This elegant snack features a thin sheet of rich, unsweetened dark chocolate interspersed with crunchy whole almonds and finished with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt. It’s quick to prepare, naturally gluten-free, and offers a satisfyingly crisp bite with minimal ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It uses just a handful of real ingredients, meaning you know exactly what you’re eating.
The combination of dark chocolate and almonds provides both indulgence and a bit of wholesome nutrition since almonds are rich in vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats.
Because it sets without baking—just melted chocolate and chilling—it’s fast and fuss-free, perfect for an after-work treat or for making ahead.
The thin bark format is elegant and easy to share or gift, yet simple enough for everyday snacking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

200 g (about 7 oz) unsweetened dark chocolate
1½ tablespoons agave syrup (or honey or maple syrup)
¼ cup (about 40 g) chopped whole almonds
A pinch of sea salt for sprinkling on top

Directions

Roughly chop the dark chocolate and melt it gently using a bain-marie (double boiler) over low heat, or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent burning.
Stir in the agave syrup, honey, or maple syrup until fully combined.
Fold in the chopped almonds so they are evenly coated in the melted chocolate.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the chocolate-almond mixture onto it, spreading it out into a thin, even layer.
Sprinkle the sea salt over the surface.
Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bark is completely set.
Once firm, break the bark into pieces and enjoy.

Servings And Timing

Servings: About 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Use 70 % dark chocolate instead of unsweetened chocolate if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste.
Swap almonds for pistachios, cashews, or pumpkin seeds for a unique twist.
Add dried cranberries, raisins, or shredded coconut before chilling for extra flavor and color.
Sprinkle a touch of sea salt caramel or drizzle white chocolate on top for a more decadent version.
Create a marbled effect by layering dark and white chocolate together.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bark in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to two weeks. If your home is warm, keep it in the refrigerator.
If the bark softens, refrigerate it briefly before serving to bring back its crisp texture.
This recipe doesn’t require reheating, but if the bark melts or becomes uneven, you can re-melt and reset it, though the texture may change slightly.

FAQs

What Type Of Chocolate Should I Use?

Use dark chocolate with at least 70 % cocoa for a rich, deep flavor. For a sweeter bark, choose semisweet or bittersweet chocolate.

Can I Use Roasted Or Salted Almonds?

Yes, roasted or salted almonds work well, but reduce the added sea salt to balance the flavors.

Is This Recipe Gluten-Free Or Dairy-Free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, as long as the chocolate used doesn’t contain milk solids.

How Thin Should I Spread The Bark?

Spread it about ⅛ to ¼ inch thick for the perfect balance between crunch and snap.

Why Add Syrup To The Chocolate?

The syrup adds a light sweetness and helps create a smooth, glossy texture in the melted chocolate.

Can I Add Extra Toppings?

Absolutely—try adding nuts, seeds, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cocoa nibs for extra crunch.

How Long Will It Keep?

Stored properly, it will last up to two weeks. Keep it chilled in warmer weather for the best texture.

What’s The Best Way To Break The Bark?

Once set, lift the bark off the parchment and break it gently by hand into uneven, rustic pieces.

Can I Make This Ahead For Gifting?

Yes, it’s great for gifts! Store the bark in parchment-lined boxes or bags in a cool spot until gifting.

Will The Almonds Soften Over Time?

If exposed to moisture, the almonds may lose some crunch. Keep the bark tightly sealed in a dry environment to preserve texture.

Conclusion

This thin dark chocolate almond snacking bark is a quick, simple treat that combines rich chocolate, nutty crunch, and a touch of salt in every bite. Perfect for gifting, entertaining, or an everyday indulgence, it’s a recipe that delivers big flavor with minimal effort.