Valentines Treats Chocolate Bark

Name: Valentines Treats Chocolate Bark
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 16 pieces
Ingredients: 2 cups milk chocolate chips; 1 cup white chocolate chips; 1/2 cup dried strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup mixed nuts, roughly chopped; Sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making Valentines Treats Chocolate Bark because it's one of those simple recipes that always impresses. The mix of creamy chocolate with colorful toppings makes it an eye-catching dessert to share with loved ones. Plus, it takes just minutes to prepare, which is perfect when I'm short on time but still want to create something special. With its delightful combinations of flavors and textures, this bark is sure to be a hit for any celebration, especially on Valentine's Day.

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:43:13.242Z

When I first experimented with chocolate bark, I was amazed by how versatile it is. With just a few ingredients, I was able to create a treat that not only looks beautiful but tastes incredible too! One of my favorite combinations is milk chocolate with dried strawberries and nuts, which adds a sweet and crunchy element that perfectly complements the chocolate.

I learned that tempering the chocolate is key to achieving that nice snap when you break the bark, and it really enhances the overall experience. If you're pressed for time, you can also use quality melting chocolate to skip the tempering step.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate paired with vibrant fruit and nut toppings.
Customizable with your favorite flavors and textures.
Quick to prepare and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

      

Choosing the Right Chocolates

The success of your Valentines Treats Chocolate Bark hinges on the quality of the chocolate you choose. I recommend using high-quality chocolate chips that melt smoothly, as this ensures a glossy finish and a creamy texture. Milk chocolate contributes a classic sweetness, while the white chocolate adds a beautiful contrast, both visually and taste-wise. If you prefer a darker chocolate flavor, feel free to substitute semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for the milk chocolate; just be mindful that this can alter the overall sweetness of the bark.

Proper melting is crucial for achieving the right texture. When microwaving the chocolate, be cautious not to overheat it. Chocolate typically melts at a low temperature, so keeping the intervals to 30 seconds while stirring is perfect. If you notice your chocolate hardening instead of staying glossy, it may have seized. In this case, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil to help regain smoothness, although this is a rare issue if you monitor the process closely.

Topping Options and Variations

The beauty of this chocolate bark lies in its versatility. While the recipe calls for dried strawberries and mixed nuts, you can easily swap these out for your favorite toppings. For a tropical twist, try using dried mango or coconut flakes. Alternatively, crushed pretzels add a delightful crunch and salty contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. Keep in mind that the moisture content in some toppings might affect the bark’s texture, so aim for dried or toasted ingredients.

If you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, consider using vegan chocolate chips and nuts for a dairy-free version. When it comes to presenting the bark, feel free to use themed sprinkles that match your occasion, such as heart-shaped for Valentine’s Day. Cut the bark into fun shapes using cookie cutters for an extra festive touch or package them in decorative bags to share as gifts.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups milk chocolate chips
1 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup dried strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup mixed nuts, roughly chopped
Sprinkles or edible glitter for decoration

Feel free to substitute or add your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Melt the Chocolates

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Do the same with the white chocolate chips in a separate bowl.

Spread the Milk Chocolate

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the melted milk chocolate onto it. Using a spatula, spread it into an even layer about 1/4 inch thick.

Add Toppings

Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the milk chocolate layer. Then, sprinkle the chopped dried strawberries, mixed nuts, and colorful sprinkles on top.

Chill and Serve

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate has set completely. Once firm, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool place.

Pro Tips

For different flavors, try using dark chocolate, or adding toppings like crushed cookies, coconut flakes, or even sea salt for a sweet-salty twist.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the great aspects of chocolate bark is that it can be made ahead of time. I often prepare it a day or two in advance and simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the chocolate from softening and maintains its structure while allowing the flavors to meld together. Make sure to separate layers of bark with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

If you're planning on storing the bark for more than a week, consider freezing it. Place the pieces in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and they should last up to three months. To enjoy, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it softens slightly and is ready to eat.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your chocolate has begun to harden before spreading it, you may need to reheat it gently. Do this in short bursts to avoid overheating. Alternatively, if the chocolate has not set properly in the fridge, it may be due to excess moisture from the toppings. To avoid this, ensure that any fruits or nuts added are thoroughly dried. Patting wet toppings dry with a paper towel can be an effective preventative measure.

Another common issue is unevenly set chocolate. To ensure even setting, spread the melted chocolate into a uniform thickness. A thicker layer may take longer to cool completely; therefore, it’s ideal to maintain a thickness of about 1/4 inch. If you encounter issues while breaking the bark into pieces, using a sharp knife can also help you get clean edges and defined pieces, making for a more polished presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give the bark a richer flavor, and you can adjust the sweetness with different toppings.

→ How long does the chocolate bark last?

Homemade chocolate bark can last up to two weeks if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

→ Can I add different types of nuts?

Yes! Feel free to use any nuts you prefer, such as almonds, walnuts, or peanuts for unique flavor combinations.

→ What should I do if the chocolate hardens before I finish adding toppings?

If the chocolate hardens, simply microwave it again in short intervals until it softens, then continue adding your toppings.