Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark

Name: Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 16 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher); 1 cup whole roasted cashews; 1 teaspoon sea salt (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Highlighted under: Everyday Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore making Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark because it combines the richness of dark chocolate with the crunch of roasted cashews. The process is incredibly simple, which makes it perfect for gift-giving or a sweet treat at home. I love how the chocolate melts to create a silky texture, and it sets perfectly once it cools. After experimenting with different nuts, I can confidently say that cashews offer the ideal balance of flavor and texture that elevates this treat. It's truly a delightful experience to make and enjoy!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T15:10:28.197Z

When I first made Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark, I was amazed at how straightforward the recipe was. The key is using high-quality chocolate, which ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful. I've found that melting the chocolate gently in a double boiler prevents it from seizing, which can ruin the texture. That little tip made a world of difference in the final outcome!

In my kitchen, this bark quickly became a family favorite, especially during the holidays. I love packaging it in decorative tins to share with friends and family. It’s not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying to see everyone enjoy a piece of my creation. I can't wait to experiment with additional flavors, like a sprinkle of sea salt or dried fruit, for future batches!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy cashews
Silky smooth texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for gifting or a quick indulgent snack

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of chocolate is crucial for the success of your Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark. Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao in order to achieve a deep, rich flavor profile that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the cashews. The higher the cacao percentage, the more intense the chocolate will be, which complements the nutty, creamy taste of the cashews. If you're a fan of a sweeter bark, you might choose a chocolate around 60-65% cacao.

Cashews are not only about their delightful crunch; they also add a mild sweetness and creamy texture that harmonizes with the dark chocolate. If you’re looking for a dietary swap, feel free to replace cashews with other nuts like almonds or pecans, but keep in mind that these will impart a different flavor profile. Each nut contributes uniquely to the bark’s overall character, so choose according to your preference and desired crunch.

Perfecting the Melting Technique

Melting chocolate is an art that benefits from low and slow heat. A double boiler is the best tool as it allows indirect heat, preventing the chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy. If you don't have one, a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water does the trick. Stir the chocolate constantly until it is fully melted and glossy, which should take about 5-10 minutes. Pay close attention to avoid overheating—if you see any signs of steam or if it begins to bubble, remove it from the heat immediately.

Remember that overmixing melted chocolate could lead to it losing its glossy finish. Aim for a smooth, shiny texture before incorporating your cashews. If at any point your chocolate becomes too thick, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or a small amount of cream to help restore that liquid consistency while enhancing the flavor.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Once your bark has cooled and set, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. To extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it. Just be sure to wrap the bark in wax paper to prevent moisture from altering its texture. When ready to enjoy, you can let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before breaking it into pieces for maximum enjoyment.

For a fun variation, try adding spices such as cinnamon or a hint of cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate before mixing in the cashews. This can give your bark an unexpected zing that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. You can also experiment with drizzling white chocolate over the top for visual appeal and added flavor—just melt the white chocolate separately and drizzle it over the set bark before breaking it into pieces.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start making your Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark:

Ingredients

12 oz dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher)
1 cup whole roasted cashews
1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Now that you have all of your ingredients ready, let’s move to the exciting part: making the bark!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark:

Melt the Chocolate

In a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate, stirring frequently until smooth. Make sure to keep the heat low to avoid scorching the chocolate.

Combine Ingredients

Once the chocolate is melted, remove it from heat and stir in the cashews and vanilla extract, if using. Mix until the cashews are well coated.

Spread the Mixture

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the chocolate-cashew mixture onto it. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to your desired thickness.

Chill and Set

Sprinkle with sea salt, if desired, and place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or until set. Once hardened, break into pieces.

Your homemade Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark is now ready to enjoy or share!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding other nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of white chocolate on top before it sets.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your chocolate is not melting smoothly and turns clumpy, it's often a result of moisture. Ensure all your tools, including bowls and spatulas, are completely dry before use. If your chocolate starts to seize, try adding a small amount of fat, like vegetable oil or cocoa butter, to help restore its silky texture. Just stir until fully combined, but do so cautiously.

In case your final bark seems overly soft or doesn't break apart easily, it may not have chilled long enough, or the chocolate-to-nut ratio could be off. For future batches, ensure you spread the mixture evenly and allow adequate time in the refrigerator. You could also experiment by adding more chocolate or less nut content to achieve a firmer texture.

Scaling the Recipe

This Decadent Chocolate Cashew Bark recipe is easily scalable. If you're planning for a larger gathering or event, simply double or triple the quantities while ensuring your baking sheets can accommodate the increased volume. Just remember that the cooling time may be slightly longer if the thickness of the bark increases.

For those looking to make smaller batches, halving the ingredients works just as well. Just remember that if you’re melting chocolate in smaller quantities, it may require a shorter melting time. Always keep an eye on it to prevent burning, especially when working with less volume in your double boiler.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, milk chocolate can be used, but it will result in a sweeter bark. Adjust the quantity of added sugar accordingly if desired.

→ How should I store the bark?

Store the chocolate bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I substitute cashews with other nuts?

Absolutely! Almonds, pistachios, or walnuts can be great alternatives to cashews.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Yes! Ensure you use a dairy-free dark chocolate and it will be a delicious vegan treat.