Chocolate Pistachio Bark

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Bark
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao); 1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I first tried making Chocolate Pistachio Bark at home, I was amazed at how easy and rewarding it was. Combining rich, melted chocolate with crunchy pistachios creates a symphony of flavor and texture. I love how customizable this recipe is; you can add different toppings or even flavors to suit your taste. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or simply indulging in a sweet treat on your own!

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:58:11.889Z

Making Chocolate Pistachio Bark was a delightful experiment that transformed my kitchen into a sweet haven. The moment I melted the dark chocolate, the rich aroma filled the air, making it hard to resist taste-testing along the way. I found that mixing in the chopped pistachios right before pouring the chocolate onto the baking sheet helped them stick beautifully, ensuring every bite was a great blend of flavors.

The best part about this bark is that it sets in only 30 minutes in the fridge, making it an ideal last-minute dessert. I love adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top right before it sets, which enhances the chocolate's depth and contrasts perfectly with the nutty pistachios!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients
Perfect for gifts or festive occasions

      

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Choosing high-quality dark chocolate is essential for this recipe, as it forms the backbone of the flavor profile. Look for chocolate that contains at least 70% cacao for a rich, intense taste that pairs beautifully with the earthy notes of the pistachios. If you prefer a sweeter bark, you can opt for semi-sweet chocolate, but it’s crucial to balance it with the salt to enhance the overall flavor.

Pistachios not only add crunch but also provide healthy fats, protein, and a unique flavor. Toasting the pistachios before adding them to the chocolate can deepen their nuttiness. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, until they become fragrant and slightly golden. Allow them to cool before chopping to prevent them from clumping in the warm chocolate.

Techniques for Perfect Bark

When melting chocolate, consistency is key. Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals to prevent the chocolate from seizing. Stir between intervals, and stop heating as soon as the chocolate is mostly melted, allowing residual heat to finish melting it. Properly melted chocolate should be glossy and smooth—not grainy or thick, which can happen if it overheats or burns.

Pouring the chocolate mixture onto a lined baking sheet is a critical step. Use an offset spatula or a butter knife to spread out the chocolate in an even layer, aiming for about 1/4-inch thickness. Uneven spreading can yield inconsistent bark pieces; thicker areas may take longer to set while thinner areas can break easily. If you prefer a thicker bite, you can pour it a bit thicker, but remember to adjust the cooling time accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious Chocolate Pistachio Bark:

Ingredients

8 ounces dark chocolate (at least 70% cacao)
1 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

You'll find this delicious recipe comes together in no time!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Pistachio Bark:

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each session until smooth and fully melted.

Combine with Pistachios

Once melted, stir in the chopped pistachios until evenly coated.

Pour and Spread

Pour the chocolate mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread it out into an even layer.

Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle sea salt on top if desired and allow the bark to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature or in the fridge until it sets.

Break into Pieces

Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy your homemade treat!

Serve the bark as is or package it up as a gift!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute pistachios with any nuts you prefer, such as almonds or walnuts, for a different flavor profile.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chocolate Pistachio Bark fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you live in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating it to prevent melting. When stored in the refrigerator, make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Should you wish to make this treat in advance, you can also freeze the bark. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This ensures that it retains its crunchy texture.

Variations and Customizations

This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Feel free to mix in different nuts such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for varied textures and flavors. You can also add dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a splash of color and a chewy element. For a hint of warmth, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few drops of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate before mixing in the pistachios.

For a more decadent treat, drizzle your cooled bark with white chocolate or a flavored syrup, which not only adds flavor but also creates an attractive visual presentation. You can also make themed variations by using colored melting chocolates for holidays or special occasions, allowing you to customize both appearance and flavor profiles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can, but the bark will be sweeter.

→ How should I store the chocolate bark?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I add dried fruits to the bark?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries or apricots would be a delicious addition.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the chocolate is gluten-free, this bark is safe for gluten-sensitive diets.