Name: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips; 8 oz pretzels; 11 oz Kraft caramel; 2 tbsp heavy cream; Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Hey there, fellow dessert enthusiasts! If you’re anything like me, the kitchen is more than just a space to cook, it’s a little corner of joy where sweet dreams come to life. Today, we’re diving into a treat that’s not only easy to make but also indulgently delicious: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark. This delightful creation combines the crunchy goodness of pretzels, the smooth richness of chocolate, and the heavenly sweetness of caramel, all topped off with a sprinkle of sea salt. Are you ready to experience a dessert that feels like a cozy hug? Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!

Why Make This Recipe

You might be wondering, “Why should I whip up some Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark?” Well, let me tell you, this treat checks all the right boxes! For one, it’s incredibly simple to make. You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to impress your friends or satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s the perfect combination of sweet and salty, a delightful dance for your taste buds!

Moreover, this bark is incredibly versatile. You can serve it at parties, keep it as a treat for a self-care night, or give it as a heartfelt gift. And let’s not forget the best part: it only takes about 30 minutes to prepare! So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a little something to brighten your day, Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is your go-to recipe.

How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

Ready to make your own batch of Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark? Gather up those ingredients, and let’s get cracking!

Ingredients

12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips (one whole bag)
8 oz pretzels (half of a 16-oz bag)
11 oz Kraft caramel (one whole bag)
2 tbsp heavy cream
Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Directions

Prep Your Workspace: Start by lining a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will be the base for your delightful bark, so set it aside for now.
Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, pour in your semi-sweet chocolate chips. Microwave them in 30-second increments, stirring in between each interval to ensure even melting. When melted and smooth, you’re ready for the next step!
Spread the Chocolate: Take about 2/3 of your melted chocolate and spread it evenly over the lined baking sheet. Don’t worry about making it perfect; just cover the surface!
Add the Pretzels: Now, it’s time for the pretzels to shine! Sprinkle them over the melted chocolate however you like, pressing them down gently to secure them in place. The more, the merrier!
Prepare the Caramel: In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the Kraft caramels with the heavy cream. Microwave on high for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s all melted and smooth.
Drizzle the Caramel: Take that delicious caramel mixture and drizzle it evenly over the pretzels. This is where the magic really happens!
Add More Chocolate: With your remaining melted chocolate, drizzle it over the caramel layer. It creates a beautiful marbled effect and brings everything together.
Sprinkle with Salt: To finish it off, grab your sea salt and sprinkle it over the top. This little touch balances out the sweetness perfectly.
Chill to Set: Place your creation in the fridge until it’s set. You can also let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours if you want it to set naturally.
Slice and Serve: Once set, chop the bark into pieces and enjoy your decadent treat with friends or savor it all by yourself (no judgment here!).

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

Serving your Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is just as fun as making it! You can present it on a pretty platter for gatherings or wrap individual pieces in cellophane bags tied with a ribbon for a thoughtful gift. It’s delicious as a post-dinner dessert or paired with a cup of hot chocolate or coffee.

Delicious salted caramel pretzel bark with chocolate and pretzel pieces

How to Store Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

If you manage to have some leftovers (which is a big if!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you’re in a hot climate, it’s a good idea to refrigerate it to keep everything intact. Just know; the texture may change slightly in the fridge.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for good-quality chocolate chips and caramel for a richer flavor.
Mix Up the Nuts: Feel free to add nuts or other toppings like crushed Oreos or toffee bits for added crunch and flavor.
Go for the Flake Salt: Using flaky sea salt enhances the look and adds a delicate touch to the flavor.
Experiment with Chocolate Types: While semi-sweet is delightful, you can try dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.

Variation

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding crushed candy canes during the holiday season for a festive twist. You could also swap out the pretzels for potato chips for a sweet and salty sensation like none other!

FAQs

1. Can I use different kinds of chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate or dark chocolate can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate. Just note that the sweetness level may vary based on your choice.

2. What if I don’t have Kraft caramel?

You can use any soft caramel candies, just be sure to melt them with a bit of cream for a smooth consistency. Alternatively, you can make your own caramel sauce!

3. Can I add more toppings?

You sure can! Chopped nuts, mini marshmallows, or even drizzles of white chocolate would enhance the flavor and make it uniquely yours.

So there you have it! A delightful recipe to bring warmth, joy, and a bit of that kitchen magic into your life. I hope you give this Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark a try. It’s a treat that truly embodies the love and creativity of baking. Enjoy, sweet friends!