Discover how to make an easy treat – our chocolate pretzel bark recipe. The end result is a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Craving a delectable treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the irresistible crunch of pretzels? Look no further than chocolate pretzel bark!
This delightful confection strikes a perfect balance between sweet and salty, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite for all occasions. We’ll guide you through creating this tasty treat, complete with tips and variations.
This tried-and-true recipe is so simple to make and only requires a few ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Best of all, the mix of the salty pretzels with the buttery caramel is the perfect combination, guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends alike.
Chocolate caramel pretzel bark is a snack, a dessert, and a great gift all in one!
What is Chocolate Bark Used For?
- Snacking: Enjoy as a delicious and convenient snack.
- Dessert: Use as a topping for ice cream, cakes, or brownies.
- Gifting: Share as a thoughtful and homemade gift.
- Holiday Treats: Customize for different holidays or events.
How to Make Chocolate Pretzel Bark
*Scroll down for the printable recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate
- 1 ½ cups Mini Pretzels
- ½ C M&M’s
- ½ C Peanuts, chopped
Homemade Salted Caramel:
- 1 cup Sugar
- ½ cup Butter
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
INSTRUCTIONS
Begin with a baking sheet pan lined with parchment paper and place your pretzels in an even layer.
Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and melt chocolate in 30-second intervals. Stir after each interval until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
Pour the melted chocolate on top of the pretzels in a thin layer, place M&M’s and peanuts in an even layer on top of the chocolate.
To make the homemade caramel, heat sugar in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat. Stirring constantly with a rubber spatula. The sugar will begin to form clumps and will turn into a light amber color. Continue stirring as the sugar can easily burn.
Once the sugar is completely melted, add the butter. The butter will bubble so be careful when adding the butter.
Stir the butter into the sugar until it is completely melted. Use a whisk to stir the sugar and butter. Drizzle the heavy cream into the mixture and stir.
Let it boil for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt, allowing the caramel to set up. Once the caramel is done, pour over the pretzels. You may not use all of the caramel.
Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator or a cool, dry place to allow the chocolate bark to set. This usually takes around 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.
Once the chocolate bark is fully set and hardened, remove it from the baking sheet and peel off the parchment paper or silicone mat.
Break your candy bark into smaller, irregular pieces. You can use a knife to make straight cuts or simply snap it into random shapes.
Relevant Recipes
What Toppings Can I Add to Pretzel Bark?
Pretzel Bark is delicious all on its own, but the fun part is that it can be dressed up with a variety of toppings to make it even more special. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Sprinkles or other colorful candy such as M&M’s
- Chocolate chips or chunks
- Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
- Peanut Butter
- Coconut flakes
- Toffee Bits
- Candy Canes
- Dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, cherries, etc.)
- Mini marshmallows
- Crushed Oreos or graham crackers
The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting and customizing your chocolate pretzel bark to suit your preferences and occasions, such as a Christmas pretzel bark.
Storing & Freezing Pretzel Bark
Store your bark in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. Alternatively, you can freeze the bark in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, allow your bark to thaw at room temperature for about an hour beforehand.
Pretzel Chocolate Bark FAQs
How long will chocolate bark last?
Chocolate bark can have a relatively long shelf life if stored properly. Dark chocolate bark can last up to 2-3 months, while milk and white chocolate bark are best enjoyed within 1-2 months. To preserve freshness, store chocolate bark in an airtight container, avoid temperature fluctuations, and use wax paper to prevent sticking. If you need to store it for an extended period, freezing is an option, but be sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I use any type of chocolate for making pretzel bark?
Yes, you can use rich dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate, depending on your preference. You can also mix different types of chocolate for a unique flavor.
Can I use any kind of pretzels?
You can use various types of pretzels, including mini pretzels, pretzel rods, or pretzel twists. Choose the one you like best or have on hand.
Can I make chocolate pretzel bark in advance for gifting?
Chocolate pretzel bark is a great choice for homemade gifts. You can prepare it in advance, package it in decorative containers, and give it to friends and family for special occasions.
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Chocolate Pretzel Bark Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate
- 1 ½ cups Mini Salted Pretzels
- ½ C M&M’s
- ½ C Peanuts, chopped
- 1 cup Sugar
- ½ cup Butter
- ½ cup Heavy Cream
- ¼-1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
Instructions
Begin with a parchment lined baking sheet and place your pretzels in an even layer.
Melt the semi-sweet chocolate.
Place the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl and cook in 30-second increments, stirring well after each increment, until completely melted and smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate over the pretzels, place M&M’s and peanuts in an even layer on top of the chocolate.
In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sugar will begin to form clumps and will turn into a light amber color. Continue stirring as the sugar can easily burn.
Once the sugar is completely melted, add the butter. The butter will bubble so be careful when adding the butter.
Stir the butter into the sugar until it is completely melted. Use a whisk to stir the sugar and butter. Drizzle the heavy cream into the mixture and stir.
Let it boil for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt, allowing the caramel to set up. Once the caramel is done, pour over the pretzels. You may not use all of the caramel.
Cover and place in the refrigerator to chill for several hours. If you want to speed up the process, it can be placed in the freezer.
Cut into squares and serve.
Notes
What Toppings Can I Add to Pretzel Bark?
Pretzel Bark is delicious all on its own, but the fun part is that it can be dressed up with a variety of toppings to make it even more special. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Sprinkles or other colorful candy such as M&M’s
- Chocolate chips or chunks
- Chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts
- Peanut Butter
- Coconut flakes
- Toffee Bits
- Candy Canes
- Dried fruit (cranberries, apricots, cherries, etc.)
- Mini marshmallows
- Crushed Oreos or graham crackers
You can also make milk chocolate, rich dark chocolate bark or white chocolate bark. White Chocolate Oreo Pretzel Bark and White Chocolate Cranberry Pretzel Bark are two of our favorite things to make this time of year.
Storing & Freezing Pretzel Bark
Store your bark in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks at room temperature. Alternatively, you can freeze the bark in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, allow your bark to thaw at room temperature for about an hour beforehand.