Pretzel Bark Recipe
Pretzel Bark is a delightful treat combining rich semi-sweet chocolate, crunchy mini pretzels, and luscious caramel, topped with a sprinkle of flake salt for the perfect sweet and salty balance. This no-bake dessert is easy to prepare and ideal for sharing or gifting during holidays and special occasions.
- Author: rami
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling time)
- Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake, Melting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Chocolate
- 12 ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (preferably Ghirardelli or Baker’s chocolate bar for melting)
Pretzels
- 8 ounces mini pretzel twists (half of a regular 16-ounce bag)
Caramel
- 11 ounce bag Kraft Caramel Bits or homemade caramel
- 2 tablespoons water (for melting caramel)
Finishing
- Flake finishing salt for sprinkling
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the pretzel bark.
- Melt the chocolate: Place 8 ounces of the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt on low heat in the microwave, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth and fully melted, ensuring no burning.
- Spread chocolate and add pretzels: Evenly spread the melted chocolate over the prepared parchment paper. Immediately sprinkle the mini pretzel twists on top, allowing some to overlap, and gently press them into the chocolate so they adhere well.
- Melt the caramel: Add the caramel bits and 2 tablespoons of water to a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes or according to package instructions, stirring well until smooth and melted.
- Drizzle caramel over pretzels: Using a spoon, drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the pretzel-covered chocolate layer, creating a sticky, sweet coating.
- Add remaining chocolate: Melt the remaining 4 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave until smooth. Drizzle this chocolate over the caramel layer to create a beautiful marbled effect and additional chocolate coating.
- Sprinkle salt and chill: Generously sprinkle flake finishing salt over the top to enhance the sweet and salty flavor. Refrigerate the bark until fully set, approximately 1-2 hours.
- Serve: Once firm, cut or tear the pretzel bark into bite-sized pieces. Enjoy this decadent treat as a snack or dessert.
Notes
- Use good quality chocolate for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- Homemade caramel can be substituted if preferred.
- Flake finishing salt adds a delicate crunch and balances sweetness; kosher or sea salt can work in a pinch.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a festive touch, add crushed nuts or sprinkles before chilling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 28g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Pretzel bark, chocolate caramel pretzel, no bake dessert, sweet and salty snack, easy holiday treat