Turtle Bark Recipe
Turtle Bark is a decadent and easy-to-make chocolate treat featuring a rich almond bark base swirled with buttery caramel and topped with crunchy pecans. This no-bake dessert is perfect for gifting or serving at parties, with its beautiful contrast of smooth chocolate, gooey caramel, and nutty texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 30 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chocolate Bark
- 1 package chocolate almond bark, 20-24 oz
Caramel Swirl
- 25 caramel squares (about 1¼ cup caramel bits)
- 1–2 tablespoons water or heavy cream
Toppings
- Whole pecans, as many as desired (some chopped preferred)
Instructions
- Prepare baking surface: Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper, or wax paper to prevent sticking when the bark hardens.
- Melt the chocolate almond bark: Roughly chop the almond bark into smaller pieces to expedite melting. Place the pieces in a microwave-safe glass bowl. Microwave at 50% power for 3 minutes, then stir. Continue microwaving in 1-2 minute increments at 50% power, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Melt the caramel: Place the caramel squares in a microwave-safe bowl with 1-2 tablespoons of water or heavy cream. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, stir, then continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is smooth and melted.
- Reserve some chocolate for drizzling: Set aside about ¼ cup of the melted chocolate for drizzling over the finished bark.
- Assemble the bark: Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking mat and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Use a spoon or small cookie scoop to drop dollops of melted caramel over the chocolate layer. Swirl the caramel and chocolate gently together with a butter knife or spatula for a marbled effect.
- Add pecans and drizzle chocolate: Sprinkle chopped and whole pecans evenly over the surface. Drizzle the reserved melted chocolate on top to finish.
- Harden and cut: Allow the bark to set at room temperature on the counter for 2-3 hours until firm and fully hardened. Once set, use a sharp knife to cut it into pieces for serving or gifting. Store the bark in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- Microwave power levels vary; adjust melting times accordingly to prevent burning chocolate or caramel.
- Using heavy cream in the caramel melt adds richness; water can be used for a lighter option.
- For even melting of almond bark, stirring frequently between microwave intervals is crucial.
- Mixing whole and chopped pecans provides appealing texture and visual interest.
- Store turtle bark in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or sticking.
- If preferred, substitute almond bark with high-quality melting chocolate, but adjustments to melting time and temperature may be needed.
Keywords: turtle bark, chocolate almond bark, caramel, pecans, no bake dessert, easy holiday treat, swirl chocolate caramel
Find it online: https://mixitwitjoe.com/turtle-bark-recipe/
