Save Chili Chocolate Bark is my go-to treat when I want something extraordinary yet simple. With every piece, you get a rush of rich chocolate smoothed by a gentle kick of chili warmth. It is the kind of chocolate everyone talks about for days afterward.
I first shared this at a winter party and watched friends fight over the last shard. It disappeared before dinner was served.
Ingredients
- dark chocolate: choose bars that snap cleanly higher than 70 percent cocoa is best
- chili flakes: add heat and dimension use a fresh jar for bold flavor
- sea salt: enhances chocolate richness choose flaky sea salt for best results
- cocoa powder: dusts the bark and adds silky bitterness
- almonds or pistachios: optional but add crunch select unsalted roasted varieties for texture
Instructions
- Prepare the Chocolate:
- Chop the chocolate bars into small chunks. Place two thirds in a heatproof bowl set over gently simmering water. Stir with patience until glossy and almost melted. Remove from the heat and add the remaining chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. This method tempers the chocolate for a beautiful shine.
- Add the Heat:
- Sprinkle in chili flakes according to your taste. I find a half teaspoon gives a mellow heat but you can use more or less. Stir well so every spoonful has warmth.
- Spread and Top:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Pour the melted chocolate onto it and spread with a spatula into a rough rectangle about a quarter inch thick. Scatter the top with flaky sea salt a dusting of cocoa powder and any nuts you like. Press toppings in gently with your palm.
- Set and Snap:
- Let the bark cool at room temperature for even setting. This prevents streaks and condensation. After one to two hours or until fully set break into shards with your hands. Each piece should have a rustic shape and plenty of toppings.
Save That first hint of chili after a bite of creamy chocolate still surprises my family every time. If you use flaky Maldon salt like I do the contrasts make these pieces irresistible with wine or coffee.
Storage Tips
Keep bark in an airtight container somewhere cool and shaded away from sun or heaters. If your kitchen gets warm put it in the fridge wrapped tightly or the flavors can fade and chocolate might bloom.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in semisweet chocolate chips for dark if you want milder sweetness. Dried cranberries or dried mango make vibrant mix-ins for extra color. If you are nut free try toasted pumpkin seeds or unsweetened coconut flakes instead.
Serving Suggestions
I serve these after spicy meals as a palate-cooling dessert. They break up beautifully for putting out at movie night or tucking into lunchboxes. Pair with coffee for an afternoon treat or wrap in parchment for easy edible gifts.
Cultural Inspiration
Chili and chocolate go together in centuries-old traditions from Mexico where cocoa and spice were a sacred pairing. I love bringing that touch of history to a modern sweet. This simple bark lets you play with bold flavors just as cooks before us once did.
Seasonal Adaptations
add a dusting of cinnamon or ground ginger for a holiday flair fold in dried cherries near Valentine's Day for tartness swap chili flakes for candied orange in spring
Success Stories
Last winter I boxed up big shards of chili bark for my neighbors after a snowstorm. Not a single neighbor came back with leftovers. Now I am asked every holiday if I am making the spicy chocolate again.
Freezer Meal Conversion
This bark freezes perfectly. Lay pieces in a single layer in a bag or container and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to keep the snap and shine.
Save Each shard is both dramatic and delicious for gifting or sharing. Make a batch and watch it disappear faster than you expected.
Common Questions
- → What type of chocolate works best for bark?
High-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate melts smoothly and pairs well with chili flavors.
- → Does chili make the bark very spicy?
Chili can be adjusted for mild to fiery heat, depending on preference and quantity used.
- → Can I add other toppings to the bark?
Absolutely! Nuts, dried fruits, or a sprinkle of sea salt enhance both texture and taste.
- → How should I store finished chocolate bark?
Keep bark in an airtight container at room temperature or chilled for lasting freshness.
- → Is this bark suitable for gifting?
Yes, break into pieces and package attractively for a unique edible gift with spicy flair.
- → Can I use milk chocolate instead?
Milk chocolate can be substituted, but it may result in a sweeter, less spicy contrast.