Name: Ghostly White Chocolate Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups white chocolate chips (high-quality); 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, cashews, or choice of nuts); 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (shelled); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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If you’re searching for a simple yet stunning treat that feels both festive and elegant, Ghostly White Chocolate Bark is your answer. This delightful bark combines creamy white chocolate with a medley of crunchy nuts, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pumpkin seeds, all finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for gifting, sharing, or indulging yourself, this bark is as easy to make as it is irresistible to eat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will become a go-to for every season.

Top Reasons to Make Ghostly White Chocolate Bark

Quick and Easy: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, this bark is perfect for last-minute treats or holiday gatherings.
Customizable: Swap nuts and dried fruits to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
Visually Stunning: The contrast of white chocolate against vibrant cranberries and green pumpkin seeds creates a ghostly, eye-catching masterpiece.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up in cellophane or a pretty box for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress.
Versatile Snack: Great for snacking, dessert, or even as a topping for ice cream and yogurt bowls.

What to Buy

2 cups white chocolate chips: Choose a high-quality white chocolate for the creamiest melt and best flavor.
1 cup chopped nuts: Almonds, cashews, or your choice of nuts, roughly chopped for texture.
1/2 cup dried cranberries: Tart and sweet, these add a pop of color and flavor.
1/4 cup pumpkin seeds: Shelled pumpkin seeds add crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.
1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the white chocolate.

Tools of the Trade

Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: For melting the white chocolate evenly without burning.
Baking sheet: To spread out the bark.
Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Spatula: For stirring and spreading the chocolate.
Knife or kitchen scissors: To chop nuts and break the bark into pieces.

Cook Ghostly White Chocolate Bark Like This

Step 1: Prep Your Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will be your canvas for the Ghostly White Chocolate Bark and will ensure easy removal once the bark sets.

Step 2: Chop Your Nuts

Coarsely chop your choice of nuts—almonds and cashews work beautifully here. Roughly chopped nuts provide the perfect crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the white chocolate.

Step 3: Melt the White Chocolate

Place the white chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler on low heat, stirring continuously to avoid scorching.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Sea Salt

Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. These simple additions elevate the flavor profile, making the bark more complex and delicious.

Step 5: Mix and Spread

Pour the melted white chocolate onto your prepared baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread it into an even layer roughly 1/4 inch thick. Immediately sprinkle the chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and pumpkin seeds evenly over the top, pressing down lightly so they stick.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm to the touch.

Step 7: Break into Pieces

Once set, break the bark into irregular pieces using your hands or a knife. Store in an airtight container or package as gifts.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

Winter: Add peppermint extract and crushed candy canes for a festive twist.
Spring: Swap cranberries for dried apricots and add pistachios for a fresh flavor.
Summer: Incorporate freeze-dried raspberries and toasted coconut flakes for a tropical vibe.
Fall: Use maple extract instead of vanilla and add pecans and dried apple pieces for autumnal warmth.

Chef’s Notes

Use high-quality white chocolate chips for the best melt and flavor—avoid compound chocolates that contain vegetable fats instead of cocoa butter.
Don’t skip the sea salt; it perfectly balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the nuts and dried fruit.
Feel free to switch up the mix-ins based on what you have on hand or your preferences. If you love the combo of cranberries and nuts, you might enjoy exploring Chocolate Covered Cranberry Oat Bars next.
For a richer flavor, try gently toasting the nuts and pumpkin seeds before adding them to the bark.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Ghostly White Chocolate Bark keeps beautifully for up to two weeks stored in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and sunlight. If you want to store it longer, place it in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the bark for up to three months; thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Your Top Questions

Can I use dark or milk chocolate instead of white chocolate?

Absolutely! While this recipe highlights the creamy sweetness of white chocolate, dark or milk chocolate can be used to create a different flavor profile. Just melt them the same way and follow the rest of the recipe for equally delicious results.

What if I don’t have pumpkin seeds?

No worries! You can substitute pumpkin seeds with sunflower seeds, chopped pistachios, or even pepitas. The goal is to add a bit of crunch and a subtle nutty flavor.

How do I prevent the white chocolate from seizing?

White chocolate is sensitive to moisture. Make sure your bowl and utensils are completely dry before melting. Heat gently in short bursts and stir often. If it does seize, you can try adding a small amount of vegetable oil or shortening to smooth it out.

Can I add other flavors or extracts?

Definitely! Vanilla is classic, but you can experiment with almond extract, orange zest, or even a touch of cinnamon for a twist. Just keep the quantities small to avoid overpowering the delicate white chocolate.

Keep Cooking

For another irresistible treat featuring nuts and chocolate, try the Chocolate Almond Toffee Bark.
If cookies are more your style, the Brown Butter Chocolate Chunk Cookies offer a gooey, rich option.
Love the tartness of cranberries? The Chocolate Covered Cranberry Oat Bars are a fantastic next bake.

Bring It to the Table

This Ghostly White Chocolate Bark is as beautiful on a dessert platter as it is wrapped in cellophane for gifting. Serve it alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon pick-me-up, or break it into pieces to scatter over ice cream sundaes or yogurt parfaits. Its balance of sweet, salty, and tart flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a homemade treat, this bark delivers every time.

With its effortless preparation and endless customization options, Ghostly White Chocolate Bark is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. So grab your favorite nuts, fruits, and that luscious white chocolate, and get ready to create a treat that’s spooky-good and absolutely delicious!

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