Easy and Delicious Homemade Matzo Bark Recipe
Discover the joy of Matzo Bark, a creative twist on traditional saltine cracker candy. This versatile dessert offers a perfect base for exploring various flavors, making it an ideal treat for Passover or any time you want a delicious, crunchy snack.
When preparing Matzo Bark for Passover, it’s crucial to be mindful of dietary restrictions. Always look for ingredients marked “kosher for Passover” and consider the differences between Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions. If you’re a guest at a Passover Seder, consult with your host about any food you plan to bring.
This recipe uses kosher for Passover margarine, making it suitable for meat meals. However, if you’re serving it with a dairy meal, you can use butter for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that Matzo Bark is also an excellent way to use up leftover matzo after Passover, allowing you to experiment with a wider range of toppings.
While the origin of cracker-based candy bark is unclear, Marcy Goldman, author of “A Treasury of Jewish Holiday Baking,” is widely credited with creating the Matzo Bark variation. Our recipe is inspired by her creation and combines elements from traditional chocolate bark recipes.
Ingredients
- 4 to 6 sheets kosher for Passover matzo
- 1 cup (2 sticks) kosher for Passover margarine
- 1 cup (7 1/2 ounces) brown sugar, firmly packed
- 12 ounces high quality dark or semi-sweet kosher for Passover chocolate
- 1 vanilla bean
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions
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Prepare the Baking Sheet
Position the oven rack in the center and preheat to 350°F (180°C). Create a large aluminum foil sheet by joining two 20-inch pieces, folding them together along the long side. Use this to line a 12- by 17-inch rimmed baking sheet, ensuring the foil covers the entire surface and edges.
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Arrange the Matzo
Lay matzo sheets side-by-side in the pan, fitting them as tightly as possible without overlapping. Use broken pieces to fill any gaps at the bottom of the pan. Set aside. Chop the chocolate into chip-sized pieces and set aside as well.
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Prepare the Caramel
Split the vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape out the seeds. In a medium saucepan, melt the margarine over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add brown sugar and vanilla seeds, stirring to combine. Cook until the mixture turns an even dark brown color and starts bubbling, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and pour over the matzo, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
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Bake and Top
Bake the matzo for 5-10 minutes, or until the margarine mixture begins to bubble and the crackers start to brown lightly. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chopped chocolate evenly over the surface. Allow the heat to melt the chocolate for a few moments, then spread it evenly with a spatula to cover all the matzo.
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Finish and Serve
If desired, add any additional toppings while the chocolate is still warm. Refrigerate until the chocolate sets and hardens. Sprinkle with salt, then break into pieces and serve. Enjoy your homemade Matzo Bark!
Special Equipment
- Aluminum foil
- 12- by 17-inch rimmed baking sheet (jelly roll pan)
Nutritional Facts
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | |
|---|---|
| 241 | Calories |
| 15g | Fat |
| 26g | Carbs |
| 2g | Protein |
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings: 20 | |
| Amount per serving | |
| Calories | 241 |
| % Daily Value* | |
| Total Fat 15g | 19% |
| Saturated Fat 5g | 24% |
| Cholesterol 1mg | 0% |
| Sodium 124mg | 5% |
| Total Carbohydrate 26g | 10% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 5% |
| Total Sugars 18g | |
| Protein 2g | |
| Vitamin C 0mg | 0% |
| Calcium 20mg | 2% |
| Iron 2mg | 9% |
| Potassium 119mg | 3% |
| *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. | |
Tips for Perfect Matzo Bark
- For a dairy-free version, use high-quality dark chocolate that’s certified kosher for Passover.
- Experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor and texture.
- Store your Matzo Bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
- This recipe is easily customizable. Try using different types of chocolate or add a dash of cinnamon to the caramel for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Matzo Bark is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a dessert after your Passover Seder, pack it in lunchboxes for a sweet treat, or bring it to potlucks and gatherings. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and makes for a delightful afternoon snack.
Whether you’re celebrating Passover or simply looking for a delicious and easy-to-make sweet treat, this Matzo Bark recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its combination of crispy matzo, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate creates an irresistible texture and flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the process of making this treat and sharing it with loved ones!