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Easy Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark Recipe for Irresistible Homemade Snacks

salted caramel pretzel bark - featured image

A quick and easy snack combining sweet caramel, salty pretzels, and rich chocolate for a crunchy, addictive treat perfect for gifting or parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups mini pretzels (about 120g)
  • 1 cup caramel candies (about 160g), preferably Werther’s Original
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream (30ml)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28g), softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
  • 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips (90g)
  • Optional: chopped nuts (pecans or almonds)
  • Optional: gluten-free pretzels and dairy-free caramel and chocolate for vegan version

Instructions

  1. Line a rimmed baking sheet (9×13 inches or 23×33 cm) with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Spread 4 cups of mini pretzels evenly across the lined sheet in a single layer.
  3. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup caramel candies, 2 tablespoons heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and fully melted (about 1-2 minutes).
  4. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract if using.
  5. Pour the melted caramel over the pretzels and spread gently with a spatula to cover evenly but not completely submerge the pretzels.
  6. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt evenly over the warm caramel.
  7. Melt 1/2 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips in a separate microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  8. Drizzle the melted chocolate in thin lines over the caramel layer using a spoon or fork.
  9. Optionally sprinkle chopped nuts or extra pretzel pieces over the chocolate while still wet.
  10. Chill the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm. Alternatively, chill in the freezer for 30 minutes.
  11. Once set, lift the bark from the parchment and break into irregular chunks.

Notes

Keep the bark chilled while setting to avoid melting, especially in warm weather. Work quickly when spreading caramel as it thickens fast. Avoid overheating caramel and chocolate to prevent graininess. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 weeks or freeze up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel, pretzel bark, easy snack, homemade treats, caramel pretzel bark, chocolate drizzle, quick dessert, party snack