Ina’s Go-To Hostess Gift Could Not Be Easier to Whip Together

It’s never a bad idea to bring a little something to give as a hostess gift when you show up for a party, especially during the holidays. And Ina Garten (our favorite hostess with the most-ess) has the perfect party gift that’s easy and simple to make — even at the last minute.

She posted a photo of this special treat on her Instagram account, singing the praises of her homemade chocolate bark recipe, studded with colorful dried fruit and nuts.

We have to agree. Ina’s bark looks luxurious and fancy, not to mention tasty, with a perfect balance of spices, tart flavors, and sweetness to boot. You can break it up into pieces and pack it inside a holiday-themed box or container, then wrap it up as you like, and it’ll look as though you had purchased it at the store for way more than it cost you to make it. 

The whole recipe just needs seven key ingredients. First you’ll need to bake the cashews in the oven for a few minutes, let them cool, and start to melt the semisweet and bittersweet chocolate in the microwave to get them warm. Once the chocolate is melted (take note of Ina’s directions, as this part can be a bit tricky!), the rest of the process is smooth sailing. You simply top the chocolate with the rest of the nuts, spices, ginger, and fruit pieces. However, if you want it to look as pretty as Ina’s bark, pay attention to the order she lists and method behind where to place the ingredients. (Attention to detail has always been Ina’s specialty.)

You’re sure to make an impression on your host (and the guests if your host is willing to share). Plus, you can always make another batch of bark to keep at home for all of your French chocolate bark needs.

Get the recipe: French Chocolate Bark from Barefoot Contessa