Looking for a fun, easy recipe to try? This Easy Sesame Chocolate Bark Recipe (with tahini) is a must-make! It combines rich dark chocolate with creamy tahini for a flavor-packed treat. The toasted sesame seeds add crunch, making this bark irresistible and perfect for snacking or gifting.

With just a few ingredients and no fancy tools, you can whip up this dark chocolate bark in no time. It’s a simple way to elevate dessert without much effort. Keep reading for all the tips and tricks to make this recipe turn out perfect every time!

Ingredients you’ll need

This recipe calls for a few simple ingredients, found in any grocery store:

• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Bar: The rich dark chocolate is the foundation of the recipe, creating the bark’s structure and deep flavor. Its sweetness balances perfectly with the nutty tahini and salty sesame seeds.
• White Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a light crunch and bring out a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with tahini. They also add a bit of texture to every bite.
• Tahini: Creamy tahini blends seamlessly into the chocolate, adding a nutty richness without being overpowering. It gives the bark a smooth, velvety texture.
• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and tahini. It adds a savory contrast that makes the flavors pop even more.

Take a look at the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

Add-ons and Substitutions

Add-Ons

1. Chopped Nuts: Add pistachios, almonds, or hazelnuts for extra crunch and a nutty flavor.
2. Dried Fruit: Sprinkle chopped dried apricots, cranberries, or raisins for a chewy, sweet contrast.
3. Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or cayenne pepper for warmth or a spicy kick.
4. Seeds: Use pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds alongside sesame seeds for more texture.
5. Coconut Flakes: Lightly toasted coconut flakes add a tropical touch and a bit of crunch.
6. Edible Flowers: Sprinkle dried edible flowers like rose petals for a visually stunning presentation.
7. Chocolate Drizzle: After the bark is set, drizzle white or dark chocolate over the top for added flair.

Substitutions

1. Chocolate: Use dark chocolate (70% or higher) for a richer flavor.
2. Tahini: Replace tahini with almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty taste.
3. Sesame Seeds: Swap sesame seeds with chia seeds or hemp seeds for a unique texture and nutritional boost.
4. Flaky Sea Salt: Use flaky Maldon salt for a delicate salty finish, or omit it entirely for a purely sweet bark.

How to make Sesame Chocolate Bark

Line a 17-inch cookie sheet with parchment paper, ensuring the edges are covered to prevent sticking. Set it aside.

Using a double boiler or a heatproof bowl that fits snugly over a pot, melt your chocolate.

Fill the pot with 1-2 inches of water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir the chocolate frequently until smooth. Once melted, remove from heat. For more tips and tricks on how to melt chocolate follow this link!

Add the sesame seeds and tahini to the melted chocolate, stirring until fully combined and smooth. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to spread the chocolate into an even layer.

Tap the cookie sheet firmly on the counter a few times to help the chocolate spread evenly and remove any air bubbles.

Place the cookie sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes or until the chocolate is completely set. Sprinkle with sea salt on top of the chocolate and break the bark into pieces of your desired size. Store in an airtight container in a cool place or in the refrigerator.

Tips and Tricks to make the perfect bark

• Avoid Using Chocolate Chips: Chocolate chips are designed to hold their shape, so they contain less cocoa butter. This makes them harder to melt and unsuitable for smooth chocolate-based recipes. Stick to good quality chocolate bars for the best results.
• Bowl Not Touching Water: If using a heatproof bowl over a pot, ensure the bowl doesn’t touch the simmering water. High heat can burn the chocolate, so always melt it gently over low temperatures.
• Moisture and Chocolate: Chocolate and moisture don’t mix! Even a small amount of water can cause the chocolate to seize and become grainy. Keep all tools and surfaces completely dry, especially when using a double boiler.
• Finely Chopped Chocolate: Chop the chocolate into small, evenly-sized pieces to help it melt more quickly and evenly. This prevents overheating parts of the chocolate while other pieces are still solid.
• Use Good-Quality Tahini: Opt for smooth, well-mixed tahini to ensure a creamy texture in your bark. If your tahini is separated, stir it thoroughly before adding.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your tahini isn’t cold from the fridge, as it can cause the chocolate to harden too quickly while mixing.
• Spread Quickly: Once mixed, work swiftly to spread the chocolate-tahini mixture onto the baking sheet before it starts to set.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should I store sesame chocolate bark?

​Store your sesame chocolate bark in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If your kitchen is warm, keeping it in the refrigerator works best to prevent melting or softening.

Can I freeze sesame chocolate bark?

​Yes! You can freeze the bark to keep it fresh for longer. Place the pieces in an airtight container or freezer bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, let it thaw at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

​Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. The bark stays fresh for up to two weeks when stored properly. You can prepare it in advance for holiday gifts, parties, or as a quick treat to have on hand.

My chocolate didn’t spread evenly. What went wrong?

​If your chocolate didn’t spread evenly, try tapping the baking sheet firmly on the counter a few more times. This helps the mixture settle and eliminates air bubbles. Next time, make sure the chocolate is fully melted and fluid before pouring.

Can I skip the tahini or sesame seeds?

​Yes, you can leave out tahini or sesame seeds, but the bark will lose its nutty flavor and texture. Feel free to substitute with other ingredients like nut butter or different seeds if needed!

What’s the best chocolate to use?

​High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate bars work best for this recipe. Avoid chocolate chips, as they don’t melt as smoothly. Look for chocolate with at least 50% cocoa for a rich flavor.

Take a look at the links below for similar recipes, or click this link for more dessert treat recipes.

Check out this how-to video link to see exactly how to make this Sesame Chocolate Bark.

If you make this recipe, please be sure to give it a star rating and leave a comment!