History & Fun Fact
Candy bark has been around for decades, often made during the holidays with chocolate and toppings like peppermint, nuts, or dried fruit. This version is a playful twist using jelly candies (like gummy bears or fruit jellies), making it colorful and kid-friendly. It’s a quick no-bake treat that only needs a few ingredients and a little chill time.
Ingredients
- 500 g (about 18 oz) white chocolate (good quality, chopped or use chips)
- 1 ½ cups jelly candies (gumdrops, gummy bears, fruit jellies, or Turkish delight, chopped into small pieces)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional, makes chocolate smoother when melting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
- Prepare the pan
- Line a baking tray (8×10 inch or similar) with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes removal easy.
- Melt the chocolate
- Place the white chocolate and coconut oil in a heatproof bowl.
- Melt using a double boiler (bowl over simmering water) OR in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth.
- Mix in flavor (optional)
- Stir in vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
- Add the jelly candies
- Fold the chopped jelly candies into the melted chocolate. Make sure they are evenly distributed.
- Spread it out
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared tray and spread into an even layer (about ½ inch thick).
- Chill
- Place in the refrigerator for about 1–2 hours until firm.
- Cut into pieces
- Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into small squares or rectangles, as shown in your photo.
Variations
- Chocolate Swirl: Mix white and milk chocolate for a marbled effect.
- Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped almonds, cashews, or pistachios for extra texture.
- Holiday Version: Use red and green jellies for Christmas, or pastel colors for Easter.
- Tropical Twist: Add dried pineapple, mango, or coconut flakes with the jelly pieces.
Benefits
- Fun treat for kids – colorful and chewy, perfect for parties.
- Quick & easy – no baking required, ready in under 2 hours.
- Customizable – use your favorite candies, chocolates, or nuts.
- Gift-worthy – pack in little bags or boxes for holidays and birthdays.
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months (just thaw in the fridge before serving).
