Description
Valentine Bark is a delightful layered chocolate treat perfect for celebrating love. This recipe combines smooth semi-sweet and white chocolate bases, topped with a crunchy and colorful mix of crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, heart-shaped sprinkles, red and pink M&M’s, and a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast. Easy to make and perfect for gifting or sharing, this festive bark captures the spirit of Valentine’s Day in every bite.
Ingredients
Chocolate Layers
- 12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 12 oz. white chocolate chips
Toppings
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
- ½ cup heart-shaped sprinkles
- ½ cup red and pink M&M’s
- ¼ cup chopped nuts (optional)
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to ensure easy removal of the bark once set.
- Melt Semi-Sweet Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips by heating in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval until smooth and fully melted.
- Spread Semi-Sweet Chocolate Base: Pour the melted semi-sweet chocolate onto the lined baking sheet and spread evenly using a spatula to create the base layer.
- Chill Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate base is completely set and firm to the touch.
- Melt White Chocolate: While the semi-sweet chocolate is chilling, melt the white chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl using the same 30-second interval method, stirring in between until smooth.
- Spread White Chocolate Top Layer: Once the semi-sweet chocolate base has set, pour the melted white chocolate evenly over the top to create the second layer.
- Add Toppings: Immediately sprinkle the crushed pretzels, mini marshmallows, heart-shaped sprinkles, red and pink M&M’s, and optional chopped nuts evenly over the white chocolate layer. Gently press the toppings down to ensure they adhere well.
- Sprinkle Sea Salt: Add a pinch of sea salt evenly over the toppings to enhance flavor with a subtle salty contrast.
- Final Chill: Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator for an additional 15 minutes to allow all layers and toppings to fully set.
- Break Into Pieces: Once fully firm, remove the bark from the parchment paper and break or cut it into desired pieces or squares for serving or gifting.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality chocolate chips for a smooth finish.
- You can customize toppings based on your preferences or dietary restrictions.
- Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and crisp.
- Let the bark sit at room temperature a few minutes before serving to soften slightly and enhance flavors.