Chocolate Bark with Cherries and Pistachios Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate bark with cherries and pistachios is a delightful treat combining rich dark and creamy white chocolate with tart dried cherries and crunchy pistachios. It’s easy to make and perfect for gifting or snacking.

Ingredients

• 8 oz 60% cacao dark chocolate (Ghirardelli Bitter Sweet Baking Bar, 2 bars of 4 oz each)
• 6 oz white chocolate (Ghirardelli Chocolate Baking Bar)
• 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped, salted and roasted
• 1/4 cup dried cherries, cut in halves

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare your workstation by placing a large piece of parchment paper on the counter and securing it with tape to prevent movement. Chop the pistachios and halve the dried cherries, then set them aside.
2. Step 2: Chop both types of chocolate into small, even pieces for easier melting.
3. Step 3: Stove Top Method: Melt all of the dark chocolate over low heat in a double boiler. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment paper. Clean the bowl and melt the white chocolate using the same double boiler method.
4. Step 4: Microwave Method: Place one-third of the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 30 seconds, then stir thoroughly. Repeat heating and stirring in 30-second intervals twice more. If not fully melted, heat in 15-second bursts, stirring vigorously for 10–15 seconds each time. Add the remaining dark chocolate pieces and stir until smooth. Repeat this process for the white chocolate.
5. Step 5: Use a rubber spatula to transfer the melted dark chocolate onto the parchment paper. Spread evenly with an offset spatula to about 1/4 inch thick. Add dollops of white chocolate on top and swirl with a toothpick or chopstick for a marbled effect.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and dried cherries evenly over the chocolate. Let the bark cool and harden at room temperature.
7. Step 7: Once set, break or cut the bark into chunks. Store in an airtight container.

Tips & Variations

• For a smoother finish, temper your chocolate properly by stirring continuously while melting and cooling.
• Try adding other toppings like shredded coconut, sea salt, or almonds for extra flavor and texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter bark, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate.

Storage

Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator where it will last up to one month. Bring to room temperature before serving to enhance flavor and texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of chocolate for this bark?

Yes, you can substitute any good-quality chocolate you prefer, such as milk or semi-sweet chocolate. Just keep in mind that varying cocoa content will affect the flavor and sweetness.

How do I prevent the chocolate from blooming after it sets?

Properly tempering the chocolate before spreading helps prevent bloom—a whitish coating caused by cocoa butter separating. Also, avoid storing in warm or humid environments.

Chocolate Bark with Cherries and Pistachios Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8–10 as a snack or dessert 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this elegant and easy-to-make Chocolate Bark with Cherries and Pistachios. Combining rich 60% cacao dark chocolate and creamy white chocolate swirled together, this delightful treat is topped with salted roasted pistachios and sweet dried cherries for a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sophisticated snack, this no-bake dessert requires simple melting techniques and minimal prep time.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate

• 8 oz 60% Cacao Dark Chocolate, Ghirardelli Bitter Sweet Baking Bar (2 x 4 oz bars)
• 6 oz White Chocolate, Ghirardelli Chocolate Baking Bar

Toppings

• 1/4 cup pistachios, roughly chopped, salted and roasted
• 1/4 cup dried cherries, cut in halves

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Instructions

1. Prepare Workspace: Lay a large piece of parchment paper on your countertop and secure it with tape to prevent movement. Chop the pistachios roughly and halve the dried cherries, setting them aside for topping.
2. Chop Chocolates: Roughly chop both the dark and white chocolates into small, even pieces to ensure they melt smoothly and evenly.
3. Melt Dark Chocolate (Stovetop Method): Set up a double boiler on the stove by placing a heatproof bowl over a pot of gently simmering water. Melt all of the dark chocolate over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
4. Melt White Chocolate (Stovetop Method): Clean the bowl, then melt the white chocolate over the double boiler using the same method as the dark chocolate, stirring until smooth.
5. Alternative Microwave Melting Method: Place 1/3 of the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 30 seconds. Stir thoroughly, then repeat heating and stirring in 30-second intervals until mostly melted. For final melting, heat in 15-second bursts if necessary. Add the remaining dark chocolate pieces to the melted portion and stir vigorously to temper and achieve a smooth finish. Repeat this process for the white chocolate.
6. Spread and Swirl Chocolate: Using a rubber spatula, transfer the melted dark chocolate onto the taped parchment paper. Spread evenly to about 1/4-inch thickness using an offset spatula. Dollop melted white chocolate on top and use a toothpick or chopstick to create decorative swirls by gently mixing the two chocolates together.
7. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped pistachios and halved dried cherries evenly over the spread chocolate.
8. Set and Store: Allow the chocolate bark to cool and harden at room temperature. Once firm, cut or break into chunks. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Notes

• Tempering chocolate by stirring in unmelted pieces ensures a glossy finish and prevents blooming.
• Use parchment paper to easily lift the bark after it hardens.
• Experiment with other nuts or dried fruits for variation.
• If melting chocolate in microwave, avoid overheating to prevent seizing.
• This bark is best served at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: chocolate bark, dark chocolate, white chocolate, pistachios, dried cherries, easy dessert, no bake, holiday treat, chocolate treat