Smoky Chipotle Candied Bacon Chocolate Bark

The Ultimate Swicy Sensation

Welcome to the intersection of breakfast and dessert, where salty meets sweet and a smoky heat lingers on your palate. This Chipotle Candied Bacon Chocolate Bark isn’t just a novelty; it’s a gourmet experience that redefines indulgence. The deep, smoky warmth of chipotle cuts through the richness of the chocolate and sugar, while the savory bacon provides an unforgettable crunch. It’s the perfect treat for adventurous foodies and a show-stopping addition to any dessert platter.

Cuisine: American | Diet: None | Skill Level: Beginner | Cost: Moderate

Ingredients

• 8 slices of thick-cut bacon
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 10 oz high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao), chopped
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (like Maldon)

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This is crucial for easy cleanup, as the sugar will caramelize and become very sticky.
2. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chipotle powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sugar. You should smell a smoky, sweet aroma.
3. Arrange the bacon slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap. This allows each slice to cook evenly and become perfectly crisp.
4. Evenly sprinkle the sugar and spice mixture over each slice of bacon, pressing it down gently with your fingers to help it adhere. The bacon should be generously coated.
5. While the bacon is cooking, prepare your chocolate. Line a separate, smaller baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be the mold for your bark.

Cooking

1. Bake the bacon for 18-25 minutes. The timing can vary based on bacon thickness and your oven. Check at 15 minutes. The bacon is done when it’s a deep, mahogany color and the sugar is bubbly and caramelized. The edges should be dark and crisp. Be watchful in the last few minutes as the sugar can burn quickly.
2. Carefully remove the bacon from the oven and transfer the slices to a wire rack to cool. The bacon will crisp up significantly as it cools. Once cool enough to handle, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. While the bacon cools, melt the dark chocolate. You can do this in a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or in a heatproof bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water (a double boiler). Stir until the chocolate is smooth and glossy. Avoid getting any water in the chocolate, as it will cause it to seize.
4. Pour the melted chocolate onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it into an even layer, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Sprinkle the chopped candied bacon pieces evenly over the melted chocolate. Gently press them into the chocolate to ensure they stick. Finish by sprinkling the flaky sea salt over the top.
6. Let the bark set at room temperature for about 2-3 hours, or in the refrigerator for 30 minutes until firm. Once solid, break it into irregular pieces.

Serving

Serve the bark at room temperature. Arrange the pieces artfully on a wooden board or a slate platter for a rustic-chic presentation. It’s a perfect post-dinner treat or a unique gift.

Storage

Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. If refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

A Masterpiece of Contrasts

You’ve now created a dessert that defies categorization and delights the senses. The balance of smoky, spicy, sweet, and salty is what makes this bark so memorable. Share it with friends, or keep it all for yourself—we won’t judge!

Tags: bacon dessert, chocolate bark, spicy chocolate, candied bacon, chipotle recipe

Hungry for more?

For more delicious northern recipes, check out our Melgund: Come Eat With Me Cookbook! Serving the communities of Dyment and Borups Corners in Melgund Township, Northwestern Ontario. This digital literacy and food security program is supported by Art Borups Corners and Melgund Recreation, Arts and Culture.

About the Author

Melgund Come Eat With Us

Author

Rooted in the hearts of Dyment and Borups Corners, this recreational, participatory food security project brings people together through the joy of cooking. Explore more creative recipes in the Melgund: Come Eat With Me Cookbook—a food security initiative proudly supported by Art Borups Corners and Melgund Recreation, Arts and Culture.

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