A Sweet & Salty Delight
If you’re a fan of sweet and salty treats, this Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is about to become your new favorite indulgence. With layers of rich semi-sweet chocolate, crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, this easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a last-minute party treat, a homemade gift, or just a little something to satisfy your sweet tooth, this bark has got you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients – No need for fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. You likely already have everything in your pantry.
- Easy to Make – This recipe requires minimal effort and no baking!
- Perfect for Gifting – Pack it in a festive tin or gift bag for a thoughtful homemade present.
- Customizable – Swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is for anyone who loves the classic combination of sweet and salty flavors. It’s also a great option for busy home bakers who want an impressive treat without the hassle of complicated steps. Kids will love it, and adults won’t be able to resist either!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (one whole bag)
- 8 oz pretzels (half of a 16-oz bag)
- 11 oz Kraft caramel (one whole bag)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Kitchen Equipment
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Knife (for cutting into pieces)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring in between each time to ensure smooth consistency.
3. Create the Chocolate Base
Spread about ⅔ of the melted chocolate onto the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Add the Pretzels
Top the melted chocolate with the pretzels, pressing them down gently into the chocolate. No need to make them perfect—rustic works best!
5. Melt the Caramel
In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramels with the heavy cream for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.
6. Drizzle the Caramel
Evenly drizzle the caramel over the pretzels.
7. Finish with More Chocolate & Sea Salt
Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the top, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt for the perfect balance of flavors.
8. Chill & Serve
Chill in the fridge until set. If you don’t have fridge space, let it set at room temperature for about 2 hours. Once firm, cut or break into pieces and enjoy!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed bag.
- Room Temperature: Keep in a cool, dry place for up to 5 days.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Milk Chocolate Lover? Swap semi-sweet chocolate for milk chocolate.
- Extra Crunch? Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
- Dark Chocolate Delight? Use dark chocolate chips for a more intense flavor.
- Peanut Butter Twist? Drizzle melted peanut butter on top before setting.
Food & Drink Pairings
This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark pairs well with:
- Coffee or Espresso – The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness.
- Red Wine – Try a Merlot or Cabernet for a sophisticated pairing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – Crumble some bark on top for an elevated dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?
Yes! If you prefer homemade caramel, simply melt ½ cup of sugar with 2 tbsp of butter and ¼ cup of heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
My chocolate isn’t melting smoothly—what should I do?
Add ½ tsp coconut oil or vegetable oil to the chocolate while melting to keep it silky and smooth.
Can I make this bark dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
How do I get clean, sharp edges when cutting the bark?
Use a sharp knife and let the bark sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an instant hit for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for yourself, a party, or as a gift, this easy treat never disappoints.
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