Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and salty flavors of rich caramel, crunchy pretzels, and smooth chocolate. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for parties, gift-giving, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to be a hit!

Ingredients List

For the Bark:

• 1 cup pretzel sticks (or mini pretzels)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate chips)
• 1 cup caramel candies (wrapped)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• Sea salt, for sprinkling

Timing

Preparing Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooling, totaling approximately 30 minutes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet

1. Line a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the bark from sticking.

Step 2: Melt the Caramel

1. Melt Caramels: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. This usually takes about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Bark

1. Spread Pretzels: Evenly spread the pretzel sticks over the prepared baking sheet, creating a single layer.
2. Pour Caramel: Drizzle the melted caramel over the pretzels, making sure to cover them as much as possible. Use a spatula to spread it gently if needed.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

1. Melt Chocolate: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips using the same method as the caramel (30-second intervals, stirring in between) until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Chill

1. Pour Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pretzels, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover all the pretzels.
2. Sprinkle Sea Salt: Immediately sprinkle sea salt over the top of the chocolate while it’s still warm.

Step 6: Cool and Set

1. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chocolate and caramel are fully set.

Step 7: Break Into Pieces

1. Break the Bark: Once set, remove the bark from the refrigerator and break it into pieces or cut it into squares.
2. Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark (per piece, assuming 16 pieces):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	150
Protein	1g
Fat	7g
Carbohydrates	22g
Fiber	1g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for added crunch.
• Use Different Chocolates: Try dark chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.
• Drizzle More Caramel: For extra sweetness, drizzle more melted caramel on top before it sets.

Serving Suggestions

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark pairs well with:

• A cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• Ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overheating the Caramel: Be careful not to overheat the caramel; it can become too thick to spread.
2. Not Using Parchment Paper: Skipping the parchment paper can make it difficult to remove the bark from the baking sheet.
3. Skipping the Sea Salt: The sea salt enhances the flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can create Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark, a deliciously sweet and salty treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. This simple yet indulgent dessert is sure to become a favorite!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of candies?

Yes! You can use store-bought caramel sauce, but the texture may be slightly different.

Can I freeze the bark?

Yes! You can freeze the bark for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What if I don’t have pretzel sticks?

You can use any type of pretzels, including pretzel crisps or mini pretzels.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like crushed candy canes, sprinkles, or drizzles of additional chocolate.