Chocolate Almond Bark

Name: Chocolate Almond Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 pieces
Ingredients: 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup almonds, chopped; Sea salt, for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Almond Bark because it perfectly balances rich chocolate and crunchy almonds, creating a delightful treat that always impresses. Whenever I prepare it for friends or family, they're amazed at how easy it is to make yet how gourmet it tastes. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a batch in no time, and the satisfaction of breaking off a piece of this bark never gets old. It's the perfect indulgence for any occasion, and I find myself reaching for it often!

Created by

Jenna Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-06T00:52:09.715Z

When I first tried making Chocolate Almond Bark, I was amazed by how simple it was to achieve such a beautiful result. The secret is in the quality of the chocolate; using a good semi-sweet chocolate makes all the difference. After melting the chocolate and mixing it with almonds, I pour it onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. A few careful taps on the counter help level it out perfectly.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the creativity it allows. You can easily customize it by adding different types of nuts or by drizzling white chocolate on top for an extra touch of elegance. I often try it with sea salt on top too, which adds a fantastic contrast to the sweetness!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy almonds
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Customizable with different nuts and toppings

      

Mastering the Chocolate Melting Process

Melting chocolate seems simple, but proper technique is key to achieving that velvety texture without burning it. Use a microwave-safe bowl and start with small 30-second intervals, as high heat can quickly spoil the chocolate, making it seize up. Stir well after each interval and aim for a glossy finish; it should be smooth and just melted, not hot. If you notice any lumps, continue to stir gently, as the residual heat will help melt them in.

If you prefer a stovetop method, use a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring constantly. This double boiler method provides more control over the heat and is less likely to scorch the chocolate. Remember to keep the bottom of the bowl from making direct contact with the water to avoid overheating the chocolate.

Choosing and Preparing Your Almonds

The type of almonds you use can significantly affect the flavor and texture of your Chocolate Almond Bark. For a more intense nutty flavor, opt for roasted almonds, which can be found pre-roasted or easily roasted at home. Simply spread raw almonds on a baking sheet and toast them at 350°F (175°C) for around 10-12 minutes, until they’re fragrant and golden. Be vigilant, as nuts can burn quickly!

Chopping your almonds not only makes for a satisfying crunch but also allows them to be more evenly coated in chocolate. A rough chop is sufficient, but if you prefer, you can leave some whole for added visual appeal. Combine different nuts or even add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Storing and Serving Your Bark

Once your Chocolate Almond Bark is set and broken into pieces, how you store it is critical for maintaining freshness. It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. However, if your environment is warm or humid, refrigeration is advisable to prevent melting. Just make sure to allow it to come back to room temperature before serving, as the chocolate can become too firm when chilled.

When it comes to serving, there are many delightful ways to enjoy your bark. Consider pairing it with fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, to contrast the richness of the chocolate. It also makes a fabulous gift when packaged in a clear bag with a ribbon. If you're looking to wow guests after a dinner, serve pieces as an elegant, handheld treat alongside coffee or dessert wine.

Ingredients

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup almonds, chopped
Sea salt, for sprinkling

Make sure to use good quality chocolate for the best flavor!

Instructions

Melt the chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth.

Mix in almonds

Once melted, stir in the chopped almonds until they are fully coated in chocolate.

Spread the mixture

Pour the chocolate-almond mixture onto a lined baking sheet and spread it out evenly.

Add sea salt

Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before refrigerating.

Chill and break

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until set, then break into pieces and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add dried fruits or different types of nuts for a unique twist!

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about Chocolate Almond Bark is its adaptability. You can easily customize the flavors by substituting different types of chocolate; try dark or white chocolate for a completely different taste. Adding a hint of flavor can elevate your bark; consider incorporating sea salt, vanilla extract, or even a dash of espresso powder to the melted chocolate for a richer depth.

For additional crunch and flavor, mix in other ingredients before spreading the chocolate on the baking sheet. Dried fruits, such as cranberries or apricots, chopped pretzels for a sweet-salty combination, or various seeds can all add a unique twist to this recipe. Don't hesitate to get creative – this bark is the perfect basis for sweet experimentation!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your chocolate seized during melting, don’t panic; this can happen if water gets into the bowl. Unfortunately, there’s no fix for seized chocolate. However, you can prevent it by making sure all your equipment is completely dry and avoiding any moisture in the chocolate during the melting process. If you do mistakenly introduce water, you’ll need to start over with new chocolate.

Another common issue is the bark not setting properly. Ensuing conditions, like heat or too little chocolate in proportion to almonds, can affect how it hardens. Make sure your mixture is spread evenly and isn’t too thick, as a thicker layer can take longer to cool. If it’s a particularly humid day, refrigerating it longer can help achieve that perfect snap you’re aiming for.

Scaling the Recipe Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for any quantity you need. To successfully increase the batch size, maintain the ratio of chocolate to almonds to ensure the texture and flavor remain consistent. For instance, if you want to double the recipe, use 16 oz of chocolate and 2 cups of almonds while ensuring your baking sheet is large enough to accommodate the spread.

Conversely, if you're looking to make a smaller batch, reducing the recipe is just as simple. However, I suggest sticking to at least half the original quantities to maintain a workable amount of chocolate for melting. Use a smaller baking sheet to avoid a thin layer of chocolate which might set incorrectly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter taste.

→ How should I store the chocolate bark?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply use dairy-free chocolate to make it vegan.

→ What other toppings work well?

Try adding dried fruit, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of white chocolate for extra flavor!