Loaded Christmas Bark
If you’re looking to spread some festive cheer this holiday season, there’s nothing quite like a batch of Loaded Christmas Bark to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces. This delightful treat combines a medley of sweet and salty flavors, creating the perfect indulgence for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. With layers of chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and colorful M&Ms, this Loaded Christmas Bark is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat that embodies the essence of the season.
Why This Loaded Christmas Bark Stands Out
What makes this Loaded Christmas Bark a standout dessert? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The rich, dark chocolate serves as the base, while the crunchy pretzels and salted peanuts add a delightful contrast. The vibrant holiday M&Ms sprinkle a pop of color and sweetness, making it not just delicious but also incredibly festive. Furthermore, a drizzle of white chocolate and a sprinkle of colorful holiday sprinkles elevate this bark into a truly special treat that’s perfect for sharing.
Shopping List
- 12 Oreos, quartered
- About 1 ½ cups pretzels, coarsely chopped or broken
- 1 cup salted peanuts
- 1 pound dark chocolate, coarsely chopped (or use semi-sweet)
- 1 cup holiday M&Ms (plain, peanut, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- 3 tablespoons holiday sprinkles (or as many as desired)
Equipment at a Glance
- Baking sheet: To spread the bark mixture.
- Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bark once set.
- Microwave-safe bowls: For melting the chocolate.
- Spatula: To mix and spread the ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerator: For setting the bark quickly.
Loaded Christmas Bark: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface. This will help prevent the bark from sticking, making it easy to lift off once set.
Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the coarsely chopped dark chocolate. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat; chocolate can burn easily.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the quartered Oreos, coarsely chopped pretzels, and salted peanuts until everything is well coated with chocolate.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring all ingredients are distributed throughout the bark.
Step 5: Add M&Ms and White Chocolate
Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the holiday M&Ms over the top, followed by drizzling the white chocolate chips (previously melted) over the bark. Use a fork or a spoon to create a decorative swirl if desired.
Step 6: Sprinkle with Holiday Cheer
Finish by adding the holiday sprinkles on top for a final festive touch.
Step 7: Chill to Set
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely hardened.
Step 8: Break and Enjoy
Once set, lift the bark off the parchment paper and break it into pieces. Serve immediately or store for later.
Ingredient Flex Options
- Substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Use gluten-free pretzels if you have dietary restrictions.
- Try different nut varieties such as cashews or almonds instead of peanuts.
- Opt for various flavors of M&Ms, or even chocolate-covered raisins for a unique twist.
Insider Tips
- Make sure to chop the chocolate evenly for consistent melting.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step; it ensures proper setting and makes the bark easier to break.
- Feel free to customize your Loaded Christmas Bark with your favorite candies or nuts.
- For a fun twist, consider adding crushed candy canes for a minty flavor.
Save It for Later
Loaded Christmas Bark can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it even longer, consider refrigerating it. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. This makes it a perfect make-ahead treat for holiday gifting or snacking!
Handy Q&A
Can I use other types of chocolate?
Absolutely! While dark chocolate provides a rich flavor, you can easily substitute with milk chocolate or white chocolate for a sweeter taste. Just be mindful that the melting times may vary slightly.
How can I keep the M&Ms from sinking into the chocolate?
To prevent M&Ms from sinking, sprinkle them on top right after spreading the chocolate mixture on the baking sheet. This way, they’ll stick to the surface before the chocolate sets.
Is it necessary to use Oreos?
No, it’s not necessary! You can replace Oreos with any chocolate cookie or even graham crackers for a different flavor and texture.
Can I add more ingredients to my Loaded Christmas Bark?
Absolutely! This recipe is very flexible. You can add dried fruits, additional nuts, or even flavored chips like butterscotch or peanut butter for an extra kick.
What to Make After This
Let’s Eat
This Loaded Christmas Bark is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of the season captured in a deliciously crunchy, sweet, and salty confection. Whether you’re indulging by the fire, sharing with friends at a holiday gathering, or gifting a batch to your neighbors, this bark is sure to be a hit. With its vibrant colors and festive crunch, each bite brings a taste of holiday joy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the festivities begin!
Loaded Christmas Bark
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Step 2: Melt the Dark Chocolate - In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the coarsely chopped dark chocolate. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and fully melted.
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients - Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the quartered Oreos, coarsely chopped pretzels, and salted peanuts until everything is well coated with chocolate.
- Step 4: Spread the Mixture - Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Step 5: Add M&Ms and White Chocolate - Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle the holiday M&Ms over the top and drizzle the melted white chocolate.
- Step 6: Sprinkle with Holiday Cheer - Finish by adding the holiday sprinkles on top for a final festive touch.
- Step 7: Chill to Set - Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely hardened.
- Step 8: Break and Enjoy - Once set, lift the bark off the parchment paper and break it into pieces.
Notes
- Chop chocolate evenly for consistent melting.
- Don’t skip refrigeration; it ensures proper setting.
- Customize with your favorite candies or nuts.
