Spicy chocolate bark with chipotle and almonds is an indulgent treat that balances rich chocolate, smoky chipotle heat, and crunchy almonds. This unique dessert is perfect for gifting, snacking, or adding a gourmet twist to your dessert table. Quick to make and utterly irresistible, it’s a must-try for chocolate lovers who enjoy a little spice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Unique Flavor: Combines sweet, smoky, and spicy in every bite.
- Easy to Make: A quick dessert with minimal ingredients.
- Perfect Texture: Creamy chocolate paired with crunchy almonds.
- Customizable: Adjust the heat or add other toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Dark chocolate (semi-sweet or bittersweet), chopped
- Almonds, roasted and roughly chopped
- Chipotle chili powder
- Sea salt
- Optional toppings: shredded coconut, dried cranberries, or candied orange peel
Directions
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chopped dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler for gentle melting.
- Add the Spice: Stir in chipotle chili powder, starting with 1/4 teaspoon. Adjust to your desired level of heat.
- Spread the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer, about 1/4-inch thick.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped almonds and a pinch of sea salt evenly over the chocolate. Add any optional toppings if desired.
- Set the Bark: Let the chocolate cool at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes until firm.
- Break into Pieces: Once set, break the chocolate into irregular pieces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 12 pieces
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Different Nuts: Substitute almonds with pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts.
- Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an additional kick.
- Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
- Fruity Twist: Add dried cherries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze the bark in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: This bark is best enjoyed as is and does not require reheating.
FAQs
1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but the bark will be sweeter and less intense.
2. What’s the best way to roast almonds?
Spread almonds on a baking sheet and roast at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through.
3. How do I adjust the spice level?
Start with a small amount of chipotle chili powder and add more to taste.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free dark chocolate to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
5. What’s the purpose of sea salt?
Sea salt enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and complementing the spice.
6. Can I add white chocolate drizzle?
Absolutely! Drizzle melted white chocolate over the bark for a decorative touch.
7. How do I prevent the chocolate from blooming?
Ensure the chocolate is melted evenly and cooled at room temperature for a smooth finish.
8. Can I use raw almonds?
Yes, but roasting them first enhances their flavor and crunch.
9. How do I get clean, sharp pieces when breaking the bark?
Chill the bark thoroughly before breaking it with your hands or cutting it with a sharp knife.
10. What pairs well with this spicy chocolate bark?
Serve with red wine, dark roast coffee, or hot cocoa for a perfect pairing.
Conclusion
Spicy chocolate bark with chipotle and almonds is a sophisticated treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of rich chocolate, smoky spice, and crunchy almonds creates a unique dessert that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo. Customize it to your liking and indulge in a gourmet twist on traditional chocolate bark!
PrintSpicy Chocolate Bark with Chipotle and Almonds
This Spicy Chocolate Bark with Chipotle and Almonds is a bold and flavorful treat that combines rich dark chocolate, crunchy almonds, and a smoky kick of chipotle. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or satisfying your sweet-and-spicy cravings, it’s a simple yet sophisticated dessert.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon chipotle chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for warmth)
- 1/2 cup (75 g) roasted almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup (25 g) dried cranberries or cherries (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt flakes (for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Line a Baking Sheet:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Chop the Chocolate:
- Finely chop the chocolate to ensure even melting.
Melt the Chocolate:
- Melt Using a Double Boiler:
- Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler). Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
Or Use a Microwave:
- Microwave the chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted.
Flavor the Chocolate:
- Add Spices:
- Stir in the chipotle chili powder and cinnamon (if using). Adjust the spice level to your taste.
Assemble the Bark:
- Spread the Chocolate:
- Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the chopped almonds, dried cranberries (if using), and sea salt evenly over the chocolate. Gently press the toppings into the chocolate to help them stick.
Cool and Set:
- Chill:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and let the chocolate bark set completely, about 30 minutes.
- Break into Pieces:
- Once set, use your hands or a knife to break the bark into irregular pieces.
Notes
- Storage: Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Customize Toppings: Try adding pumpkin seeds, pistachios, or shredded coconut for variation.
- Adjust Heat: For a milder version, reduce the chipotle chili powder, or replace it with smoked paprika for a smoky but less spicy option.