Line a 10x15-inch pan or cookie sheet with wax paper.

Place chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl. I like to use a disposable paper bowl or re-usable plastic container for best results. Add shortening or oil. Heat chocolate chips on 50% power in 30 second increments, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.

Spread chocolate into an even layer on the prepared pan. Top with desired toppings. Chill to set then break into pieces. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days to 2 weeks (depending on the toppings you use; candy toppings last longer than pretzels or cookies, which tend to get stale).

Peppermint White Chocolate Bark: Sprinkle chopped candy canes or peppermint crunch over melted white chocolate.

M&M Chocolate Bark: Sprinkle holiday or any flavor M&Ms over melted white or regular chocolate.

Milk & Cookies Bark: Sprinkle chopped chocolate chip cookies and/or Oreos over melted white chocolate.

Peanut Butter Cup Bark: Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups over melted milk or semi-sweet chocolate.

Caramel Pretzel Bark: Sprinkle chopped pretzels and Rolos over milk or semi-sweet chocolate.

Almond Toffee Bark: Sprinkle almonds, toffee bits, and cocoa nibs over dark chocolate.

These are just a few ideas - there are so many options! Clean out your baking pantry and make your favorite flavor combo!