This recipe is all about contrast: sweet meets salty, crunchy meets smooth, and simple meets satisfying. It requires minimal prep and no baking, making it an ideal choice when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s also easily customizable and stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for parties or gifts.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
Roasted almonds (whole or chopped)
Mini pretzels or broken pretzel sticks
Sea salt (optional, for finishing)
White chocolate or caramel drizzle (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler until smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1/4 inch thick.
Immediately sprinkle chopped almonds and broken pretzels evenly over the chocolate.
Press them down gently to ensure they stick.
If desired, drizzle with melted white chocolate or caramel for extra flavor and decoration.
Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for enhanced contrast (optional).
Let the bark cool at room temperature or place in the refrigerator until fully set.
Once hardened, break into pieces and serve or store.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 20 pieces of bark. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with 30–40 minutes for the bark to set completely.
Variations
Nut-Free Version: Skip the almonds and use sunflower seeds or extra pretzels.
Fruit Add-In: Add dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart bite.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle a touch of cayenne or chili powder for heat.
Milk or White Chocolate Base: Use your favorite type of chocolate instead of dark for a different flavor.
Toffee Crunch: Add crushed toffee bits or caramel chips for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. No reheating is necessary—just thaw and enjoy if frozen.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate chips for melting?
Yes, chocolate chips work well. Just be sure to melt them slowly to avoid seizing.
Should I toast the almonds?
Toasting the almonds enhances their flavor, but it’s optional if you’re using pre-roasted nuts.
Can I make this bark vegan?
Yes, use dairy-free chocolate and make sure your pretzels and toppings are vegan-friendly.
How do I keep the bark from sticking to the pan?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
Can I use flavored pretzels?
Sure, just avoid overly seasoned ones that might clash with the chocolate.
How thick should I spread the chocolate?
Aim for about 1/4 inch thickness for a good ratio of chocolate to toppings.
What’s the best way to break the bark?
Once hardened, snap it by hand or use a sharp knife for cleaner edges.
Can I make bark ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for making ahead. Store it in an airtight container until ready to serve or gift.
Do I need to temper the chocolate?
Tempering helps prevent bloom (white streaks), but it’s not required for home use if stored properly.
Can I mix the almonds and pretzels into the chocolate?
Yes, you can mix them in before spreading the chocolate, but sprinkling on top creates a better texture and appearance.
Conclusion
Pretzel-Almond Bark is the ultimate quick-and-easy dessert that satisfies every craving. With its irresistible combination of salty, sweet, and crunchy elements, it’s a go-to treat for any occasion. Whether you’re gifting it or snacking on it yourself, this bark is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress with minimal effort.
Pretzel-Almond Bark is a quick, no-bake chocolate treat featuring crunchy roasted almonds, salty pretzels, and rich melted chocolate. Perfect for gifting, parties, or snacking, it’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:0 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes (including setting time)
Yield:20 pieces
Category:Dessert
Method:No-Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
1 cup roasted almonds, chopped or whole
1 cup mini pretzels or broken pretzel sticks
1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)
1/4 cup white chocolate or caramel, melted (optional for drizzle)
Instructions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals or using a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Sprinkle chopped almonds and pretzel pieces evenly over the melted chocolate.
Gently press the toppings into the chocolate to help them stick.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate or caramel if desired, and sprinkle sea salt on top.
Let the bark cool at room temperature or refrigerate for 30–40 minutes until fully set.
Once hardened, break into bite-sized pieces and enjoy or store.
Notes
Use parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.Toasting almonds before adding enhances their flavor.Add dried fruits or spices like cayenne for variation.Store in an airtight container at room temp, fridge, or freezer.Great make-ahead option for gifts or dessert platters.
