Pistachio, Salted Caramel, and Oreo Dark Chocolate Bark
Bark is fast, easy, foolproof, and you can add whatever odds and ends are lurking in your pantry and this bark is a texture lover’s dream. The smooth, rich chocolate that melts in your mouth is in contrast with the slightly salty pistachios and crunchy Oreos. The caramels are buttery, creamy, and add chewiness. There are so many flavor and texture combinations in every bite and the more you eat, the more you want. Customize the bark based on your favorite toppings and what you have on hand. It makes great hostess gifts or gifts for friends, teachers, and neighbors.
16ouncesdark chocolate1 pound; I used TJ’s Dark Chocolate Pound Plus Barabout 20 small caramel squares, unwrapped and diced small (if you can find salted caramels I recommend them, but regular may be used)6 to 8 Oreo cookies, roughly chopped about 3/4 cup shelled, lightly salted pistachios (unsalted may be substituted)
generous pinch of sea salt for sprinklingoptional and to taste
Instructions
Line a baking tray with parchment paper; set aside. Before beginning to melt the chocolate, have all the ingredients chopped, prepped, and ready to go so that they’re ready to be added while the chocolate is hot and melty.
Coarsely chop the chocolate or break into chunks to encourage smooth melting. Place chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high power to melt, about 2 to 3 minutes, stopping every 15 seconds to check and stir until it can be stirred smooth. Be careful not to scorch it; or use a double boiler.
Pour melted chocolate onto parchment and with a spatula or offset knife, smooth into a large rectangle, about 10×15-inches, and about 1/8-inch thick; just eyeball. Reserve 1 to 2 tablespoons in the bottom of the bowl for final chocolate drizzle; set aside.
Evenly sprinkle with caramels, Oreos, pistachios, and sea salt to taste.
Evenly drizzle with reserved 1 to 2 tablespoons chocolate; optional but helps ‘glue’ the toppings down and adds visual appeal.
Allow chocolate to set up for at least 3 hours at room temp, or in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
After chocolate has set, break into pieces or chop with a knife. Bark will keep airtight at room temp for many weeks and in the fridge or freezer for many months.