the appeal of the delicious contents. Pairing the bark with some high-quality coffee or tea can create an excellent pairing for your guests or loved ones!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own Chocolate Almond Bark!

Ingredients

8 oz dark chocolate (chopped)
4 oz milk chocolate (chopped)
1 cup slivered almonds
1 tsp sea salt (optional)

Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your delicious Chocolate Almond Bark.

Melt the Chocolate

In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark and milk chocolate. Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until completely melted and smooth.

Toast the Almonds

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the slivered almonds for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat.

Combine and Spread

Once the chocolate has melted, remove it from heat and stir in the toasted almonds. Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread evenly.

Add Sea Salt

If desired, lightly sprinkle sea salt over the top before the chocolate sets.

Chill and Break

Refrigerate for about 1 hour until the bark is set. Once firm, break into pieces and enjoy!

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Almond Bark as a snack or give it as a gift!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding dried fruits or different nuts into the chocolate mixture before chilling for a unique flavor profile.

Variations to Try

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized based on your preferences. Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy contrast to the crunchy almonds. Alternatively, mix in some spices, like cayenne pepper or sea salt with honey, to create a sweet and spicy bark. This adds a unique twist that can surprise your taste buds and make your creation stand out.

For those who enjoy nut-free options, you can create a similar bark by using crushed graham crackers or puffed rice. Just mix them into your melted chocolate before pouring it onto the parchment. This not only provides a different texture but also caters to guests who may have nut allergies.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate didn’t melt properly and remained clumpy, it may have been overheated or mixed with moisture. If you find this happens, try adding a small amount of vegetable oil and reheating gently over the double boiler to salvage it. For future attempts, always ensure that your bowls and utensils are completely dry to prevent seizing.

Another common issue is uneven spreading of chocolate on the baking sheet. Ensure you pour the chocolate while it is still warm for easier spreading. Using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon can help distribute the chocolate evenly, reaching the edges of the baking sheet for a cohesive look.

Questions About Recipes

→ How should I store the Chocolate Almond Bark?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with white chocolate, or even try a different dark chocolate variety.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

You can make it vegan by using dairy-free chocolate and ensuring the almonds are processed without dairy facilities.

→ What can I use instead of almonds?

You can substitute any of your favorite nuts like pistachios, walnuts, or even seeds like pumpkin seeds.