The Best Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark

This salted caramel pretzel bark is one of my favorite quick desserts to make. It’s sweet, salty, crunchy, and chocolaty all at once—everything I love in a snack. The combination of buttery caramel, smooth melted chocolate, and crisp pretzels makes each bite irresistible. Best of all, it comes together in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s simple yet indulgent, and it doesn’t require any special equipment. The pretzels add a satisfying crunch, while the caramel provides rich sweetness, and the chocolate ties it all together. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt balances the flavors perfectly. It’s also easy to customize with different toppings, so I can make it a little different each time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups mini pretzels
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup soft caramels (about 15–20 pieces)
2 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. I spread the mini pretzels evenly across the prepared sheet.

3. In a saucepan, I melt the soft caramels with water over low heat until smooth.

4. I pour the caramel evenly over the pretzels, making sure they’re well coated.

5. I sprinkle the chocolate chips on top of the caramel, then bake for 5 minutes until softened.

6. I use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.

7. I finish by sprinkling flaky sea salt over the top.

8. Once cooled completely, I break or cut the bark into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 servings. The prep time is 15 minutes, the cook time is 10 minutes, and the total time is around 25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for extra crunch. White chocolate drizzle on top adds a fun twist, and I’ve even used peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips. Around the holidays, I like to sprinkle crushed peppermint candies for a festive touch.

Storage/reheating

I store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It can also be refrigerated for a slightly firmer texture. For longer storage, I freeze it for up to 2 months and let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?

Yes, but I prefer melting soft caramels since they set better and give the bark a chewy texture.

What type of pretzels work best?

I like using mini pretzels because they’re easy to spread out, but pretzel sticks or snaps work too.

Can I make this bark ahead of time?

Yes, I usually make it a day or two ahead—it keeps well and tastes just as good.

How do I cut the bark without it cracking unevenly?

I let it cool completely, then use a sharp knife. For a rustic look, I simply break it into pieces by hand.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, though milk chocolate will make it sweeter. Semi-sweet balances better with the salted caramel.

Conclusion

This salted caramel pretzel bark is one of the easiest yet most addictive treats I’ve ever made. I love how the combination of sweet caramel, salty pretzels, and smooth chocolate creates the perfect balance of flavors. Whether I serve it at a party or keep it for myself as a snack, it always disappears quickly. It’s a simple recipe that feels special every time.

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