This Pretzel Bark is a fast, sweet-and-salty treat made with melted chocolate, caramel, and crunchy pretzels. It requires only a few simple ingredients, comes together in minutes, and sets into an irresistible candy-like bark that’s perfect for snacking, gifting, or bringing to parties.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Uses only four basic ingredients.
No candy thermometer or special tools required.
Kid-friendly and ready in about 30 minutes.
Sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolatey all at once.
Great make-ahead treat for holidays and celebrations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (8 ounces for the base, 4 ounces for drizzling)
8 ounces mini pretzel twists (about half of a standard 16-ounce bag)
11 ounces caramel bits
2 tablespoons water (for melting the caramel)
Flake finishing salt for sprinkling
Directions
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt 8 ounces of the chocolate chips in the microwave on low heat, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly onto the prepared baking sheet.
Press the mini pretzel twists gently into the chocolate while it is still soft.
Place the caramel bits and 2 tablespoons of water in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 2 minutes, or according to package instructions, until fully melted. Stir well.
Drizzle the melted caramel generously over the pretzels.
Melt the remaining 4 ounces of chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel layer.
Sprinkle flake finishing salt over the top.
Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until fully set.
Break or cut into pieces and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 12 servings.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Dark Chocolate Bark: Replace the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a contrasting look and taste.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped roasted almonds or peanuts over the caramel before the final chocolate drizzle.
Extra Caramel Layer: Spread a slightly thicker layer of caramel for a chewier texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pretzels to make the entire bark gluten-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
Store Pretzel Bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
No reheating is required; simply allow refrigerated or frozen bark to warm slightly before serving if desired.
FAQs
How do I keep the chocolate from seizing when melting?
Use low heat and stir frequently. Melting in short intervals prevents overheating.
Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel bits?
Yes, homemade caramel works well as long as it is thick enough to drizzle.
Can I use milk chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, but milk chocolate is softer and sweeter, so the bark will be sweeter and may be slightly softer at room temperature.
How do I make clean cuts instead of breaking the bark?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then dried, to slice cleanly.
How long does the bark take to set?
About 30 minutes in the refrigerator, though thicker layers may require slightly longer.
Can I add toppings besides salt?
Yes—crushed nuts, dried fruit, or additional chocolate chips all work well.
Will the pretzels stay crunchy?
Yes, as long as the bark is stored properly in a dry, airtight container.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Use two baking sheets or one very large sheet pan.
Can I use pretzel sticks instead of twists?
Yes, any small pretzel shape works.
Does this recipe travel well for gifting?
Yes, because the bark stays firm and doesn’t melt easily when stored properly.
Conclusion
Pretzel Bark is a simple, crowd-pleasing sweet-and-salty treat that comes together quickly and requires no special equipment. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious, gift-worthy snack perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday cravings.
This Pretzel Bark is a sweet-and-salty chocolate treat made with pretzels, caramel, and a double layer of melted chocolate. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for parties, gifting, or snacking.
Ingredients
12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (8 oz for base, 4 oz for drizzle)
8 ounces mini pretzel twists
11 ounces caramel bits
2 tablespoons water
Flake finishing salt for sprinkling
Instructions
Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt 8 ounces of the chocolate chips in the microwave on low heat, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
Spread melted chocolate evenly onto the baking sheet.
Press mini pretzels into the soft chocolate layer.
Melt caramel bits with 2 tablespoons of water in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
Drizzle melted caramel over the pretzels.
Melt the remaining 4 ounces of chocolate and drizzle over the caramel layer.
Sprinkle with flake finishing salt.
Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until fully set.
Break or cut into pieces and serve.
Notes
Use dark or milk chocolate to customize sweetness and richness.
White chocolate drizzle adds visual contrast and extra sweetness.
Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for texture.
Gluten-free pretzels make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Warm a knife to slice the bark cleanly instead of breaking.
