Dark Chocolate Orange Almond Bark For Snacking: Zesty, Nutty, Perfectly Crisp

Chocolate is a beloved sweet cherished all across the world for its rich, dark, and comforting flavor. The most common way to savor chocolate is in the form of barks, which lets you enjoy the chocolatey richness in little bites for a lasting fun. When chocolate bars are enhanced with more delightful additions like almonds, dry fruits, and citrus fruits, the flavor becomes more interesting and memorable. Bringing the citrus punch to the traditional chocolate almond bark, this recipe introduces the orange flavor to give a gourmet and unconventional twist to the traditional recipe. When a contrasting flavor, such as orange, is added to dark chocolate, every bite becomes a flavorful rollercoaster. With this recipe, you can create a perfect, fun treat to savor at any time of day when you crave something sweet yet different. Check out the detailed recipe with tips and variations below and make dark chocolate orange bark with almonds at home today!

Step-By-Step Recipe For Dark Chocolate Orange Bark With Almonds:

Ingredients:

• 200g dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
• 1 tsp orange zest - organic
• ½ tsp orange extract- for extra flavor (optional)
• ½ cup roasted almonds, roughly chopped
• A pinch of sea salt
• 1 tsp coconut oil or butter

Method:

Step 1: Prepare the Base:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. It is essential to prepare the tray before starting the recipe so that you don’t delay the process of spreading the chocolate while it is still hot. Prepare the nuts by lightly toasting them in a dry pan over low heat for about 3 to 4 minutes, until they are just aromatic. You can also add a little butter for extra flavor. After roasting, let the nuts cool completely.

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate:

Set up a double boiler by heating some water in a saucepan. Place the chopped chocolate in a heat-safe bowl and place the bowl on top of the heating saucepan. Make sure the bowl doesn't touch the water, allowing the steam to rise freely. Allow the steam to settle at the bottom of the bowl; the heat from the steam will melt the chocolate. Stir the chocolate to melt it evenly without burning. Add some coconut oil or butter for smoothness and glossiness.

Alternatively, you can also melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to ensure even melting.

Step 3: Add the Orange Flavor:

Once the chocolate is melted, bring it to room temperature and mix in orange zest and orange extract. Adding orange flavor directly into chocolate will enhance its richness without causing the chocolate to seize. This will also ensure that the citrus aroma is locked in beautifully. Stir the chocolate well to mix the orange flavor and distribute it evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Bark:

Now it is time to assemble the bark. Pour the melted chocolate and orange mixture into the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula. The layer should be about ¼ inch thick, allowing you to enjoy the crunch while keeping every bite wholesome and satisfying. A thinner layer will not provide an enjoyable experience, and a thicker layer will be difficult to bite.

Once the chocolate is spread, immediately top it with a sprinkle of toasted almonds evenly. Press the almonds firmly so they stick to the chocolate. After sprinkling almonds, add a small pinch of sea salt to bring a contrast and naturally enhance the sweetness.

Step 5: Set and Serve:

Refrigerate the chocolate for 20 to 30 minutes, or until it is fully set and hardened. Do not remove the chocolate before it is hard, or it will melt at room temperature and form white streaks, which can ruin the flavor. Once it is solid, break the bark into uneven pieces for a rustic look. Store the bark in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy it for up to 1 week for lasting enjoyment.

Tips & Variations To Try With Dark Chocolate Orange Bark With Almonds:

1. Swap almonds for pistachios, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor. Any nut variation will bring a whole new flavor to the barks that pairs differently with the orange contrast.
2. Add dried cranberries or candied orange peel for an extra touch of texture and sweetness. Extra fruity additions will enhance the citrusy punch of oranges and the rich darkness of chocolate.
3. Use tempered chocolate for a crispy and glossy finish. If the chocolate is not tempered, it will cause white streaks when frozen. Tempered chocolate is always the best choice when making chocolate barks. When tempered chocolate is used, the chocolate bark snaps with one clean break and does not come apart in crumbles.