Chocolate bark is an easy, flexible kitchen project. This small batch uses 200 grams of chocolate and about half a cup of toppings. Allow around 15 minutes to prepare it, plus time to set.

Gather your ingredients

You will need 200 grams of your preferred plain chocolate, half a cup of chopped candy, pretzels, or dried fruit, and a lined baking tray. Choose toppings that you enjoy together and check ingredient labels if you are sharing.

Melt gently

Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a dry, microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 20 seconds at a time, stirring between intervals, until almost melted. Stir to melt the last pieces. The bowl may be hot, so handle it carefully.

Make it yours

Spread the melted chocolate over baking parchment in a layer about 5 millimeters thick. Scatter the toppings over the surface and press them in gently. Leave a little room between pieces so the chocolate is easy to break.

Set, snap, and share

Chill until firm, then break into pieces. Keep the bark in a covered container in a cool place and follow the storage guidance for your ingredients. Because this quick method does not temper the chocolate, it may soften at room temperature.

A little more joy in every bite.