If you crave a sweet treat that’s simple to make, you’ll love this Chocolate Covered Strawberry Bark recipe! With just a few ingredients like dark chocolate chips and strawberries, you can create a delicious snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying alone. I’m excited to guide you through the easy steps to whip up this delightful bark. Let’s dive in and turn your kitchen into a dessert wonderland!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces dark chocolate chips
- 1 cup dried strawberries (or freeze-dried)
- ½ cup slivered almonds
- ¼ cup coconut flakes (unsweetened)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Serving Size
- Makes 12 pieces
Each ingredient plays a key role in the taste and look of the bark. The dark chocolate chips offer a rich base. Dried or freeze-dried strawberries add a sweet and tangy flavor. Slivered almonds give a nice crunch. Coconut flakes bring a hint of tropical flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt adds depth. Optionally, coconut oil can make the chocolate smooth and glossy.
This recipe yields 12 pieces of delicious bark, perfect for sharing or enjoying yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Baking Sheet
Start by lining your baking sheet with parchment paper. This step makes it easy to lift the bark off later. You want to make sure the paper covers the whole sheet so nothing sticks.
Melting the Chocolate
Take a microwave-safe bowl and add 12 ounces of dark chocolate chips. If you like, add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil for a smoother finish. Heat the bowl in your microwave for 30 seconds. After that, take it out and stir. Repeat this until the chocolate is totally melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1 to 2 minutes total. Be careful not to overheat it.
Assembling the Bark
Now, pour the melted chocolate onto your lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to about a ¼-inch thickness. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of dried strawberries, ½ cup of slivered almonds, and ¼ cup of coconut flakes on top. Press them down gently into the chocolate so they stick well. To finish, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for extra flavor.
Setting the Bark
Let your chocolate bark cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. After that, place the baking sheet in the refrigerator. Chill it for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm and set. Once it’s ready, break the bark into pieces that suit your taste. Enjoy your tasty treat!
Tips & Tricks
Melting Chocolate Considerations
Melting chocolate can be tricky. You want to avoid seizing or burning it. Here are some tips to help:
- Use a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat in 30-second bursts.
- Stir each time to check the texture.
- If chocolate gets too thick, add a little coconut oil.
- Be patient; slow melting keeps it smooth.
Customizing Your Bark
You can make this bark your own. Here are some fun ideas:
- Try different toppings like nuts or seeds.
- Add dried fruits such as apricots or cherries.
- Use white or milk chocolate instead of dark.
- Mix in spices, like cinnamon, for a kick.
- Get creative! Your bark can reflect your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Make your bark look festive when serving. Here are some tips:
- Use a decorative platter for a nice touch.
- Arrange it with fresh strawberries for color.
- Cut the bark into fun shapes or sizes.
- Dust with extra coconut flakes for flair.
- Enjoy sharing this treat at parties or gatherings!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can switch up the chocolate for your bark. Try using white or milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate. Each type gives a different taste. White chocolate adds a sweet and creamy flavor. Milk chocolate is rich and smooth. These options can change the whole vibe of the treat. Feel free to mix and match, based on your mood or what you have on hand.
Topping Alternatives
You can get creative with your toppings too. Instead of just strawberries, try nuts like walnuts or pecans. Dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can add a chewy bite. You could even sprinkle some spices like cinnamon for a warm twist. The choices are endless, so have fun with it!
Dietary Modifications
If you need to follow special diets, you can easily adapt this recipe. For a vegan version, swap dark chocolate chips for dairy-free chocolate. Use a plant-based topping instead of slivered almonds. To make it gluten-free, just check that your toppings are safe. These simple changes let everyone enjoy this tasty treat!
Storage Info
How to Store
Store your chocolate covered strawberry bark in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. You can use a glass jar or a plastic container with a tight lid. Make sure to layer the bark with parchment paper. This prevents sticking.
Shelf Life
The bark stays fresh for up to two weeks. If you keep it in the fridge, it may last longer. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. If it smells off or has a weird texture, toss it out.
Freezing Options
Yes, you can freeze chocolate bark! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then put it in a freezer bag. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat it, let it thaw at room temperature. Enjoy it cold or at room temp!
FAQs
How do I make chocolate covered strawberry bark?
Making chocolate covered strawberry bark is easy and fun. First, gather your ingredients. You need dark chocolate chips, dried strawberries, slivered almonds, coconut flakes, and sea salt. You can add coconut oil for a smooth texture if you want.
Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Then, melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Once smooth, pour the chocolate onto the baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about ¼ inch thick.
Next, sprinkle dried strawberries, slivered almonds, and coconut flakes over the melted chocolate. Lightly press the toppings in. Finish by adding a pinch of sea salt for flavor. Let it cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, chill it in the fridge for about an hour until set. Break the bark into pieces, and enjoy!
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of dried?
You can use fresh strawberries, but there are pros and cons. Fresh strawberries add great flavor and color, but they have more moisture. This moisture can make the chocolate soggy and affect the bark’s texture.
Dried strawberries have a chewy texture and concentrate their sweetness. They also stay crunchy when mixed with chocolate. If you choose fresh strawberries, slice them thin and dry them on paper towels to reduce moisture.
Why is my chocolate not setting properly?
If your chocolate isn’t setting, it could be due to moisture. Even a small amount can cause issues. Make sure your bowl and baking sheet are completely dry.
Another reason could be overheating the chocolate. If you burn the chocolate, it can seize and become thick. Always melt it slowly in short intervals. If your chocolate is not setting, try placing it in the fridge for longer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chocolate covered strawberry bark ahead of time. It stores well in an airtight container. Just keep it in a cool, dry place.
The bark stays fresh for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap the pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw the pieces at room temperature.
You’ve learned how to make tasty chocolate bark. We covered the main ingredients and the fun toppings you can try. Followed my simple steps, you can melt your chocolate, mix in your favorites, and let it set. Remember, you can customize it to fit your taste. Whether you want it sweet or crunchy, you have choices. Store it well, and enjoy it for weeks. Cooking can be fun and creative, so get started and make your own chocolate bark today!
