Chocolate Almond Bark Recipe

By Lauren Kelp 
on October 19th, 2024
In: Recipes

Hello, hello my hostesses with the most! Lauren here from thoughtful living and entertaining site, LaurenKelp.com and today we are bringing down the house. I mean, call your friends, and clear the schedule, because we’ve got one heck of a party planned! Can you guess what it is?

It’s a CANDY MAKING PARTY! That’s right, folks, four party-planning steps, one killer chocolate almond bark recipe & you’ve got yourself one heck of a party!

We are sharing the party planning how-to’s over on LaurenKelp.com, so feel free to hop on over for a few tips on hosting, goodie bag ideas, and a fun recipe card!

Chocolate Almond Bark with Wine

But, before we have a candy-making party, we have to have a killer candy recipe, am I right? Luckily, this chocolate almond bark came into our lives and it’s been a family favorite. It’s fast & easy, takes 45 minutes start to finish, serves 16 people, and take a look at the ingredient list... it’s nothing! Bet you have most of that in your pantry anyway. What could be better?

Chocolate Almond Bark

Chocolate Almond Bark

Recipe Type: Dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chopped almonds
  • 2 cups milk chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon shortening
  • Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Instructions

  1. Pour yourself a big ol’ glass of Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon & let’s get to baking!
  2. Line a 9x13 inch-baking pan with parchment paper and set aside. Put chopped almonds in a skillet and cook over medium high heat, until golden brown & remove from heat. PRO TIP: you want to stir often so the almonds don’t burn!
  3. Melt your chocolate chips and shortening in a metal bowl over a pan of simmering water. Stir every once and a while to break up any bits.
  4. Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in half of the toasted almonds. Spread onto the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle with remaining almonds, and chill 30 minutes, or until solid.

Now, how freaking easy was that?! Okay, here comes the best part – the wine. When you think of perfect pairings, you probably think of peanut butter and jelly, milk and cereals, and, every adult’s favorite, chocolate and wine! Pair this chocolate bark with a glass (or two!) of Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and prepare to be pleasantly surprised.

Tips for Perfect Bark Texture

Achieving that glossy, snappy chocolate bark isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s all in the technique! Here are a few pro tips to ensure your bark looks and tastes amazing:

  • Don’t rush the melting: Melt the chocolate chips and shortening over low heat or a double boiler to prevent seizing and keep it silky-smooth. Stir occasionally for an even texture.
  • Even spreading: Once the chocolate is melted, spread it evenly in your prepared pan using an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. This ensures a uniform thickness, which is key for neat, breakable pieces.
  • Chilling time matters: Let the bark chill completely in the refrigerator (about 30 minutes or more) before breaking into pieces. This helps the bark harden evenly for a satisfying snap and easy serving.

Get Creative: Other Fun Add-Ins for Your Chocolate Bark

While almonds add a lovely crunch and nuttiness, feel free to swap them out or add extra fun ingredients to customize your bark. Here are a few ideas:

  • Dried fruit: Cranberries, cherries, or apricots for a chewy, tart contrast.
  • Sea salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt on top balances the sweetness.
  • Coconut flakes: Adds a tropical touch.
  • Spices: A dash of cinnamon, chili powder, or even espresso powder for a unique twist.
  • Other nuts: Try pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans for different flavor profiles.

Encourage your guests to get creative with their own bark combinations—it’s a guaranteed party hit!

Chocolate Almond Bark with red wine

The Cabernet Sauvignon's notes of black cherry and vanilla pair so well with the nutty flavors in the chocolate almond bark, it’s like magic. The Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet is truly one of my favorite wines. We always have a few bottles on hand when entertaining & it never fails to impress our guests.

So friends, what do you think? Ready to host your own candy-making party?! We can’t wait to see!

Happy hosting, my friends!