Introduction

Salted caramel pretzel bark is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors with a satisfying crunch. This easy-to-make treat layers creamy milk chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and rich caramel for a perfect snack or gift.

The image shows several square pieces of a layered treat arranged on white parchment paper placed on a white marbled surface. Each piece consists of a bottom layer of dark brown chocolate, followed by a layer of small, light beige pretzel sticks creating a crunchy texture. On top, there is a thick, shiny caramel layer with a rich golden-brown color, covering the pretzels. Finally, the top is decorated with thin, dark brown chocolate drizzles crossing each piece, adding a textured look. Small crumbs and broken bits of chocolate and pretzel lie around the pieces, creating a casual, homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 (12 oz) bag milk chocolate chips
8 oz pretzels (half of a 16 oz bag)
1 (11 oz) bag Kraft caramels, unwrapped
2 tbsp heavy cream

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Step 2: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring well between each until smooth and fully melted.
Step 3: Spread two-thirds of the melted chocolate evenly onto the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Arrange pretzels in a single, even layer over the chocolate, gently pressing them lightly into the chocolate.
Step 5: Melt the unwrapped caramels with the heavy cream in the microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through until smooth. Drizzle the caramel evenly over the pretzels.
Step 6: Drizzle the remaining melted chocolate over the caramel and pretzels to finish.
Step 7: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill until the bark is fully set and firm, about 1 hour.

Tips & Variations

Use mini pretzels for a more delicate texture and even coverage.
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for an extra salty crunch and visual appeal.
Substitute dark chocolate chips for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or almonds over the caramel before adding the final chocolate layer.

Storage

Store the salted caramel pretzel bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep it crisp, avoid storing it in humid environments. If you prefer it chilled, keep it in the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This bark does not require reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a stack of two square pieces of a dessert made with three clear layers: the bottom layer is dark chocolate with visible pretzel bits embedded, the middle layer is golden brown caramel mixed with whole pretzels, and the top layer is decorated with a shiny caramel drizzle over pretzels and a crisscross pattern of smooth milk chocolate. The pieces rest on a white marbled surface scattered with broken bits of pretzels and chocolate. The texture looks crunchy, gooey, and smooth all together. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without a microwave?

Yes, you can melt the chocolate chips and caramels using a double boiler on the stovetop. Stir frequently to avoid burning and remove from heat once fully melted and smooth.

What kind of pretzels work best for this bark?

Small, crunchy pretzels like pretzel twists or rods hold up best and provide a nice texture contrast. Avoid soft pretzels as they may become soggy.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 111 reviews

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark combines rich milk chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and gooey caramel to create a perfectly sweet and salty treat. Easy to make and ideal for gifting or snacking, this no-bake dessert offers layers of flavor and texture that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Author: Lila
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: About 20 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chocolate Layer

12 oz Milk Chocolate Chips (1 bag)

Pretzel Layer

8 oz Pretzels (half of a 16 oz bag)

Caramel Layer

11 oz Kraft Caramels, unwrapped (1 bag)
2 tbsp Heavy Cream

Instructions

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set it aside for later use.
Melt Chocolate: Place the milk chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl and melt them in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Spread Chocolate Base: Pour and spread about two-thirds of the melted chocolate evenly over the parchment paper-lined baking sheet to create the base layer.
Add Pretzels: Arrange the pretzels evenly over the melted chocolate, then gently press them into the chocolate so they adhere firmly as it sets.
Melt Caramel Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave for 2 minutes, stirring midway, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
Drizzle Caramel: Evenly drizzle the melted caramel mixture over the layer of pretzels on the chocolate base.
Top with Remaining Chocolate: Drizzle the remaining one-third of the melted chocolate all over the top of the caramel and pretzel layers to finish.
Chill and Set: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill until the bark is set and firm, about 1 to 2 hours. Once set, break into pieces and serve.

Notes

For easier cutting or breaking, warm the bark slightly at room temperature before handling.
You can substitute milk chocolate chips with dark or white chocolate chips for flavor variations.
Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before chilling for extra saltiness.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
If you don’t have Kraft caramels, any good-quality caramel candies can be used.

Keywords: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark, Chocolate Bark, Caramel Dessert, No-Bake Treat, Sweet and Salty Snack