Chocolate Christmas Bark is a simple, festive treat made by layering melted chocolate and topping it with an assortment of holiday add-ins like crushed peppermint, nuts, pretzels, and sprinkles. It’s the ultimate no-bake dessert that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or decorating holiday dessert platters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Christmas bark is endlessly customizable, incredibly easy to make, and requires no baking. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, you can prepare a batch in under an hour. It’s the perfect last-minute holiday treat and a fun project to do with kids. Plus, it stores well, ships beautifully, and looks impressively festive.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dark or semisweet chocolate (chips or chopped bars)
White chocolate (for swirl or drizzle, optional)
Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
Mini pretzels (broken into pieces)
Roasted nuts (such as almonds or pistachios)
Holiday sprinkles or colored sugar
Dried cranberries (optional)
Sea salt flakes (optional)

Directions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the dark or semisweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula to about ¼-inch thickness.
(Optional) Melt white chocolate and drizzle over the dark chocolate. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the two chocolates together for a marbled effect.
Immediately sprinkle the surface with crushed peppermint, nuts, pretzels, dried fruit, and sprinkles as desired.
Lightly press the toppings into the chocolate with the back of a spoon.
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes if using.
Let the bark set at room temperature for 1–2 hours, or refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.
Once fully set, break into uneven shards or cut into squares. Store in an airtight container.

Servings and Timing

Yield: About 20–24 pieces, depending on size
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~45 minutes

Variations

Use milk or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Add crushed cookies (like Oreos or gingersnaps) for texture.
Try a s’mores version with mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces.
Use themed sprinkles for other holidays or occasions.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. If layering, place parchment between pieces to prevent sticking. Do not reheat. Avoid storing in warm or humid areas.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of bars?

Yes, just be sure to melt them gently to avoid scorching or seizing.

How do I melt chocolate without burning it?

Use a microwave in short bursts or a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir frequently and avoid overheating.

Do I need to temper the chocolate?

Not for casual bark, but if you want a glossy finish and snap, tempering is ideal.

Can I freeze chocolate bark?

Yes — freeze in a sealed container with parchment between layers. Thaw in the fridge to avoid condensation.

Why is my bark turning dull or streaky?

This can happen if the chocolate is overheated or exposed to temperature changes. Tempering can prevent this.

Can I add flavor extracts?

Yes — a drop of peppermint, orange, or almond extract adds a festive twist. Stir into the melted chocolate before pouring.

How thick should the bark be?

About ¼ inch is ideal — thick enough to hold toppings, but thin enough to snap easily.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! Topping the bark is a fun and safe activity for children.

How long does it take to set?

At room temperature, 1–2 hours. In the fridge, about 30 minutes.

Is this good for gifting?

Yes. Wrap bark pieces in clear bags or boxes with ribbon. It’s a perfect homemade gift that travels well.

Conclusion

Chocolate Christmas Bark is a festive, foolproof holiday treat that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. Whether you prefer it sweet, salty, or a bit of both, this customizable dessert delivers flavor, texture, and holiday spirit in every bite. Make a batch (or three) and share the joy this season.

Chocolate Christmas Bark with Festive Toppings – A Holiday Classic with Sweet and Salty Add-Ins

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Chocolate Christmas Bark is a festive, no-bake holiday treat made with rich melted chocolate and a colorful mix of sweet and salty toppings like pretzels, candy, and sprinkles. Perfect for gifting, party trays, or snacking all season long.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling)
Yield: 24 pieces 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

16 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped or chips
1/2 cup mini pretzels, broken into pieces
1/3 cup red and green M&M’s or holiday chocolate candies
1/4 cup crushed candy canes
1/4 cup festive sprinkles
Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted.
Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer about 1/4-inch thick.
Immediately sprinkle pretzel pieces, M&M’s, crushed candy canes, and sprinkles evenly over the top.
Lightly press toppings into the chocolate to help them stick. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if using.
Let the bark set at room temperature for several hours, or refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until firm.
Once set, break into pieces and serve or package for gifting.