Berry Bark
One thing you may not know about me is that baking was my first true love. When I was younger, this usually meant brownies from a box or if I was feeling really ambitious I’d attempt the chocolate chip recipe on the back of the Toll House package. We all start somewhere, right?
I always found the process of making my family dessert to be oddly relaxing. Something about the precision and patience required was calming to me. And my family grew accustomed to having something sweet in the house most of the time...
This also meant I’d be cranking the oven on the hottest days of the summer. Did I mention we did not have AC? Yes, my parents were very patient with me. I’d like to think it had something to do with knowing the final product would be worth it!
As an adult, I’ve grown to appreciate the simplicity of a no-bake dessert. They are usually simple, quick, and won’t make your kitchen feel like it’s on fire! One of my favorites is this Berry Bark. It is so easy and versatile! Customize with your favorite fruit and enjoy it cold on a hot summer’s night!
Ingredients:
1 11oz. Bag of Ghirardelli White Chocolate Chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil
¾ cup fresh mixed berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries)
½ cup granola
Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Chop berries into desired sizes (e.g., thinly slice strawberries or halve the raspberries)
In a small pot, bring about 1 - 1 ½ inches of water to a boil. Place a large bowl over the top of the boiling water to create a double boiler ( as seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37UeJLo6p3Y). Pour the white chocolate chips and coconut oil into the bowl, slowly stirring as chocolate begins to melt.
Once the chocolate is completely melted, remove from heat and pour it in the center of the parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate evenly into a ¼ inch thick rectangle.
Top with mixed berries and granola. Using a spatula or your hands, gently press toppings into the chocolate.
Freeze for 1 hour before breaking the bark into smaller chunks. Keep refrigerated!