Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, delight your family and friends with a fun and colorful treat: Holiday Bark. This festive dessert combines sweet vanilla almond bark with a variety of cheerful toppings, making it a perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to make, ensuring that even the busiest of schedules can accommodate this festive snack. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this delightful treat!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 24 ounces vanilla almond bark (680 grams)
– ¼ cup Christmas M&M’s (43 grams)
– ¼ cup multicolored gumdrops (46 grams)
– ½ cup soft peppermint puffs, chopped (45 grams)
– 5 gingerbread cookies, crumbled
– 1 cup pastel-colored mini marshmallows (43 grams)
– Other toppings typically found on a gingerbread house (optional)
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2 hours (for chilling)
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 servings
To create the Holiday Bark, begin by melting the almond bark in the microwave until it’s nice and smooth. Pour this melted goodness onto a lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Next, generously sprinkle on your colorful toppings—Christmas M&M’s, gumdrops, chopped peppermint puffs, crumbled gingerbread cookies, and mini marshmallows. After pressing them down gently, let the mixture firm up in the refrigerator. Once it’s set, break the bark into pieces and store them away for an irresistible festive snack! Enjoy sharing these sweet treats this holiday season!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Almond Bark
Melt the almond bark in the microwave in 60-second increments. Stir the mixture between each interval to ensure even melting. The entire process should take about 2 minutes until the bark is smooth.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with wax paper to prevent the bark from sticking. Make sure the wax paper is smooth and covers the entire surface of the baking sheet.
Step 3: Spread the Melted Bark
Pour the melted almond bark over the lined baking sheet. Using an offset spatula or a spoon, spread the melted bark evenly to create a uniform layer across the wax paper.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the Christmas M&M’s, multicolored gumdrops, chopped peppermint puffs, crumbled gingerbread cookies, mini marshmallows, and any other desired toppings over the melted almond bark. Gently press down on the toppings to ensure they stick to the bark.
Step 5: Chill the Bark
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and allow the bark to chill until it is fully firm. This process should take about 2 hours.
Step 6: Break and Store the Bark
Once the bark is set and firm, remove it from the refrigerator. Break the bark into pieces of your desired size and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
Storage Tips
Ensure the container is sealed well to keep the bark fresh. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Customization Options
Feel free to add other toppings that you might typically use for making gingerbread houses, such as icing or chocolate chips, to enhance the flavor and visual appeal of your bark.
Serving Suggestions
This festive bark makes for a great treat during holiday gatherings or as a gift during the season. Enjoy it as a sweet snack or use it as a decorative element on a dessert table.
Cook techniques
Melting Chocolate
Melt the almond bark in the microwave in 60-second increments. Stir between intervals for a smooth consistency.
Line Baking Sheet
Prepare a large baking sheet by lining it with wax paper to prevent the bark from sticking.
Spreading the Bark
Pour melted almond bark onto the lined sheet and use an offset spatula or spoon to create an even layer.
Adding Toppings
Sprinkle your chosen toppings over the melted bark and gently press them down for proper adherence.
Chilling the Bark
Refrigerate the bark until firm, allowing for a better texture when broken into pieces.
Breaking the Bark
Once set, break the bark into desired shapes or sizes for easy serving and storage.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of almond bark?
Yes, you can substitute almond bark with other types of chocolate, but melting times and texture may vary.
How should I store the finished bark?
Store the broken bark in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
What other toppings can I use?
You can use a variety of toppings like nuts, dried fruits, or different candies based on your preference.
How long does the bark last?
When stored properly, the bark can last for up to two weeks.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Look for dairy-free chocolate alternatives to make the recipe suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Conclusion
This festive treat combines the sweetness of vanilla almond bark with a delightful variety of toppings, making it a perfect holiday snack or gift. The mixture of textures and flavors, from the crunch of M&M’s to the chewiness of gumdrops and the refreshing bite of peppermint, creates a delightful experience in every piece. Enjoy sharing this colorful, easy-to-make bark during the holiday season!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Nut Bark
Combine melted dark chocolate with mixed nuts, dried cranberries, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a more decadent treat.
Caramel Pretzel Bark
Melt chocolate and mix with crushed pretzels, drizzled caramel sauce, and topped with coarse sea salt for a sweet-salty snack.
Fruit and Nut Bark
Use white chocolate and mix in dried fruits like apricots and figs along with nuts such as pistachios for a healthy twist.
Peanut Butter Candy Bark
Melt chocolate and swirl in creamy peanut butter, then top with chopped peanuts and mini chocolate chips for a delightful combination.
Trail Mix Bark
Melt milk chocolate and blend in a variety of trail mix nuts, seeds, and chocolate pieces for an energy-boosting snack.
