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The Best New Years Chocolate Bark Cookies

The Best New Years Chocolate Bark Cookies

The Best New Years Chocolate Bark Cookies are a festive and delicious treat featuring layers of dark, milk, and white chocolate swirled together and topped with peppermint candies, nuts, dried fruits, and sea salt flakes. Easy to prepare and customizable, these bark cookies offer a beautiful mosaic appearance and a delightful combination of flavors and textures perfect for celebrating the New Year with friends and family.

Ingredients

Chocolate Assortment

  • Dark chocolate bars (quantity as desired, approx. 6 oz)
  • Milk chocolate bars (quantity as desired, approx. 6 oz)
  • White chocolate bars (quantity as desired, approx. 6 oz)

Festive Mix-ins

  • Peppermint candies, halved (about 1/2 cup)
  • Chopped nuts (such as almonds or pecans, about 1/2 cup)
  • Dried cranberries or other dried fruits (about 1/2 cup)
  • Sea salt flakes (to taste)

Additional Ingredients

  • Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
  • Non-stick parchment paper (enough to line baking sheet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Line a large baking sheet with non-stick parchment paper to ensure the chocolate bark sets neatly and lifts off easily without sticking or breaking.
  2. Melt the Chocolate: In separate bowls, melt the dark, milk, and white chocolates using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Melting them separately helps maintain distinct colors.
  3. Layer the Chocolates: Spread the melted dark chocolate evenly over the parchment-lined baking sheet. Then spoon and gently swirl the milk and white chocolates on top to create a beautiful marbled effect that adds flavor variety.
  4. Add Festive Mix-ins: Immediately sprinkle peppermint halves, chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and sea salt flakes evenly over the chocolate. Press gently to help them adhere while keeping texture intact.
  5. Set and Break: Let the bark cool at room temperature or refrigerate for about 20 minutes until fully set. Once firm, break the bark into cookie-sized pieces perfect for sharing and enjoying.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality chocolate for smooth melting and richer flavor.
  • Control temperature carefully to avoid overheating and grainy chocolate.
  • Add toppings immediately after swirling to ensure they stick well without sinking.
  • Use fresh peppermint candies and dried fruits for the best flavor and appearance.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
  • For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to three months.
  • No reheating necessary; serve cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition

Keywords: New Years, chocolate bark, bark cookies, holiday cookies, festive treat, gluten free, easy dessert, peppermint, nuts, dried fruit