Do you enjoy sweet treats with a fancy flair? Or maybe you’re looking to whip up something beautifully decadent to impress your guests? Well, we have the perfect thing for you, and luckily, it’s also surprisingly easy to make! This Rose and Maca Chocolate Bark is sure to become your next go-to dessert. It features rich, dark chocolate, delicate rose petals, and an earthy hint thanks to organic maca powder. 

Not only will it satiate your sweet tooth, but its unique blend of ingredients will help to regulate your hormones and nervous system (thanks, maca!). And because of it’s beautiful presentation, it also makes a great addition to dinner parties, cozy evenings in, and even some good, old-fashioned self-indulgence. (We won’t judge!)

Why This Recipe Works

• It’s Adaptogenic: Maca powder is an adaptogen that has been known to help the body manage stress and support the nervous system.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants that provide a wealth of health benefits like enhancing your heart health, immune system, and even providing a brain boost!
• A Floral, Earthy Flavor: Those dried rose petals add a subtle floral note, which balances the deep richness of the chocolate and the earthy-ness of maca. It’s a tasty way to connect with nature. 
• Low Heat Gives You the Perfect Consistency: Melting the chocolate over low heat in a double boiler ensures that your chocolate ends up with a smooth, glossy texture.
• It’s Customizable: This basic recipe can be changed and customized to your liking with different toppings like goji berries, pumpkin seeds, or cashew nuts for extra crunch and color.

 

All About Maca

Maca, also known as “Peruvian ginseng,” has been a staple of Andean diets for centuries. It’s got an earthy flavor and a good reputation for boosting vitality. Here are some other things to note about maca before you decide to add it to your recipes:

• Potential Benefits:
  • It Supports Energy and Stamina: Many people find that maca gives them a natural energy boost without the jitteriness that often comes with caffeine.
  • It Can Balance Your Mood: Maca can help to support a balanced mood and provide mental clarity. It’s also been shown to reduce stress levels over time.
  • It’s Great for Hormone Regulation: Some research suggests that maca can help balance hormones. This can come in especially handy for those going through menopause or periods of hormonal fluctuation.
  • It Enhances Libido and Fertility: Maca has a reputation for enhancing libido (which makes it a powerful aphrodisiac), as well as improving fertility, which is something to consider if you’re planning for a family (or attempting to avoid that altogether).
• Who Should Avoid Maca?:
  • Pregnant and Nursing Individuals: Due to its hormone-affecting properties, maca may not be ideal for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Those with Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: People with conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or certain cancers should consult a healthcare provider before consuming it, as maca can influence hormone levels.
  • Anyone with Thyroid Issues: Maca contains goitrogens, which may interfere with thyroid function, especially in individuals with iodine deficiencies.
• Disclaimer: Always consult a healthcare professional before adding maca to your diet, especially if you’re managing any health conditions or have concerns.

 

Ingredients to Make this Rose & Maca Chocolate Bark Recipe 

• 3 cups dark chocolate chips (as long as it’s dairy-free)
• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract 
• 2 tbsp maca powder
• 3 tbsp hemp seeds 
• ¼ cup crushed pistachios
• ¼ cup dried rose petals
• Himalayan sea salt

 

How to Make Rose & Maca Chocolate Bark

Step 1: Melt the Chocolate

Set up a double boiler on your stovetop. Add the chocolate chips into the bowl and melt them over low heat, stirring occasionally. Once they’re melted, add in the coconut oil, vanilla extract, and maca powder. This will help you to avoid burning your chocolate and keep it silky smooth.

Step 2: Mix in Hemp Seeds and Rose Petals

Once the chocolate mixture is smooth, throw in half of your hemp seeds and half of your rose petals, and keep stirring gently. These ingredient will get coated in melted chocolate, and evenly impart their flavors into the mix.

Step 3: Pour and Spread the Chocolate

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and pour the chocolate mixture onto it. Spread it out to about ½ inch thickness. Sprinkle the rest of your hemp seeds, crushed pistachios, and rose petals over the top. Then lightly dust the chocolate with Himalayan sea salt and a bit more maca powder.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Place the baking sheet in the fridge and let the bark set for about 30 minutes. Once it’s firm, you can cut or break the chocolate into squares. Serve it at room temperature for the best texture.

 

Tips to Get the Perfect Chocolate Bark

• Parchment Paper is Key: Parchment paper will make sure the bark doesn’t stick to anything, and it’s easy to peel off for easy serving.
• Melt That Coconut Oil Slowly: Add in the coconut oil only AFTER the chocolate has fully melted for the smoothest texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: The world (or in this case, bark) is your oyster! Feel free to add in goji berries, sunflower seeds, cashews, swap out the vanilla for almond extract, or sprinkle in some raw cacao powder if you want to go all-out.
• Keep It Cool: Store your chocolate bark in the fridge to keep its perfect texture, especially if you’re using coconut oil, which can melt easily in warmer temperatures.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Absolutely! White chocolate is a great alternative if you like a sweeter treat, though it won’t have the same antioxidant benefits as dark chocolate.

What if I don’t have a double boiler?
No problem. Use a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water to gently melt the chocolate. This will prevent it from burning.

How long does the bark stay fresh?
If you store it in an airtight container in the fridge, it’ll last up to two weeks. Let it come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe with a nut-free option?
Of course! Swap out pistachios with pumpkin seeds or even hemp seeds to keep it nut-free.

Is maca chocolate bark suitable for kids?
Maca is generally safe in small amounts for most people, but it’s always good to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns, especially with kids.

 

What Will You Add To Your Chocolate Bark?

For this super customizable recipe, we can’t help but wonder what you might add to your chocolate bark. Is it nuts? Shaved coconut? Hazelnuts? Something entirely different? We’d love to know! 

Comment below with your go-to additions for this delightful sweet treat!

 

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