Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark

Name: Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g milk chocolate, chopped; 50g dried cranberries; 75g mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans); 1 pinch of sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark during the holiday season. It's a delightful sweet treat that combines rich chocolate with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of nuts. This bark is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic gift idea for friends and family. The best part is how versatile it is; you can swap in your favorite nuts or dried fruits, making it unique every time. Just a little melting, mixing, and chilling lead to a mouthwatering snack that everyone will adore!

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:10:09.697Z

When I first created this Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark, I wanted to blend sweet and savory flavors in a simple form. Melting the chocolate is the trick—mild heat ensures it doesn't burn while mixing in the nuts and cranberries creates the perfect texture. My secret? A pinch of salt balances the sweetness nicely and enhances all the flavors.

I've experimented with many variations, but sticking to high-quality chocolate really makes a difference in taste. Each bite of this bark brings a crunch from the nuts paired with delightful bursts of tart cranberries. It’s become our go-to treat for any festive gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with tart cranberries
Crunchy nuts adding texture and depth
Perfect for gift-giving or holiday gatherings

      

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The combination of dark and milk chocolate in this recipe brings depth to the flavor profile. Dark chocolate offers a rich, slightly bittersweet taste, while milk chocolate adds creaminess and sweetness. If you're looking to customize this bark, feel free to experiment with different ratios of dark to milk chocolate. For a minty twist, incorporate a touch of peppermint extract once the chocolate is melted; just be cautious not to overpower the other flavors.

Cranberries provide not only a tangy contrast to the chocolate but also a vibrant pop of color. Look for unsweetened dried cranberries to maintain balance in your bark. If desired, swap cranberries for other dried fruits like apricots or cherries—just remember that each fruit will steeredown the sweetness and tartness of the final product, so judge accordingly. Also, consider finely chopping larger pieces of dried fruit to ensure even distribution throughout the bark.

Mastering the Melting Process

Melting chocolate can be tricky, especially if you’re new to it. I recommend using a double boiler to prevent direct contact with heat, which can lead to burning or seizing. If you don’t have a double boiler, a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water works just as well. Stir frequently and watch for that glossy finish, which indicates that the chocolate is perfectly smooth and ready to work with.

One common issue during the melting process is adding water to the chocolate, which can cause it to seize up. Ensuring all your tools are completely dry will help avoid this problem. If your chocolate does seize, you can try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or cocoa butter to rescue the consistency, but remember that this might slightly alter the final texture of your bark.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious bark:

Ingredients

200g dark chocolate, chopped
100g milk chocolate, chopped
50g dried cranberries
75g mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
1 pinch of sea salt

Gather your ingredients before you start for a smoother process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your own Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark:

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler, melt the dark and milk chocolate together over low heat. Stir continuously until smooth.

Add Cranberries and Nuts

Once melted, remove the bowl from heat and quickly stir in the dried cranberries and mixed nuts until evenly coated.

Spread and Chill

Pour the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top, then refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set.

Break into Pieces

Once set, remove from fridge and break into pieces. Serve immediately or package them for gifts!

Enjoy your homemade treat with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or using white chocolate instead of milk chocolate.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you plan to make it ahead for a holiday gathering, prepare it a few days in advance—just be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain its crispness. Avoid refrigerating the bark as the chocolate may develop condensation that affects its texture.

If you're considering gift-giving, package the bark in decorative boxes or bags. Not only does this make it more visually appealing, but it also helps keep the bark fresher. Layer parchment paper between pieces to prevent sticking, ensuring the presentation remains flawless when your loved ones unwrap their treats.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While Chocolate Cranberry Nut Bark is delicious on its own, you can elevate the experience by serving it with various accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream will contrast nicely with the rich chocolate. Pair it with a warm drink, like hot cocoa or spiced cider, for a cozy treat during chilly evenings.

For a more adventurous twist, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or cayenne into the chocolate before adding cranberries and nuts. This will add a unique flavor dimension that surprises the taste buds. You might also sprinkle in some flaky sea salt on top after spreading the mixture; it enhances the chocolate and gives each bite a sophisticated edge.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any chocolate you prefer, such as white chocolate or even flavored varieties like mocha.

→ How do I store the bark?

Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Just use vegan chocolate and ensure the nuts are also from a vegan-friendly source.

→ What other mix-ins can I use?

You can mix in various dried fruits like apricots, or even sprinkle in some seeds like chia or flaxseeds for extra nutrition.