Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark Recipe
Introduction
Salted caramel pretzel bark is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. This easy no-bake treat brings together smooth milk chocolate, chewy caramel, and crunchy pretzels for a perfect snack or gift.
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) bag milk chocolate chips
- 8 oz pretzels (half of a 16 oz bag)
- 1 (11 oz) bag Kraft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Step 2: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Step 3: Spread two-thirds of the melted chocolate evenly over the parchment paper on the baking sheet.
- Step 4: Arrange the pretzels in a single layer over the melted chocolate, gently pressing them in to ensure they stick.
- Step 5: Melt the unwrapped caramels with the heavy cream in the microwave for 2 minutes, stirring until smooth. Drizzle the caramel evenly over the pretzels.
- Step 6: Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the top to create a marbled effect.
- Step 7: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill until the bark is fully set and firm, about 1 hour.
Tips & Variations
- Use good quality chocolate for a richer flavor and smoother texture.
- Swap milk chocolate for dark or white chocolate to change the taste profile.
- Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before chilling for an extra salty crunch.
- Try crushed pretzels instead of whole for a different texture.
Storage
Store the salted caramel pretzel bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator. To enjoy, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramels?
Yes, you can substitute caramel sauce, but adjust the quantity and consistency. Use a thicker caramel sauce to prevent melting the chocolate too much.
How do I prevent the chocolate from melting too soft when layering?
Make sure to let each layer set slightly before adding the next drizzle. Working quickly and chilling the bark helps maintain the layers without mixing them.
PrintSalted Caramel Pretzel Bark Recipe
This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is a delightful treat combining rich milk chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and gooey caramel with a touch of heavy cream for smoothness. Perfect as a snack or gift, this no-bake bark brings together sweet, salty, and crunchy textures that’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chocolate Layer
- 12 oz Milk Chocolate Chips (1 bag)
Pretzels
- 8 oz Pretzels (half of a 16 oz bag)
Caramel Drizzle
- 11 oz Kraft Caramels, unwrapped (1 bag)
- 2 tbsp Heavy Cream
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to cool and solidify the bark once assembled.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate chips in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Spread Chocolate Base: Spread about two-thirds of the melted chocolate evenly over the parchment paper-lined baking sheet to create the base layer.
- Add Pretzels: Lay the pretzels evenly over the melted chocolate and gently press them in so they stick and slightly embed into the chocolate layer.
- Melt Caramel Mixture: Combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl and heat for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the caramel is melted and smooth.
- Drizzle Caramel: Drizzle the melted caramel evenly over the pretzels, adding a rich, sweet layer that complements the salty crunch.
- Top with Remaining Chocolate: Use the remaining melted chocolate to drizzle all over the caramel and pretzel layer, adding a final chocolatey touch for flavor and appearance.
- Chill to Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator until the bark is completely set and firm, making it easy to break into pieces for serving.
Notes
- You can substitute milk chocolate chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure the caramel and heavy cream mixture is smooth before drizzling to avoid clumps.
- Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and prevent melting.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a small amount of flaky sea salt on top after drizzling the chocolate.
- Break the bark into irregular pieces for a rustic look and easy serving.
Keywords: Salted caramel, Pretzel bark, Chocolate bark, Easy dessert, No bake, Sweet and salty snack
