Crunchy, salty pretzels meet buttery caramel and creamy chocolate in this Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark, a treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. It’s a simple yet decadent dessert that’s ideal for gifting, snacking, or satisfying holiday cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini pretzels (roughly crushed): Adds crunch and a salty base.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Forms the caramel layer.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: For rich, buttery caramel.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: The decadent top layer.
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes: For a finishing salty touch.
Supplies Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Small saucepan
- Rubber spatula
Instructions
Prepare Your Workspace:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scatter the crushed pretzels evenly across the surface.
- Make the Caramel:
In a small saucepan, melt the butter and sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture turns a golden caramel color. - Pour the Caramel Over Pretzels:
Remove the caramel from heat and pour it evenly over the crushed pretzels. Use a spatula to spread it out, ensuring all pretzels are coated. - Bake for Extra Crispiness (Optional):
Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake the caramel-coated pretzels for 5 minutes. Remove and allow to cool slightly. - Melt the Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth. - Add the Chocolate Layer:
Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer, covering it completely. - Finish with Sea Salt:
Sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top while the chocolate is still warm. - Chill and Set:
Refrigerate the bark for at least 1 hour, or until firm. - Break and Serve:
Once set, remove the bark from the pan and break it into irregular pieces. Enjoy this sweet-and-salty delight!
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keeps fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Tip 1: Use high-quality chocolate for a smoother, richer finish.
- Tip 2: Line the baking sheet well to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Tip 3: For extra texture, add chopped nuts or crushed toffee bits to the caramel layer.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Pretzel Bark: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Peanut Butter Pretzel Bark: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer before it sets.
- Holiday Pretzel Bark: Add crushed candy canes or festive sprinkles to the top layer for a seasonal twist.
FAQ
Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
Yes, just warm it slightly and drizzle over the pretzels before adding the chocolate.
Q: Can I skip the chocolate layer?
Absolutely! The caramel and pretzels alone create a delicious treat.
Q: How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?
Work quickly to spread the caramel while it’s still warm and pliable.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Quick to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to share—or maybe keep all to yourself. Try it today and bring some extra crunch to your holiday season!
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