A beautifully seasonal chocolate bark topped with jewel-bright fruits, warming spices, and a touch of Christmas sparkle. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or breaking up for party nibbles.

You’ll Need (makes 1 large festive slab)

250g high-quality dark chocolate (we recommend Valrhona, Callebaut or Luker)

Festive toppings:

Crushed pistachios (green & perfect for Christmas)

Dried cranberries or cherries

Candied orange peel

A pinch of warming spice – cinnamon, nutmeg or mixed spice

Optional extras – edible gold, silver pearls, mini gingerbread pieces, sea salt

Baking paper or silicone mat

Spatula

How to Make

1. Prepare your tray

Line a baking tray with baking paper or a silicone sheet. Lay out your toppings so you’re ready to decorate quickly.

2. Temper your dark chocolate (Microwave Method)

Chop your chocolate into even-sized pieces and place in a microwave-safe plastic bowl.

Heat for 20 seconds, then stir. Continue in 10–15 second bursts, stirring well each time.

Stop when roughly a third is still solid.

Keep stirring until smooth — the residual warmth should melt the remaining pieces while keeping it under 32°C.

3. Spread your festive bark

Pour the tempered chocolate onto your tray and spread to about 3–4mm thickness. A natural, rustic shape looks beautifully artisanal.

4. Decorate with festive toppings

While the chocolate is still glossy, scatter your pistachios, cranberries, orange peel and spices evenly.

Tip: Add a pinch of cinnamon over the top for a warm, Christmassy aroma.

For an elegant finish, dot with edible gold or silver pearls.

5. Leave to set

Let the bark set at room temperature for 30–45 minutes. Once firm, break into rustic shards.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Keeps beautifully for up to two weeks.

Our Canny Tips...

Festive flavour ideas:

Cranberry, Pistachio & Orange – classic Christmas colours

Gingerbread & Milk Chocolate – cosy and sweet

Mixed Spice & Almond – warm and aromatic

Add edible gold leaf for a luxurious Christmas gift.

Wrap shards in a clear bag with a branded sleeve for the perfect seasonal stocking filler.