Get ready to spread holiday cheer with this delightful Reindeer Chocolate Bark! Perfectly festive and fun to make, this easy recipe brings the joy of the season to life with adorable reindeer faces crafted from pretzels, candy eyes, and M&M’s. It’s the ideal recipe to make with the whole family, and it also makes a sweet and thoughtful gift for friends, teachers, and neighbors. Simple to prepare, with ingredients you probably already have, this recipe will soon become a holiday favorite.
Ingredients Needed For Reindeer Chocolate Bark
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips: This forms the rich, creamy base of the bark.
- 12 mini pretzels: These add a festive crunch and create the “antlers.”
- 12 red M&M’s: Used to make those cute red noses.
- Candy eyes: A must for the reindeer look!
- 2 tablespoons green M&M’s: Adds a pop of festive color.
- 1 teaspoon sprinkles (optional): For an extra festive flair.
Notes: If you prefer, you can substitute dark or semi-sweet chocolate for a slightly richer taste. If you’re gifting this to friends with dietary restrictions, you can also use dairy-free chocolate and allergy-friendly candy eyes.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Reindeer Chocolate Bark
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. - Melt the Chocolate
- Microwave Method: Place the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth.
- Double Boiler Method: Place the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Stir constantly until melted.
- Create the Chocolate Base
Pour the melted chocolate onto the lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula, about 1/4 inch thick. - Decorate with Reindeer Faces
- Arrange the mini pretzels on the chocolate for reindeer antlers.
- Add a red M&M below each set of pretzels for the nose.
- Place candy eyes above each nose to complete the reindeer faces.
- Add Green M&M’s and Sprinkles
While the chocolate is still soft, scatter the green M&M’s and sprinkles over the bark for an added holiday touch. - Set the Chocolate
Allow the bark to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 20-30 minutes to speed up the process. - Break and Serve
Once the chocolate has completely set, break it into pieces with your hands. Enjoy your festive reindeer bark or package it as a holiday treat!
Why Reindeer Chocolate Bark is the Perfect Recipe for the Holidays
This recipe is a holiday crowd-pleaser that’s as adorable as it is tasty. It’s a great addition to holiday parties, family gatherings, or just as a treat to enjoy with loved ones. You can also double or triple the recipe for larger groups or package the pieces in small bags for gifting. It’s a quick yet thoughtful option, perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Serving Suggestions
Reindeer Chocolate Bark is delicious on its own but also pairs well with holiday desserts like sugar cookies, brownies, or gingerbread. Set it out as a snack for a holiday movie night or use it as a fun addition to a dessert charcuterie board.
Closing Tips & Storage Instructions
To keep your Reindeer Chocolate Bark fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. When gifting, consider wrapping the bark in festive holiday bags or boxes for an extra-special touch. Have fun with variations like adding crushed candy canes or mini marshmallows to make it even more festive!
Enjoy making this adorable holiday treat, and don’t forget to leave feedback if you try it—happy holidays!
Reindeer Chocolate Bark Recipe: A Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
- 12 mini pretzels
- 12 red M&M’s for the noses
- Candy eyes
- 2 tablespoons green M&M’s for decoration
- 1 teaspoon sprinkles optional, for extra festive flair
Instructions
- Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the chocolate from sticking.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Melt the milk chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
- Create the Chocolate Base:
- Pour the melted milk chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Decorate with Reindeer Faces:
- Place the 12 mini pretzels onto the chocolate for the reindeer antlers.
- Add 12 red M&M’s below the pretzels for the reindeer noses.
- Place candy eyes above the noses to complete the reindeer faces.
- Add Green M&M’s and Sprinkles:
- Scatter the green M&M’s and 1 teaspoon of sprinkles over the bark while the chocolate is still wet for added festive color and texture.
- Set the Chocolate:
- Let the bark sit at room temperature until fully set, or place it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes to speed up the process.
- Break and Serve:
- Once the chocolate is completely set, break it into pieces with your hands. Enjoy your festive reindeer bark or package it up as a holiday treat for friends and family!
Notes
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