Chocolate Pistachio Bark

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Bark
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 20 pieces
Ingredients: 12 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped; 1/4 cup sea salt (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Bark! It combines rich, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate with the crunchy texture of pistachios, creating a decadent treat that is both simple and impressive. Whenever I need a quick gift or a delightful dessert, this recipe always saves the day. The vibrant green pistachios against the dark chocolate not only look beautiful, but they also add a distinct flavor that elevates each bite. Whether for a party or a cozy night in, this bark is my go-to indulgence.

Created by

Heidi Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-10T12:22:10.293Z

When I first experimented with chocolate bark, I was amazed at how versatile it could be. This Chocolate Pistachio Bark recipe came to life during a holiday gathering when I needed a quick yet sophisticated snack. The combination of smooth chocolate and crunchy pistachios turned out to be a crowd-pleaser, and I've been making it ever since.

One tip I've learned is to use high-quality chocolate for melting, as it makes a huge difference in flavor and texture. I also love sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top before it sets, which adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Trust me, this is a treat you won't want to miss!

        You'll Love This Recipe Because
        Rich chocolate flavor enhanced by crunchy pistachios
Quick to make yet impressively beautiful
Customizable with different nuts or toppings

      

The Role of Chocolate and Pistachios

The choice of chocolate is crucial in this recipe. Dark chocolate, ideally with a cocoa percentage of 60-70%, provides a rich flavor that balances the saltiness of the pistachios. If you prefer a sweeter version, you could opt for semi-sweet chocolate, but be cautious; the sweetness can overpower the nutty flavor. Always ensure your chocolate is of good quality, as this will directly impact the taste of your bark.

Pistachios not only contribute a delightful crunch but also a unique flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully. Their vibrant green color adds visual appeal as well. When chopping the pistachios, be sure to leave some pieces larger for textural contrast. You can also toast the nuts lightly in a dry skillet for 5-7 minutes to enhance their flavor and aroma; just watch closely to avoid burning.

Perfecting Your Bark

When melting the chocolate, patience is key. Microwaving in 30-second intervals and stirring in between helps prevent scorching. If you notice any lumps remaining after stirring, you can gently heat for an additional few seconds, but remove as soon as it's mostly melted to avoid overheating, which can cause the chocolate to seize. The final consistency should be glossy and smooth, perfect for pouring.

Spreading the mixture evenly on the baking sheet is essential for uniform breaking later. Use an offset spatula for a smooth finish. Aim for a thickness of about 1/4 inch; if it's too thick, it may take longer to set in the fridge. For those wanting to infuse additional flavors, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate before mixing in the pistachios.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Pistachio Bark

12 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped
1/4 cup sea salt (optional, for topping)

Ensure your ingredients are measured and prepared before starting.

Instructions

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped dark chocolate. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until completely melted and smooth.

Mix in the Pistachios

Once the chocolate is melted, stir in the chopped pistachios until evenly distributed. This ensures that each bite has a delicious crunch.

Spread the Mixture

Pour the chocolate-pistachio mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly to your desired thickness.

Add Toppings

If desired, sprinkle sea salt over the top to enhance the flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for a sweet-salty contrast.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate the baking sheet for about 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely set. Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!

Store any leftover bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro Tips

To customize your bark, try adding dried fruits like cranberries or almonds for varied flavors. You can also use white or milk chocolate if you prefer those types.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chocolate Pistachio Bark can be stored in an airtight container for up to two weeks at room temperature. If you live in a warm climate, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain its firmness. Just be mindful that refrigeration can sometimes dull the chocolate's sheen. If you're planning to make it ahead of time, consider wrapping the bark in parchment paper before placing it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing other odors.

For those thinking about making larger batches for gifts or events, this recipe can easily be doubled or even tripled. Just ensure you have a larger baking sheet to accommodate the increased volume, and keep an eye on the melting and cooling times as they may vary slightly with larger amounts.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Pistachio Bark makes for an impressive presentation, and it can be served in various ways. For a more elegant touch, you can break the bark into irregular pieces and arrange them on a decorative plate, or wrap in cellophane tied with a ribbon for gifting. Additionally, serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream can create a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

If you want to get creative, consider drizzling a little white chocolate over the top for added sweetness and a beautiful visual appeal. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also adds another layer of flavor that pairs nicely with the dark chocolate and pistachios. You could even customize each batch with different toppings, such as dried cranberries or orange zest, for a seasonal twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ How long does the chocolate pistachio bark last?

When stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use other types of nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite nuts like almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts.

→ Is it possible to use chocolate chips instead of chocolate bars?

Yes, chocolate chips can be used but may not melt as smoothly as chopped chocolate bars.

→ Can I make this vegan?

Yes! Just use dark chocolate labeled as dairy-free for a vegan version.