Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings together rich flavors and fun textures, then look no further than this delightful Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark! This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings, cozy movie nights, or even just a treat for yourself after a long day. The sweet and salty layers of chocolate and gooey marshmallows are absolutely irresistible. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has become a favorite in my home!

Desserts like this one are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make. You can whip it up in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Plus, it’s sure to impress everyone with its unique combination of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps and minimal cooking time, you can create a show-stopping dessert.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids love the gooey marshmallows and chocolate layers, making it a hit with the whole family.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare this bark in advance and store it in the fridge for later—perfect for planning ahead!
• Delicious flavor combinations: The mix of chocolate, caramel, and salty bacon creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home! Here’s what you’ll need to create your Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark:

For the Bark

• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 2 cups mini vegan marshmallows
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon barley tea
• 25 wrapped caramels (unwrapped)
• 2 strips of crisply cooked bacon (crumbled)

Variations

One of the best things about this bark is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use different chocolate: Dark chocolate or white chocolate can give a whole new twist to the flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding sprinkles or coconut flakes on top before freezing for added texture.
• Make it spicier: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the chocolate layer for a little kick!

How to Make Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preparing an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Let those flaps hang over the edges; they will be your best friend when it’s time to remove the bark later!

Step 2: Melt the Chocolate

In a medium microwave-safe bowl, heat those semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth. This step is crucial—keeping an eye on the chocolate ensures it doesn’t scorch.

Step 3: Create the First Layer

Pour about half of your melted chocolate into the prepared pan. Use a silicone spatula to spread it evenly. Now it’s time to pop it into the freezer while we get started on those delicious marshmallows—about 15 minutes should do!

Step 4: Prepare Vegan Marshmallows

In another microwave-safe bowl, combine vegan marshmallows and butter. Heat them on high for about 45 seconds; stir well and heat again if needed until they become smooth and elastic. Don’t forget to add barley tea—it adds such depth!

Step 5: Layer the Marshmallows

Quickly pour that gooey mixture over your set chocolate layer and smooth it out as best as you can with your spatula. You want an even layer here because every bite counts!

Step 6: Freeze Again

Return everything back to the freezer for another 15 minutes so that marshmallow layer can set nicely.

Step 7: Melt Caramels

Place unwrapped caramels into a bowl (feel free to use that same bowl from before!). Heat them until melted and smooth—this may take another round of stirring after short intervals.

Step 8: Pour Over Marshmallows

Quickly pour your melted caramel over the marshmallow layer while it’s still warm. Spread evenly but move fast; you don’t want this setting before you finish!

Step 9: Add Final Chocolate Layer

Now pour your remaining melted chocolate over that caramel layer! Smooth it out nicely and sprinkle crumbled bacon on top while everything is still wet.

Step 10: Final Freeze

Time for one last freeze! Let it sit for about 15-30 minutes until completely set.

Step 11: Slice It Up!

When ready to serve, gently pull up on those parchment flaps to remove the bark from the pan. Cut into pieces using a sharp knife—these treats are ready to be devoured!

Step 12: Storage Tips

Keep any leftovers refrigerated because once at room temperature, they soften up beautifully inside while staying firm on the outside.

Enjoy making this delightful treat! I hope it brings as much joy to your kitchen as it does to mine!

Pro Tips for Making Chocolate, Caramel, Vegan Marshmallows, Barley Tea & Bacon Bark

Creating this delicious bark is a fun and rewarding experience, and a few tips can help you achieve the perfect result!

• Use high-quality chocolate: The flavor of chocolate is the star of the show here! Opting for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips will enhance the taste and richness of your bark.
• Work quickly with layers: The melted marshmallows and caramel tend to harden fast. Pouring and spreading them promptly ensures a smooth layer that adheres well to the previous one.
• Adjust sweetness to your taste: If you prefer less sweetness, consider using dark chocolate or reducing the amount of caramel. This way, you can customize the bark to suit your palate!
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to swap out barley tea for other teas or add spices like cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to elevate the flavor profile even further.
• Store properly: To keep your bark fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This prevents it from becoming too soft at room temperature.

How to Serve Chocolate, Caramel, Vegan Marshmallows, Barley Tea & Bacon Bark

This bark not only tastes divine but also looks stunning when served! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Sea salt flakes: A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweet and salty contrast, making every bite more exciting.
• Chopped nuts: Adding crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts gives an extra crunch and nutty flavor that complements the chocolate beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: A selection of seasonal fruits like strawberries, apples, or pears provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the bark.
• Vegan ice cream: Serve slices of this bark alongside a scoop of creamy vegan ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
• Herbal tea: Pairing this dessert with a warm cup of herbal tea can create a cozy atmosphere while balancing out the sweetness.
• Oatmeal cookies: The chewy texture of oatmeal cookies contrasts nicely with the crispness of the bark, making for an enjoyable mix of textures.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with your homemade Chocolate, Caramel, Vegan Marshmallows, Barley Tea & Bacon Bark! Enjoy every delightful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it easily to satisfy your sweet cravings whenever they hit.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap any leftover bark tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• For best flavor and texture, consume within a few days.

Freezing

• Cut the bark into pieces before freezing for easier access later.
• Place pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Bark can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• There’s no need to reheat this bark; simply enjoy it cold from the refrigerator or at room temperature!
• If you want it slightly softer, let it sit out for about 10 minutes before serving.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I use a different type of chocolate for the Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark?

Absolutely! You can use dark chocolate or dairy-free chocolate chips if you prefer. Just ensure they are vegan-friendly!

How do I make sure my vegan marshmallows work well in the Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark?

Make sure to heat them gently and mix well with the butter and barley tea. This will help create that gooey texture we all love!

Can I substitute bacon in the Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark?

Yes! For a vegetarian option, you could use crispy coconut bacon or smoked tempeh instead of traditional bacon.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Chocolate, Caramel, vegan marshmallows, barley tea & Bacon Bark a try! It’s not only a treat for your taste buds but also an exciting adventure in flavors. Enjoy making this delightful dessert and sharing it with friends and family. Happy cooking!