Indulge in Decadence with Chocolate Espresso Bean Bark
Are you a fan of coffee and chocolate? If so, I have a treat for you. Introducing my chocolate covered espresso bean bark recipe that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and give you the caffeine kick you need.
This dessert recipe is perfect for any coffee lover or chocolate enthusiast out there. It combines the rich, bold taste of espresso beans with the smooth sweetness of milk, dark, and white chocolate chips. Each layer of chocolate sandwiched between the crunchy espresso beans gives you a piece packed with delicious flavor and a caffeine boost to get through your day.
I used packages of chocolate-covered coffee beans for this recipe, but you can use regular espresso beans coated in almond chocolate as well. How many chocolate-covered espresso beans equals one cup of coffee? An average package of 3 ounces of the beans covered in chocolate gives you about 3-4 cups of coffee.
This recipe makes enough for a gathering with friends or family or simply to indulge yourself in a delicious dessert anytime. Get ready to make the most delicious chocolate-covered espresso bean bark that is perfect for all occasions. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this delectable chocolaty treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a coffee lover who also has a sweet tooth? Then, my friend, this recipe is perfect for you. I present to you the mouth-watering and irresistible Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark Recipe.
I can assure you that once you try this recipe, there’s no going back. The combination of chocolate and coffee has always been a favorite among many. The bitter-sweetness of dark chocolate and the strong aroma of espresso beans blend perfectly together to give you an unforgettable flavor.
As a coffee enthusiast myself, I can testify that nothing beats the energy boost we get from caffeine. And with this recipe, not only will you satisfy your sweet cravings, but also give yourself a little caffeine kick. The chocolate-covered espresso beans give each piece an added caffeine dose, which is just what we need to start our mornings.
If you’re someone who loves trying out new dessert recipes or coffee drinks, this one surely deserves a spot on your list. With its easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, anyone can make it at home without any hassle.
Trust me when I say that this recipe will leave everyone asking for more. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or even as a gift for your fellow coffee-lover friend. So go ahead and add this recipe to your collection – I guarantee it is going to be one of your favorites!
Ingredient List
Before starting with the recipe, let’s take a look at what we’ll need. This recipe requires dark chocolate, white chocolate chips, and of course, chocolate-covered espresso beans. You can either buy these beans ready-made or make them yourself by covering coffee beans with melted white or dark chocolate. The beans give each piece of the bark a caffeine kick that will enliven your taste buds. You’ll also need almond bark and some chocolate melting wafers to make sure each layer of your bark stays together.
For our ingredient coffee, we suggest using your favorite kind of espresso bean – this recipe works great with any brand. You’ll want to start by brewing a cup of it to give your dessert an even more robust flavor. In total, you will need 2 cups of coffee beans divided by ½ cup of espresso beans for this recipe.
To make this mouth-watering bark, you’ll additionally need parchment paper, a baking sheet, and a bowl that’s safe for microwaving. We suggest using semi-sweet chocolate if you like your sweet a little less sweet, but feel free to use milk or dark chocolate as per your preference.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the introduction, why you’ll love this recipe, and the required ingredient list, let’s get started with making our delicious Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark.
Preparation
To begin, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will keep the chocolate from sticking to the pan.
Making the Chocolate Layers
We will be making three layers for our bark: dark chocolate espresso bean layer, white chocolate sandwich layer with crushed espresso beans, and a milk chocolate layer with almond bark.
Layer One: Dark Chocolate Espresso Bean Layer
– In a microwaveable bowl, melt 5 ounces of dark chocolate. Make sure to stir the chocolate every 30 seconds until it is completely melted.
– Once melted, pour it onto the parchment paper and spread it evenly.
– Add 1 cup of chocolate covered espresso beans on top of the melted chocolate. Sprinkle it evenly across the melted chocolate to make sure each piece has an equal distribution.
– Let it sit for 10 minutes.
Layer Two: White Chocolate Sandwich Layer with Crushed Espresso Beans
– In another microwaveable bowl, melt 3 ounces of white chocolate chips in intervals of 30 seconds until completely melted.
– Pour half of the melted white chocolate onto a separate plate or bowl.
– Crush about 1/2 cup of espresso beans and add them into the other half of the melted white chocolate. Mix well.
– Spread this mixture on top of your base layer in an even layer. You should be making a sandwich layer between layers one and three.
Layer Three: Milk Chocolate Almond Bark Layer
– In a separate microwaveable bowl, melt together 5 ounces of milk chocolate and 3 ounces of dark (semi-sweet) chocolate in intervals of 30 seconds until they are completely melted.
Tip: If you prefer darker chocolate bark instead of milk-chocolate bark, then melt a total of 8 ounces of dark (semi-sweet) chocolate chips instead.
– Pour this over the white chocolate layer and spread it evenly.
– Add about 1/2 cup of chopped almond bark on top of the melted chocolate, spreading it evenly so that each piece has an equal amount of almonds.
– Let it set and cool for 30 minutes.
Cutting and Servings
Once your bark has completely cooled down, peel the parchment off and break the Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark into small pieces using a knife or by hand.
Enjoying Your Dessert
This recipe makes for a great homemade gift or a yummy dessert to indulge in during coffee breaks. The combination of crunchy espresso beans mixed with three different types of chocolate is sure to give you a caffeine kick when necessary. Happy baking!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you looking to mix things up with your chocolate covered espresso bean bark recipe? There are plenty of substitutions and variations you can make to add your own personal touch to this delicious recipe!
First, let’s talk chocolate. While the recipe calls for dark chocolate, you can easily swap it out for milk or white chocolate if that’s what you prefer. And if you want a combination of all three, then go for it! Just remember to adjust the amount of sweetener you use based on the type of chocolate being used.
If you’re not a big fan of almonds in your bark, you can substitute them with other nuts such as peanuts or cashews, or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins. This substitution will give your bark a different texture and taste, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
For an extra caffeine kick, try adding some espresso powder to the melted chocolate before pouring it onto the baking sheet. This can enhance the coffee flavor and give each bite an extra punch.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous and want a different take on the classic bark recipe, try making “chocolate sandwich layers”. Simply layer chocolate wafers with chocolate covered espresso beans between them in place of traditional bark layers. The end result will be a unique twist on the original recipe that is sure to impress!
Remember, when making substitutions and variations to any recipe always keep in mind the original cooking times and temperatures. You may also need to adjust some measurements or cookware based on what you choose to use.
So have fun experimenting with different ingredients and try out these substitutions and variations to make this Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark Recipe truly your own!
Serving and Pairing
One of the best things about this chocolate-covered espresso bean bark recipe is its versatility. You can serve it as a sweet treat for dessert, snack time or enjoy it with your cup of coffee. The mix of coffee flavor and dark chocolate creates decadent layers of flavor that will please any sweet tooth.
For a little indulgence, pair the bark with a hot cup of coffee. The espresso in the recipe provides that caffeine kick that we all need to start off our day with a boost. You could use a standard drip coffee maker, an espresso machine or even brew yourself a rich and flavorful French press.
If you want something more adventurous, you can try pairing the bark with your favorite drink – like an iced latte or a cappuccino. The combination of the flavors will make for a delicious and refreshing drink.
If you’re serving this as a dessert after dinner, then you can cut it into small bite-sized pieces before plating it on dessert plates. Drizzle some white chocolate over it to elevate the presentation and add even more sweetness to the dish. Then finish by adding some almond bark crumbles on top to complement those crunching espresso beans.
Alternatively, you can serve it alongside other desserts and snack items, which helps keep the focus on the rich coffee and dark chocolate flavors in this bark. It pairs well with a variety of other sweets including milk chocolate truffles, fruit tarts or even biscotti.
The possibilities are endless! So whether you prefer traditional desserts or something more modern, this chocolate-covered espresso bean bark recipe is sure to satisfy any dessert craving or afternoon snack break.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time and storing, making it a great option for parties or as a gift. Once the chocolate covered espresso bean bark is set and fully cooled, break it into pieces and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
If you want to make this recipe ahead of time but don’t have the time to break the bark into pieces, no worries! You can pour the melted chocolate over the espresso beans on a parchment-lined baking sheet and break it into smaller pieces once it has cooled.
When reheating the chocolate covered espresso bean bark, be careful not to melt the chocolate too much. Place the desired amount of bark on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 10 seconds at a time until it reaches your desired temperature. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a 225°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
While this recipe can be stored in the refrigerator, we do not recommend it as it can cause condensation on the chocolate which may affect the taste and texture of your dessert.
In conclusion, prepare this tasty dessert in advance and enjoy it throughout the week without worrying about compromising its flavor or texture. Reheat with care so that you can enjoy each piece of bark with its optimal freshness and texture.
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making chocolate covered espresso bean bark, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure perfect results every time. Here are some of my best suggestions:
First and foremost, make sure you use high-quality ingredients. Choosing good quality espresso beans and chocolate chips will elevate the flavor of your bark significantly. If possible, opt for dark chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate, rather than milk chocolate, as they will provide a stronger taste that complements the coffee flavor well.
To ensure the chocolate melts evenly and smoothly, take your time when melting it. Use a double boiler if you have one, but if not, melt it in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water. Be sure to stir frequently and avoid overheating the chocolate, as this can cause it to seize and become lumpy.
When pouring the melted chocolate onto the baking sheet, use a spatula to spread it into an even layer. It should be just thick enough to hold the espresso beans in place without being too thick that it becomes difficult to break into pieces.
Speaking of espresso beans, be sure to give each piece a light tap or shake before placing them onto the chocolate layer. This will help ensure that they’re well-coated in the melted chocolate and don’t fall off when you break the bark into pieces later.
Another tip is to use parchment paper when spreading out the melted chocolate onto the baking sheet. This will make removing the bark much easier and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
If you want to add some extra crunch to your bark, try mixing in chopped almonds with the espresso beans before adding them on top of the chocolate layer. It’s also a great variation if you don’t have enough espresso beans at home.
Finally, make sure that your bark has fully set before breaking it up into pieces. This usually takes about an hour or two at room temperature but you can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make delicious, crunchy and flavorful chocolate covered espresso bean bark every time!
FAQ
Now, let’s move on to one of the most anticipated sections of this recipe article – the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). I understand that different people may have varying levels of experience and familiarity with cooking, baking or using specific ingredients. Thus, I have compiled some common queries and concerns that you might have as you attempt to make this delicious chocolate-covered espresso bean bark recipe. Don’t worry because I’ll give my expert advice and tips, so keep reading!
Can you brew chocolate covered espresso beans?
When incorporating chocolate into your coffee, it’s crucial to proceed with caution. The heat from the coffee may cause the chocolate to melt slowly, which could potentially cause the filter to become clogged. Additionally, the chocolate could overflow and create a sticky mess. If you’re using chocolate candy, be mindful of its age, as it may not brew a flavorful cup of coffee, even if it’s not coated in chocolate.
How many chocolate covered espresso beans equals one cup of coffee?
If you’re wondering about the number of chocolate-covered espresso beans you would need to consume to get the caffeine equivalent of a cup of coffee, there’s a simple approximation you can follow. Typically, a cup of coffee contains around 95-100mg of caffeine, while an individual espresso bean holds approximately 6mg of caffeine. Based on these figures, we can estimate that you would need to munch on roughly 16-17 chocolate-covered espresso beans to reach the caffeine content of a cup of coffee.
What is espresso bark?
Looking for a treat that will satisfy any coffee lover’s cravings? Try making some espresso bark! This delicious dessert features layers of chocolate, with a center layer made from crunchy chocolate wafers. But that’s not all – each piece of bark is also loaded with chocolate-covered espresso beans, giving it a real caffeine boost. Don’t worry if you don’t have multi-colored espresso beans on hand – any variety will work just fine.
Are chocolate covered espresso beans just coffee beans?
This recipe article features a delicious blend of white, milk, and dark chocolate coffee beans, also known as chocolate covered espresso beans. Originating from the United States, this recipe is perfect for coffee and chocolate lovers alike.
Bottom Line
Let me just start by saying, once you try this delightful chocolate covered espresso bean bark recipe, there’s no going back. The delicious and addicting combination of coffee and chocolate will have you craving for more. Not only is this a great dessert option but it can also be paired with coffee drinks for an added caffeine kick.
The ingredient list may look a bit intimidating, but don’t let that discourage you! With a little patience and guidance from the recipe how-to, you’ll find yourself making this recipe more often than not. And the best part? You can always switch things up with different types of chocolate and espresso beans to keep things interesting.
To ensure perfect results, follow my tips for the perfect chocolate covered espresso bean bark. From using parchment paper to prevent sticking, to alternating layers of chocolate and espresso beans for optimal crunchiness- there are tricks that will make you stand out as a pro barista in the kitchen.
This recipe is also easy to make ahead of time and store for whenever those chocolate cravings hit. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding almonds or other nuts for extra texture and flavor.
So why settle for boring dessert recipes when you can impress your friends and family with this decadent treat? Bring out the barista in you and indulge in some delicious chocolate covered espresso bean bark today!
Chocolate Covered Espresso Bean Bark Recipe
Ingredients
- 18 ounces white chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup chocolate-covered coffee beans
- melted semisweet chocolate, to drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Pre heat oven to 150 degrees.
- Lay parchment paper on baking sheet and spread out white chocolate.
- Place in oven to allow morsels to melt.
- Roughly chop expresso beans in food processor (or you may choose to leave whole).
- Remove pan from oven and spread chocolate evenly across pan.
- Sprinkle with chocolate covered expresso bean.
- Garnish by drizzling melted semi sweet chocolate over pan.
- Allow to cool in fridge or freezer.
- Break apart into bite size pieces.
- Makes about 10 snack size baggie servings.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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