Introduction

Pretzel bark is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for satisfying your snack cravings. This easy-to-make treat features layers of smooth chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and rich caramel topped with a sprinkle of flaky salt. It’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly for a delicious homemade indulgence.

Ingredients

12 ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips
8 ounces mini pretzel twists (about half of a regular 16-ounce bag)
11 ounce bag Kraft Caramel Bits (or homemade caramel)
Flake finishing salt for sprinkling
2 tablespoons water (for melting caramel)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
Step 2: Melt 8 ounces of the semi-sweet chocolate chips gently in the microwave on low heat, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the parchment-lined baking sheet. Immediately scatter the mini pretzel twists over the chocolate, allowing some overlap, and gently press them to adhere.
Step 4: Place the caramel bits in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Melt on high heat for 2 minutes according to the package instructions. Stir the caramel well until smooth, then drizzle it over the pretzels and chocolate layer.
Step 5: Melt the remaining 4 ounces of chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel layer. While still warm, sprinkle flake finishing salt evenly on top for a perfect salty touch.
Step 6: Refrigerate the bark until fully set, about 1 hour. Once firm, cut or break it into pieces and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For an extra flavor boost, try using a mix of dark and milk chocolate or adding chopped nuts between the layers.
If you prefer softer caramel, warm the bark slightly before serving to soften the caramel layer.
Use homemade caramel if you want a richer, less processed taste.
Sprinkle crushed peppermint or cinnamon over the final chocolate drizzle for a festive twist.

Storage

Store pretzel bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For best texture, allow the bark to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. You can also freeze the bark wrapped well; thaw in the fridge before eating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular-sized pretzels instead of mini twists?

Yes, regular-sized pretzels work well too. You may want to break them into smaller pieces to ensure even coverage and easier eating.

What if I don’t have caramel bits?

You can substitute caramel bits with soft caramels melted with a splash of cream or butter. Heat gently to avoid burning and stir until smooth before drizzling.

Pretzel Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.8 from 137 reviews

Pretzel Bark is a delightful sweet and salty treat featuring layers of melted semi-sweet chocolate, crunchy mini pretzels, and rich caramel drizzled on top. Finished with a sprinkle of flake sea salt, this easy no-bake dessert is perfect for snack time or gifting.

Author: Bella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Layer

12 ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips (divided into 8 ounces and 4 ounces)

Salty Crunch

8 ounces mini pretzel twists (half of a regular 16-ounce bag)

Caramel Drizzle

11 ounce bag Kraft Caramel Bits (or homemade caramel)
2 tablespoons water

Finishing Touch

Flake finishing salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Melt Initial Chocolate Layer: Place 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and gently melt at low power, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth and fully melted.
Spread Chocolate and Add Pretzels: Evenly spread the melted chocolate over the prepared parchment paper. Immediately scatter the mini pretzel twists over the chocolate, allowing some to overlap. Gently press them into the chocolate to ensure they stick.
Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits with 2 tablespoons of water. Microwave on high for about 2 minutes or according to package instructions, stirring well until the caramel is smooth and melted.
Drizzle Caramel Over Pretzels: Spoon or drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the pretzel-covered chocolate layer to create a luscious, sticky middle layer.
Top with Remaining Chocolate: Melt the remaining 4 ounces of chocolate chips in the microwave using the same gentle melting method. Drizzle this melted chocolate over the caramel layer for a beautiful two-tone look.
Add Finishing Salt: While the top chocolate layer is still warm, sprinkle flake finishing salt over the entire bark to enhance the flavor with a subtle salty crunch.
Set and Serve: Refrigerate the bark until fully set and firm, about 1 to 2 hours. Once set, cut or tear into pieces and enjoy your sweet and salty treat!

Notes

Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
If preferred, homemade caramel can be used instead of Kraft Caramel Bits.
Press pretzels lightly into the chocolate to ensure they adhere well but avoid breaking them.
Store leftover bark in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
Adjust flake salt amount according to taste preference for sweetness and saltiness balance.

Keywords: Pretzel Bark, chocolate pretzel bark, caramel pretzel bark, no bake dessert, sweet and salty snack, holiday treats