Christmas Pretzel Bark – Get into the holiday spirit with our Christmas Pretzel Bark. This delightful recipe combines the crispiness of pretzels, with the decadence of chocolate resulting in a treat for the festive season. Made with premium pretzel sticks, brown sugar, and quality dark chocolate this bark is guaranteed to be a hit at any Christmas gathering.
I still remember the first time I whipped up a batch of Christmas Pretzel Bark. It was a chilly evening in December. I wanted to try something new for our family’s Christmas party. The aroma of caramelized sugar blending with melting chocolate filled the kitchen luring my husband and child into the room with eyes and eager smiles. Their first bite brought forth a mix of sweetness. Saltiness has now become a cherished holiday tradition in our household.
What makes this Christmas Pretzel Bark truly stand out?
Our Christmas Pretzel Bark stands out for reasons. Firstly it strikes the balance between salty flavors appealing to a wide range of taste preferences. Additionally, this recipe is incredibly user-friendly making it an excellent choice, for both novice bakers and seasoned pros seeking an impressive holiday snack. Moreover, its adaptability enables personalization. You have the option to incorporate holiday-themed sprinkles or other garnishes that match any occasion. This not only turns it into a delight but also adds an aesthetically pleasing touch, to your holiday table.
What You Need To Make This Christmas Pretzel Bark Recipe?
Premium Pretzel Sticks: These pretzels are the foundation of our bark. Their crispy and salty taste provides the base creating a contrast, with the sweet toppings. I always recommend opting for the quality as it truly makes a difference.
Brown Sugar: This isn’t your sugar; it holds the secret to a molasses-like richness that brings character to our caramel. Packed brown sugar adds a warm sweetness that feels like a comforting embrace from within.
Unsalted Butter: The hero of our recipe. It produces a velvety caramel that holds everything together perfectly. I prefer using butter to control the level of saltiness especially since the pretzels already bring their salty kick.
Pure Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla is like the note in a symphony. It. Harmonizes all the flavors adding a layer of depth.
Fine Salt: A small amount of salt can work wonders. It’s not about enhancing taste; it’s about achieving balance—a captivating dance, between sweetness and savory elements.
High-Quality Dark Chocolate: This is where luxury meets our bark creation. The opulent yet bitter notes of premium dark chocolate bring an element of sophistication transforming each bite into a gourmet experience.
Festive Sprinkles: This is the opportunity to infuse some fun and flavor into your treat. Sprinkles bring a burst of color and happiness transforming each bite into a celebration. Select the colors that resonate with you and embody the essence of your holiday spirit.
Steps To Make Christmas Pretzel Bark:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Use parchment paper to line a baking sheet for a non-stick surface.
Step 2: Arrange the pretzels, on the baking sheet in a single layer.
Step 3: In a saucepan melt the butter along with sugar and salt over medium heat. Stir until it reaches boiling point then let it simmer for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens. Take it off the heat. Add some vanilla.
Step 4: Drizzle this caramel sauce over the pretzels making sure to cover them
Step 5: Bake for 5 minutes. Until everything becomes bubbly.
Step 6: Meanwhile melt the chocolate in bursts of 30 seconds in the microwave stirring between each burst.
Step 7: Pour the chocolate over the pretzels spreading it out evenly.
Step 8: If you like you can add sprinkles for a touch.
Step 9: Let it chill in the fridge for 3 to 4 hours or overnight until it sets.
Step 10: Cut into squares and savor! Store any leftovers, in an airtight container.
Tip:
The key, to making this recipe perfect is to create the caramel with temperature control. When you’re boiling the mixture of sugar and butter it’s important to monitor the temperature using a candy thermometer. Aim for a temperature range between 235°F to 245°F (113°C to 118°C) which is known as the soft ball stage in candy making. This will ensure that your caramel has the consistency. Not hard not too soft, but just right. It will have a smooth texture that perfectly complements the pretzels. Taking this step makes a difference in achieving that irresistible homemade caramel layer, in your Christmas Pretzel Bark.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Sure! You can use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
How long can I store the Christmas Pretzel Bark?
If you store the Christmas Pretzel Bark in an airtight container it should stay fresh for around 2 weeks.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free just substitute pretzels, with gluten-free ones. Enjoy your treat without worrying about gluten!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Christmas Pretzel Bark
Ingredients
- 1 tsp of pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp of fine salt
- 20 ounces 570 grams of high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
- Optional: Festive-themed confectionery sprinkles
- 15 ounces 425 grams of premium pretzel sticks
- 1 cup 200 grams of brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup 240 grams of unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet, with parchment paper.
- Spread out the pretzel sticks in a layer on the baking sheet.
- In a saucepan melt butter, brown sugar and salt together. Let it boil for 4 to 5 minutes until it thickens. Then remove it from the heat. Add some vanilla extract.
- Drizzle the caramel evenly over the pretzels on the baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven. Bake for 5 minutes.
- While the pretzels are baking, melt chopped chocolate in bursts in your microwave. Stir every 30 seconds to ensure melting.
- Once you take out the pretzels from the oven and let them cool for a minute pour the melted chocolate, over them making sure to spread it
- If you like you can sprinkle some themed confectionery sprinkles on top for a touch of decoration.
- Put the baking sheet in your refrigerator for around 3 to 4 hours or overnight until everything sets properly.
- Once everything is set cut your bark into squares. Enjoy! Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
