Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A festive assortment of Christmas bark featuring various toppings like candy canes, cranberries, pistachios, caramel, gummy bears, and colorful M&Ms, displayed on a wooden platter with holiday decorations in the background.

Easy Christmas Bark Recipe – A Festive No-Bake Holiday Treat


  • Author: Monica
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling)
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Christmas bark recipe is a simple, festive, and customizable holiday treat that’s perfect for gifting, parties, or cozy nights at home. Made with rich melted chocolate and topped with crushed candy canes, nuts, dried fruit, and sprinkles, this no-bake dessert is as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you prefer classic peppermint bark or want to get creative with your toppings, this easy recipe will bring holiday cheer to your dessert table!


Ingredients

Scale

Base Chocolate:

  • 12 oz (340g) dark chocolate (high-quality, chopped)
  • 12 oz (340g) white chocolate (high-quality, chopped)
  • 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting)

Toppings:

  • ½ cup (50g) crushed candy canes
  • ¼ cup (30g) chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup (30g) dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup (30g) chopped pistachios
  • ¼ cup (30g) mini pretzel pieces
  • 2 tbsp festive sprinkles

Instructions

1. Preparation

  1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Gather all ingredients and have toppings ready for quick assembly.

2. Melting Chocolate

  1. Double Boiler Method: Place chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir continuously until smooth. Repeat for white chocolate in a separate bowl.
  2. Microwave Method: Heat chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Avoid overheating.

3. Spreading & Toppings

  1. Pour melted dark chocolate onto the lined baking sheet and use a spatula to spread evenly.
  2. Drizzle melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate, then swirl gently with a toothpick for a marbled effect.
  3. Sprinkle crushed candy canes, nuts, dried fruit, pretzels, and sprinkles evenly over the chocolate while it’s still warm. Lightly press the toppings so they adhere.

4. Cooling & Breaking

  1. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours or until completely set.
  2. Once firm, break into rustic pieces using your hands or cut with a knife for clean edges.

5. Serve & Store

  1. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for extended freshness.

Notes

  • Flavor Variations: Swap dark chocolate for milk chocolate, or add caramel drizzle for a salted caramel version.
  • Vegan Option: Use dairy-free chocolate and replace candy canes with coconut flakes.
  • Sugar-Free Option: Use sugar-free chocolate and naturally sweetened dried fruit.
  • Texture Tip: A mix of crunchy and chewy toppings makes the best bark!
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (~1.5 oz)
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Keywords: Christmas bark, holiday chocolate bark, peppermint bark, easy no-bake dessert, festive chocolate recipe