Dark Chocolate Pecan Bark

About Dark Chocolate Pecan Bark

Dark chocolate has been a beloved treat for centuries, originally consumed as a bitter beverage by ancient civilizations like the Maya. The transformation into solid chocolate bars occurred during the 19th century. This evolution allowed the versatility we see today, including the delightful dark chocolate pecan bark. This treat combines the intense flavor of dark chocolate with the buttery crunch of pecans, resulting in a luxurious yet simple dessert.

Ingredients

• Dark chocolate - 500 grams
• Pecans - 200 grams
• Sea salt - 1 teaspoon
• Butter (for greasing) - 1 tablespoon

Preparation

1. Begin by preparing your workspace. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter to prevent the dark chocolate from sticking.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Spread the pecans on the prepared baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they're golden and aromatic, enhancing their natural oils and flavor.
4. Remove the pecans from the oven and set them aside to cool.

Melting the Dark Chocolate

1. Break the dark chocolate into small pieces to ensure smooth melting. Use a double boiler method to carefully melt the dark chocolate. Fill a saucepan with a few inches of water and bring it to a simmer.
2. Place the dark chocolate pieces in a heatproof bowl and set it over the simmering water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
3. Stir the dark chocolate gently until completely melted and glossy. Make sure no moisture gets into the dark chocolate, as this can cause it to seize.

Assembling the Bark

1. Pour the melted dark chocolate onto a fresh sheet of parchment paper, using a spatula to spread it evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
2. Evenly distribute the cooled pecans across the surface of the melted dark chocolate, gently pressing them down to ensure they adhere.
3. Sprinkle a teaspoon of sea salt over the top for a perfect balance of flavors.

The Cooling and Breaking Process

1. Allow the dark chocolate to cool at room temperature until it has fully hardened. This can take about 1 to 2 hours, but using a refrigerator can speed up the time needed.
2. Once solid, break the dark chocolate pecan bark into pieces. Do this by hand, as it creates interesting, rustic shapes that enhance the presentation.

Enjoying Your Dark Chocolate Pecan Bark

This dark chocolate pecan bark can be enjoyed on its own as a delightful treat at any time of the day. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or an aged port wine for a more indulgent experience. Not just a standalone dessert, it can also be wrapped in parchment and given as a thoughtful homemade gift.