Chocolate--Yummy!

Since Sara has red hair, like her daddy, everyone talks about how much she looks like him. In this picture, however, she's taking after her mommy by enjoying some chocolate! :)

Speaking of chocolate, here's an easy recipe:

Chocolate Bark Candy

The trickiest part of this is working quickly while the chocolate is still warm. Please don’t panic though; it really is easier than all this writing makes it look. And, it is well worth the effort!

Ingredients:
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
2 oz Baker’s White Chocolate (two 1 oz. squares)
¼ cup shelled pistachio nuts*
¼ cup dried cranberries*

Line a large baking sheet (one with a raised edge works best) with wax or parchment paper.

Before starting, here’s a note about melting chocolate. During microwaving, chocolate will begin to soften while keeping its shape. To avoid scorching, stir well after heating. The heat will build up and stirring will continue to melt the chocolate; watch for it to get creamy. Use caution and watch closely because scorched chocolate does not taste (or smell) good.

Place the chocolate chips in a microwave safe cup. Heat on high for 1½ minutes, and then stir. Heat on high for 30 seconds, and stir vigorously. Repeat heating and stirring, until chocolate is completely melted.

Stir in nuts and cranberries. Pour chocolate mixture onto the pan and spread it out to a 1/8 to ¼ inch thickness.

Next, heat the white chocolate squares on high for 45 seconds. Heat an additional 15 seconds, and then repeat until chocolate gives when touched. Once the chocolate gets soft, stir and then reheat additional 15 seconds. Repeat until chocolate is fluid. Again, use caution to avoid overheating.

Drizzle the melted white chocolate back and forth across the dark chocolate. Then drag a case (butter) knife horizontally across the chocolate to make decorative swirls.

Place pan in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow chocolate to become firm. Next, using clean hands, break the chocolate into small pieces. Store in a covered container in fridge for up to two weeks.

*This candy is SO easy to personalize. You can leave out the nuts, the cranberries, or both! If you prefer raisins, add those. You can add blanched almonds, pecans, or even Rice Crispies or Cheerios. Anyway you fix it, this is a yummy candy. And, it is so pretty that it makes a great Christmas or Valentine’s Day gift. Just put some in a decorative tin or in a clear bag tied up with a pretty bow, and you’re ready to make someone smile!