Name: Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe
Prep time: 11 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 48
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups walnut; 9 oz bittersweet chocolate; 1 cup dried sour cherries; 2 tbsp crystallized ginger

Dark-chocolate bark with walnuts and dried cherries is a delightful treat that combines the richness of bittersweet chocolate with the crunch of toasted walnuts and the tanginess of dried cherries. The addition of crystallized ginger adds a surprising burst of flavor, making this an irresistible snack or dessert.

Photos of Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe

If you don't usually stock your pantry with crystallized ginger, you might need to look for it in the baking aisle or the section with dried fruits and nuts at your supermarket. This ingredient, along with dried sour cherries, adds a unique twist to the recipe and can be found in specialty stores or larger grocery chains.

Ingredients for Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

Walnut: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch when toasted.

Bittersweet chocolate: Provides a deep, intense chocolate flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients.

Dried sour cherries: Brings a tart and chewy element to the bark, balancing the sweetness of the chocolate.

Crystallized ginger: Offers a spicy-sweet kick, enhancing the overall taste profile of the bark.

One reader, Gabriel Otto says:

This dark-chocolate bark with walnuts and dried cherries is a delightful treat! The bittersweet chocolate pairs perfectly with the crunchy walnuts and tangy cherries. The hint of crystallized ginger adds a unique twist. It's easy to make and perfect for satisfying sweet cravings. Highly recommend!

Gabriel Otto

Techniques Required for Making Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

How to toast walnuts: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet, and toast for 8 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Let cool, then coarsely chop.

How to melt chocolate in a microwave: In a glass bowl, heat ⅔ of the chocolate in a microwave oven at high power in 30-second bursts until just melted. Stir until smooth, then add the remaining chocolate and stir until melted.

How to line a baking sheet: Use parchment or wax paper to line the baking sheet to prevent the chocolate bark from sticking.

How to refrigerate chocolate bark: Scrape the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spread it into a 12x8-inch rectangle, and refrigerate for 10 minutes or until firm enough to cut.

How To Make Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

Bittersweet and crunchy, this dark chocolate bark is a four-ingredient dessert for any occasion. Crystallized ginger adds a hint of spice to this treat.

Preparation: 11 minutes

Cooking: 9 minutes

Cool Time: 10 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupswalnut,(6 oz) halves
9ozbittersweet chocolate
1cupdried sour cherries,(4 oz)
2tbspcrystallized ginger,finely chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 8 minutes or until golden and fragrant. Let cool, then coarsely chop.
Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
In a glass bowl, heat ⅔ of the chocolate in a microwave oven at high power in 30-second bursts until just melted. Stir until smooth.
Add the remaining chocolate and stir until melted.
Stir in the walnuts, cherries, and crystallized ginger until evenly coated.
Scrape the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into a 12×8-inch rectangle. Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until firm enough to cut.
Cut the bark into 48 pieces (6 rows by 8 rows) and transfer to a plate. Serve cold or at room temperature.
Make-Ahead: The bark can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Nutrition

Calories: 29.83kcal
Fat: 1.69g
Saturated Fat: 0.95g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.54g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.11g
Carbohydrates: 4.29g
Fiber: 0.38g
Sugar: 3.65g
Protein: 0.28g
Sodium: 1.26mg
Calcium: 2.45mg
Potassium: 25.87mg
Iron: 0.18mg
Vitamin A: 2.07µg
Vitamin C: 0.32mg

Technique Tip for Making Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

When melting chocolate in the microwave, make sure to stir it frequently to prevent overheating and ensure a smooth texture. If you prefer, you can use a double boiler to melt the chocolate more gently and avoid any risk of burning.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Dark Chocolate Bark

Pre-toast walnuts: Toast walnuts in bulk ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. This saves you from preheating the oven each time.

Use microwave efficiently: Melt chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts to avoid burning and save time compared to using a double boiler.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop walnuts, dried cherries, and crystallized ginger in advance and store them separately in airtight containers.

Line baking sheet ahead: Prepare your baking sheet with parchment or wax paper before starting to melt the chocolate to streamline the process.

Batch make: Double or triple the recipe and store the extra chocolate bark in an airtight container for future use.

Substitute Ingredients For Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe

walnut - Substitute with pecans: Pecans have a similar texture and slightly sweeter flavor, making them a good alternative to walnuts.
walnut - Substitute with almonds: Almonds provide a crunchy texture and a mild, nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
bittersweet chocolate - Substitute with semisweet chocolate: Semisweet chocolate has a similar cocoa content but is slightly sweeter, which can balance the tartness of the dried cherries.
bittersweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate with a high cocoa content can be used for a more intense chocolate flavor.
dried sour cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries have a similar tartness and chewy texture, making them a suitable replacement.
dried sour cherries - Substitute with dried blueberries: Dried blueberries offer a sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture that works well in the recipe.
crystallized ginger - Substitute with candied orange peel: Candied orange peel provides a sweet and slightly bitter citrus flavor that complements the chocolate and nuts.
crystallized ginger - Substitute with dried apricots: Dried apricots add a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, along with a chewy texture, enhancing the overall taste.

Presenting Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that the bittersweet chocolate, walnuts, dried sour cherries, and crystallized ginger are of the finest quality to elevate the overall taste and texture.
Create a uniform thickness: Spread the chocolate mixture evenly on the parchment-lined baking sheet to achieve a consistent thickness, ensuring each piece has a balanced mix of ingredients.
Incorporate texture and color: Garnish the top of the chocolate bark with a few extra pieces of walnuts, dried cherries, and crystallized ginger before refrigerating. This adds visual appeal and enhances the texture.
Cut with precision: Use a sharp knife to cut the bark into uniform pieces. Aim for clean, straight lines to give a professional and polished look.
Serve on elegant platters: Arrange the chocolate bark pieces on a sleek, modern platter. Consider using a dark-colored plate to contrast with the rich tones of the chocolate and highlight the vibrant cherries and ginger.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the chocolate bark with edible gold leaf or gold dust to give it a luxurious finish, perfect for impressing culinary professionals.
Pair with complementary flavors: Serve the dark-chocolate bark alongside a small glass of port wine or a cup of espresso to enhance the tasting experience.
Highlight the ingredients: Provide a small card or menu that lists the key ingredients, emphasizing the use of bittersweet chocolate, walnuts, dried sour cherries, and crystallized ginger. This adds an educational element and showcases the thoughtfulness behind the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Dark Chocolate Bark

oven: Used to toast the walnuts to bring out their flavor and make them golden and fragrant.
baking sheet: Utilized to spread the walnuts for toasting and later to spread the chocolate mixture.
parchment paper: Lined on the baking sheet to prevent the chocolate bark from sticking.
glass bowl: Used to melt the chocolate in the microwave safely.
microwave oven: Employed to melt the chocolate in short bursts to avoid burning.
spatula: Handy for stirring the chocolate until smooth and for mixing in the walnuts, cherries, and crystallized ginger.
knife: Necessary for coarsely chopping the toasted walnuts.
cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the walnuts.
refrigerator: Used to firm up the chocolate bark so it can be cut into pieces.
plate: For transferring and serving the cut pieces of chocolate bark.

Storing and Freezing Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

Store the dark chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will help maintain its texture and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors.
For longer storage, place the bark in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. This will keep the chocolate firm and prevent the walnuts from turning rancid.
If you want to store the bark for an extended period, freezing is a great option. Wrap the bark tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen chocolate bark, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, remove the bark from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before unwrapping and serving.
When storing or freezing, it's essential to keep the bark away from strong-smelling foods, as chocolate can easily absorb odors. This will help preserve the delicate flavors of the dark chocolate, walnuts, and dried cherries.

Random Fact about Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries

A fun fact about this dark-chocolate bark recipe is that bittersweet chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids and less sugar compared to milk chocolate, making it a healthier option. Additionally, walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and dried sour cherries are packed with antioxidants, making this treat not only delicious but also nutritious.

Is Making Dark Chocolate Bark at Home Cost-Effective?

This dark-chocolate bark with walnuts and dried cherries recipe is moderately cost-effective. The main ingredients—bittersweet chocolate, walnuts, dried sour cherries, and crystallized ginger—can be a bit pricey, but they yield a luxurious treat. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20. Given its rich flavors and the ability to store it for up to 2 weeks, it offers good value. Overall Verdict: 7/10.

Is Dark Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Healthy?

This dark chocolate bark recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Here's a breakdown:

Healthy ingredients:

Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein
Dark chocolate: Contains antioxidants and may have cardiovascular benefits when consumed in moderation
Dried sour cherries: Good source of vitamin C and antioxidants

Less healthy ingredients:

Crystallized ginger: High in sugar content

While the recipe includes some nutritious ingredients, it's important to note that it is still a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation due to the high calorie and sugar content of dark chocolate and crystallized ginger.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of crystallized ginger or replace it with fresh ginger for a less sugary option
Use a higher percentage of dark chocolate (70% or above) to minimize sugar content
Incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients, such as:
- Pumpkin seeds for additional protein, iron, and zinc
- Unsweetened dried fruits like apricots or figs for added fiber and natural sweetness
- A sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor without increasing sugar intake

Remember, the key to enjoying this treat is moderation and balance within an overall healthy diet. Savor each bite mindfully and pair it with other nutrient-rich foods to create a well-rounded snack or dessert experience.

Editor's Opinion on This Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe

This dark-chocolate bark with walnuts and dried cherries is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The bittersweet chocolate provides a rich base, while the toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch. The dried sour cherries offer a tangy contrast, and the crystallized ginger introduces a subtle warmth and spice. It's a sophisticated treat that's easy to prepare and perfect for gifting or indulging. The make-ahead option is convenient, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious bark anytime.

Enhance Your Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety butternut squash soup, its sweetness and earthy tones perfectly complementing the rich, dark chocolate bark. The creamy texture of the soup will contrast beautifully with the crunchy walnuts and chewy dried cherries.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: Envision tender asparagus spears wrapped in savory prosciutto, offering a delightful salty contrast to the sweet and bitter notes of the dark-chocolate bark. The crisp asparagus and succulent prosciutto create a harmonious balance of flavors.

Citrus Arugula Salad: Picture a refreshing arugula salad with vibrant citrus segments, toasted almonds, and a light vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and zesty citrus will cleanse your palate, making each bite of the chocolate bark even more delightful.

Spiced Sweet Potato Fries: Visualize sweet potato fries seasoned with a hint of cinnamon and paprika. Their sweet and spicy flavors will play off the bittersweet chocolate and crystallized ginger in the bark, creating a symphony of tastes.

Berry Compote: Imagine a luscious berry compote made from a mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. The tartness and natural sweetness of the berries will enhance the richness of the dark chocolate, making for a truly indulgent experience.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Dark Chocolate Bark

White Chocolate Cranberry Pistachio Bark: Indulge in the creamy sweetness of white chocolate paired with the tartness of dried cranberries and the crunch of pistachios. This bark is a delightful treat that's perfect for the holidays or any special occasion.

Dark Chocolate Almond Sea Salt Bark: Experience the perfect balance of rich dark chocolate with the nutty flavor of almonds and a hint of sea salt. This bark is a sophisticated and satisfying snack that will leave you craving more.

Milk Chocolate Pretzel Toffee Bark: Combine the smoothness of milk chocolate with the crunch of pretzels and the buttery sweetness of toffee. This bark is an irresistible blend of sweet and salty flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Triple Nut Dark Chocolate Bark: Dive into a trio of nuts—almonds, pecans, and hazelnuts—all enveloped in luscious dark chocolate. This bark is a nut lover's dream, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Spicy Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Seed Bark: Add a kick to your chocolate bark with a touch of cayenne pepper and the earthy flavor of pumpkin seeds. This unique bark is perfect for those who love a bit of spice with their sweet treats.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Dark Chocolate Bark

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine large, juicy portobello mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is creamy and rich, with a hint of spice from red pepper flakes. Topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and baked until golden brown, these mushrooms are a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear quickly!

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to impress. Start with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil and rubbed with garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of sweetness and acidity, perfectly balancing the flavors. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs with the smoky taste of the grill. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. This marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, making it juicy and tender. Once grilled to perfection, the chicken is served with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, making it a healthy and satisfying main course. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, offering a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef, turkey, or chicken), rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. This filling is cooked until the flavors meld together, then stuffed into the peppers and baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is hot and bubbly. Topped with a sprinkle of cheese and a garnish of fresh herbs, these stuffed peppers make a hearty and satisfying meal. They can be served with a side of salad or crusty bread, making them a versatile option for any dinner table.

Why trust this Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavor of bittersweet chocolate with the crunch of walnuts and the tartness of dried sour cherries. The addition of crystallized ginger adds a unique, spicy twist. Toasting the walnuts enhances their flavor, making each bite more delicious. The method ensures the chocolate is perfectly melted and smooth, providing a professional-quality finish. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delightful treat that can be enjoyed for days.

Want to share your experience making this Dark-Chocolate Bark with Walnuts and Dried Cherries Recipe? Join the discussion in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing when melting it in the microwave?

Make sure the bowl and utensils are completely dry, as even a small amount of water can cause the chocolate to seize. Also, melt the chocolate in short 30-second bursts and stir in between to ensure it melts evenly without overheating.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or even pistachios. Just make sure to toast them as you would with the walnuts to bring out their flavor.

What can I use if I don't have crystallized ginger?

If you don't have crystallized ginger, you can leave it out or substitute it with a small amount of finely chopped candied orange peel or even a pinch of ground ginger for a different flavor twist.

How do I store the chocolate bark to keep it fresh?

Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure it's well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of bittersweet chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter bark. Just keep in mind that milk chocolate has a different melting point, so you might need to adjust the melting process slightly to avoid burning it.