Rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter come together in this delightful Peanut Butter Swirl Bark, a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With its marbled design and irresistible flavor, this no-bake dessert is perfect for gifting or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The base for this decadent bark.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter: For swirling and rich flavor.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the chocolate flavor.
- Optional: A sprinkle of sea salt or crushed peanuts for garnish.
Supplies Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the bark is easy to remove.
- Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth and glossy. - Add Vanilla:
Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the chocolate flavor. - Spread the Chocolate Base:
Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly with a spatula to create a thin layer. - Prepare the Peanut Butter:
In a small microwave-safe bowl, heat the peanut butter for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly. This makes it easier to swirl. - Create the Swirl:
Drop spoonfuls of the softened peanut butter over the chocolate layer. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate, creating a marbled effect. - Garnish (Optional):
Sprinkle sea salt or crushed peanuts over the bark for extra flavor and texture. - Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the bark for at least 1 hour, or until fully firm. - Break and Serve:
Once set, remove the bark from the baking sheet and break it into irregular pieces. Serve or package for gifting!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Use high-quality chocolate for the smoothest and richest bark.
- Tip 2: For a sweeter twist, use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
- Tip 3: Add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an extra layer of elegance.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Bark: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Bark: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Nutty Swirl Bark: Add chopped almonds or cashews to the chocolate layer before swirling in the peanut butter.
FAQ
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter may separate and be harder to swirl; stick to regular creamy peanut butter for the best results.
Q: Can I skip the vanilla extract?
Yes, the bark will still be delicious without it.
Q: How can I get more defined swirls?
Work quickly while both the chocolate and peanut butter are warm for smoother, more distinct swirls.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Swirl Bark is a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both simple to make and visually stunning. Perfect for peanut butter lovers, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Try it today and enjoy the creamy, delicious magic of this marbled bark!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this site are affiliate links. Portions of this content are generated by AI.