Holiday Bark Shard Display

Featured in: Afterglow Suppers

This festive chocolate bark combines rich dark and smooth white chocolate, swirled for a marbled effect, and topped with crushed peppermint candies, roasted pistachios, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, and optional sprinkles.

After spreading and layering the chocolates, press the toppings gently into the warm surface, chill until fully set, then break into elegant shards perfect for gifting or holiday gatherings.

Easy to prepare, gluten-free options, and customizable with nuts or citrus zest for added flavor nuances.

Updated on Wed, 10 Dec 2025 14:52:00 GMT
Festive holiday bark shards with crushed peppermint, perfect for a delicious chocolate dessert. Save It
Festive holiday bark shards with crushed peppermint, perfect for a delicious chocolate dessert. | sunnyspoonful.com

A festive and eye-catching chocolate bark, loaded with colorful toppings and broken into elegant shards—perfect for gifting or as a centerpiece for your holiday dessert table.

I first served this...

Ingredients

  • Chocolate Base: 400 g high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa), chopped, 200 g white chocolate, chopped
  • Toppings: 60 g crushed peppermint candies, 60 g roasted, salted pistachios, roughly chopped, 60 g dried cranberries, 40 g toasted coconut flakes, 2 tbsp festive sprinkles (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2:
Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (double boiler), or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring until smooth.
Step 3:
Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer about 0.5 cm thick using a spatula.
Step 4:
Melt the white chocolate in a separate bowl using the same method.
Step 5:
Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer, then use a skewer or knife to swirl for a marbled effect.
Step 6:
Immediately sprinkle the peppermint candies, pistachios, cranberries, coconut flakes, and sprinkles evenly over the chocolate.
Step 7:
Gently press toppings into the chocolate so they adhere.
Step 8:
Refrigerate for at least 40 minutes, or until fully set.
Step 9:
Once set, break the bark into irregular shards and arrange on a platter for serving or packaging.
A beautiful display of homemade holiday bark, studded with pistachios and cranberries, ready to enjoy. Save It
A beautiful display of homemade holiday bark, studded with pistachios and cranberries, ready to enjoy. | sunnyspoonful.com

Storing this bark in an airtight container keeps the holiday spirit fresh for up to two weeks, perfect for sharing with family.

Required Tools

Large baking sheet, parchment paper, heatproof bowls, spatula, knife or skewer

Allergen Information

Contains milk (chocolate), tree nuts (pistachios), and coconut. May contain soy (in chocolate). Double-check all toppings for gluten and nut contamination if needed.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 230, Total Fat: 14 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 3 g per serving

Crisp and colorful holiday bark recipe, showcasing a mix of chocolate and vibrant, sweet toppings. Save It
Crisp and colorful holiday bark recipe, showcasing a mix of chocolate and vibrant, sweet toppings. | sunnyspoonful.com

This holiday bark is the perfect blend of crunchy textures and festive flavors to brighten any dessert table.

Recipe FAQs

How do I achieve the marbled effect with two chocolates?

Melt both the dark and white chocolates separately, pour the dark chocolate layer first, then drizzle the white chocolate on top. Use a skewer or knife to gently swirl the white into the dark, creating a marbled pattern.

Can I substitute the toppings for other ingredients?

Yes, you can replace pistachios with almonds or pecans and use gluten-free candies or sprinkles to suit dietary preferences or availability.

What is the best way to break the bark into shards?

Once the bark is fully chilled and set, use your hands or a sturdy knife to break it into irregular, shard-like pieces for an elegant presentation.

How should this chocolate bark be stored?

Keep the bark in an airtight container in a cool place to maintain freshness, ideally consuming it within two weeks for best flavor and texture.

Are there allergen considerations I should be aware of?

This bark contains milk, tree nuts such as pistachios, and coconut; check individual toppings for any potential gluten or nut contamination if needed.

Can I add extra flavors to enhance the bark?

Adding a pinch of flaky sea salt or orange zest on top before chilling can add a delightful contrast and depth of flavor.

Holiday Bark Shard Display

Chocolate bark featuring dark and white chocolate layers with vibrant peppermint, nuts, and dried fruits toppings.

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
5 mins
Total Duration
20 mins
Authored by Lana Bright

Recipe Type Afterglow Suppers

Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Style American

Recipe Yield 12 Serving Size

Diet Preferences Vegetarian-Friendly, Free From Gluten

What You'll Need

Chocolate Base

01 14 oz high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa), chopped
02 7 oz white chocolate, chopped

Toppings

01 2.1 oz crushed peppermint candies
02 2.1 oz roasted, salted pistachios, roughly chopped
03 2.1 oz dried cranberries
04 1.4 oz toasted coconut flakes
05 2 tbsp festive sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Step 01

Prepare baking surface: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

Melt dark chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave at 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Step 03

Spread dark chocolate: Pour the melted dark chocolate onto the baking sheet and spread evenly to a thickness of about 0.2 inches using a spatula.

Step 04

Melt white chocolate: Melt the white chocolate in a separate heatproof bowl using the same method until smooth.

Step 05

Create marbled effect: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the dark chocolate layer and swirl with a skewer or knife to achieve a marbled appearance.

Step 06

Add toppings: Evenly sprinkle peppermint candies, pistachios, dried cranberries, coconut flakes, and optional sprinkles over the chocolate surface.

Step 07

Set toppings: Press toppings gently into the chocolate so they adhere well.

Step 08

Chill: Refrigerate the chocolate for at least 40 minutes or until completely firm.

Step 09

Serve: Break the set chocolate bark into irregular shards and arrange them on a platter for serving or gifting.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Heatproof bowls
  • Spatula
  • Knife or skewer

Allergy Information

Review each ingredient to identify potential allergens, and consult a healthcare professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk (chocolate), tree nuts (pistachios), and coconut. May contain soy. Check toppings for gluten and nut cross-contamination.

Nutrition Details (Per Serving)

This nutritional data is for reference only and isn't a substitute for medical advice.
  • Caloric Value: 230
  • Fats: 14 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 23 grams
  • Proteins: 3 grams