Introduction

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is a delightful mix of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors that make an irresistible snack or gift. With buttery caramel coating crunchy pretzels and a drizzle of rich chocolate topped with sea salt, this treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The image shows two square pieces of a layered dessert stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface. Each piece has three visible layers: a bottom layer of crunchy pretzel sticks fused together in a beige color, a middle layer of thick golden caramel dripping slightly over the edges, and a top layer of smooth milk chocolate with dark chocolate drizzles creating thin lines across it. Large flakes of coarse sea salt are scattered evenly over the top chocolate layer, adding texture and contrast. The edges of the dessert pieces show the distinct layers and the caramel oozing softly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups pretzel sticks (Use stick pretzels for best results)
1 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 cup packed brown sugar (for sweet caramel flavor)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the flavor)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted for drizzling)
Sea salt (to taste, for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure it is large enough to hold all the pretzels in a single layer.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring continuously until it comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3 minutes without stirring.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and carefully stir in the vanilla extract—it will bubble up so take care.
Step 4: Pour the pretzel sticks into a large bowl and drizzle the caramel mixture over them. Gently stir to coat all the pretzels evenly.
Step 5: Spread the coated pretzels evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each until fully melted.
Step 7: Use a spoon to drizzle the melted chocolate over the pretzels on the baking sheet.
Step 8: While the chocolate is still soft, sprinkle sea salt to taste over the top.
Step 9: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the bark is set and firm.
Step 10: Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy your salty-sweet treat!

Tips & Variations

Use stick pretzels for easier coating and a satisfying crunch.
For a different flavor, try white or dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
Add chopped nuts or toffee bits for extra texture and taste.
If you want a softer caramel, reduce the boiling time slightly.

Storage

Store the pretzel bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. It can also be refrigerated to keep it firm for longer, about two weeks. To re-crisp after refrigeration, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows two stacked sweet bars with four visible layers. The bottom layer is a crunchy, light brown cracker base. Above that is a layer of small, evenly spread pretzel pieces that are golden brown. The third layer is a thick, rich caramel with a shiny texture dripping slightly at the edges. On top is a smooth, dark chocolate layer with thin dark chocolate drizzle lines zigzagged across it. Large salt flakes are scattered on the chocolate surface, adding a rough texture. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pretzel for this recipe?

Yes, but stick pretzels work best because they coat evenly and hold together well. Mini pretzels or twisted shapes can also be used but may require more careful coating.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Keep the heat on medium and stir continuously until the mixture boils. Once boiling, let it cook without stirring for the recommended time. Remove immediately after boiling to avoid burning.