Description
This Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bark is a delightful treat combining the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Crunchy mini salted pretzels are embedded in rich semi-sweet chocolate, topped with a luscious homemade or store-bought caramel layer, and finished with a silky milk chocolate coating. It’s an easy no-bake recipe ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Chocolate Bark Base
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate
- 1 1/2 cups Mini Salted Pretzels
- 1 cup Milk Chocolate
Homemade Caramel
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1/2 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/4-1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt
Optional
- 1 package Soft Caramels (if not making homemade caramel)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Surface: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it to prevent the chocolate bark from sticking once it hardens.
- Melt the Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the semi-sweet chocolate. If microwaving, reduce power to 50% and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each until fully melted.
- Assemble the Base: Immediately press the mini salted pretzels into the melted semi-sweet chocolate so they stick as the chocolate sets.
- Make Homemade Caramel (optional): In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir sugar constantly until it melts into a smooth amber-colored syrup. Carefully add the butter, stirring until melted and combined. Slowly whisk in heavy cream, bring to a gentle boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Allow caramel to set slightly before pouring.
- Melt Store-Bought Caramels (optional): If not making homemade caramel, melt the package of soft caramels following the package instructions.
- Layer the Caramel: Pour the prepared caramel over the pretzel and chocolate base, spreading evenly. Note that you may not need all the caramel.
- Melt the Milk Chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate using the same microwave method described before.
- Top with Milk Chocolate: Spoon or use a flat spatula to spread the melted milk chocolate over the caramel layer, extending close to the edges.
- Chill to Set: Cover the bark and refrigerate for several hours until firm. To speed up chilling, place in the freezer instead.
- Serve: Once fully set, cut the bark into squares and enjoy your delicious chocolate caramel pretzel bark.
Notes
- Use parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Reduce microwave power when melting chocolate to avoid burning or seizing.
- Watch caramel carefully while melting sugar; it can burn quickly.
- Sea salt enhances the sweet-salty contrast but can be adjusted or omitted based on preference.
- Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For quicker setting, use the freezer but monitor to prevent cracking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American