Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Pretzel Bark

Name: Super Bowl Dessert Chocolate Pretzel Bark
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pretzels; 12 oz chocolate chips (milk or dark); 1 cup M&M's or other toppings of choice; Sprinkles (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Plate Creations

I love creating snacks for the Super Bowl, and this Chocolate Pretzel Bark has become one of my favorites. It's a fun blend of sweet and salty that perfectly captures the spirit of game day. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, I can whip up a treat that everyone will enjoy. Not only does it taste amazing, but the colorful toppings make it a festive addition to the snack table. Trust me, this is a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests coming back for more!

Created by

Lucinda Price

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:55:14.747Z

I vividly remember the first time I made Chocolate Pretzel Bark for a Super Bowl party. The combination of the crunchy pretzels and smooth chocolate was a hit with all my friends, and I knew I had to share it. The best part is how easily it comes together; simply melt the chocolate, mix in pretzels, and add your favorite toppings. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, truly unforgettable!

This recipe allows for endless customization, which is part of the fun! The first time, I used M&M's, but the next batch had crushed nuts and sprinkles for a festive touch. Experimenting with different toppings has become a fun tradition, and I can't wait to see what combinations everyone comes up with this year!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly crunchy with a perfect balance of sweet and salty
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy game day prep
Great for customizing with your favorite toppings!

      

Balancing Sweet and Salty

The combination of sweet chocolate and salty pretzels creates a flavor profile that is both exciting and satisfying. The chocolate acts as a rich coating that complements the crunchy texture of the pretzels. When choosing your chocolate chips, opt for high-quality brands to ensure a smooth melt and a glossy finish. Dark chocolate brings a more intense flavor, which can mellow with the sweetness of the toppings, while milk chocolate will offer a creamier, sweeter experience that pairs beautifully with the saltiness of the pretzels.

To elevate the sweet-salty balance even further, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top just before serving. This extra hint of salt enhances the overall flavor and adds an unexpected twist that can make each bite even more delicious. If you find the chocolate too sweet, using a mix of dark and milk chocolate can also help achieve that perfect harmony.

Topping Variations

One of the best aspects of this Chocolate Pretzel Bark is its versatility. While M&M's add color and a candy crunch, you can substitute or complement them with a range of creative toppings. Crushed nuts, like almonds or pecans, introduce a rich, nutty flavor that pairs well with the chocolate. Additionally, granola or crushed pretzel pieces can add extra texture and a delightful crunch. Mix and match until you find your favorite combo, and don't shy away from experimenting with seasonal toppings like mini candy corn for fall or pastel candies for spring celebrations.

Moreover, if you're looking to cater to dietary restrictions, consider using dairy-free chocolate chips for a vegan option. You might also explore using gluten-free pretzels to ensure that everyone at your gathering can enjoy this treat. The bark's customizable nature means that it's easy to adjust to fit any party's theme or dietary needs!

Storage and Serving Tips

After you've made your Chocolate Pretzel Bark, proper storage is essential to maintain its texture and freshness. Store the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep it firm and chocolaty. If you’ve used a lot of decorative toppings, try to layer parchment paper between the pieces to prevent them from sticking together. Properly stored, the bark can last up to 2 weeks, making it a perfect make-ahead snack for your Super Bowl party or other gatherings.

For serving, break the chilled bark into irregular pieces for a rustic look. Place it on a platters surrounded by more snack options like popcorn or chips to create an inviting snack table. If you want to make it even more festive, try drizzling some melted white chocolate over the bark just before serving for an added touch of elegance. This extra step enhances visual appeal and adds a new layer of flavor that will have your guests intrigued!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Pretzel Bark

2 cups pretzels
12 oz chocolate chips (milk or dark)
1 cup M&M's or other toppings of choice
Sprinkles (optional)

Gather these simple ingredients to create a fantastic treat!

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Melt the Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Combine Pretzels and Chocolate

Fold the pretzels into the melted chocolate until well coated.

Spread on Baking Sheet

Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it evenly.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle M&M's and any additional toppings over the chocolate mixture before it sets.

Chill Until Firm

Refrigerate for about 15 minutes or until the chocolate is solid.

Break and Serve

Once set, break into pieces and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious chocolate pretzel bark while watching the game!

Pro Tips

Feel free to play with different types of chocolate and toppings based on your preferences. White chocolate can add a lovely contrast when mixed with colorful toppings!

Common Troubleshooting

If your chocolate seizes up while melting, it may have come into contact with water. To fix this, you can add a small teaspoon of vegetable oil to the bowl, which can help smooth it back out. Always ensure your utensils and bowls are completely dry, especially when working with chocolate, to prevent this from occurring. When melting chocolate, be careful to stop when it's just beginning to melt and doesn't look fully liquid; a few stirs will help it reach a silky consistency without overcooking.

If your bark doesn't set correctly in the refrigerator, it may need a bit more chilling time. Make sure the chocolate has cooled completely at room temperature before popping it in the fridge, so it can solidify evenly without developing cloudiness or a dull texture. Additionally, ensure your refrigerator is set to a temperature that is cold enough; sometimes, a higher setting may slow down the solidification process.

Scaling Up or Down

This recipe is easily scalable, making it perfect for both small gatherings or large parties. If you're expecting a crowd, simply double or triple the ingredients accordingly. Just be mindful to use a larger baking sheet or multiple sheets, as spreading the chocolate pretzel mixture too thickly will make it hard to set properly. A thicker bark will also become more challenging to break into pieces later on, so maintain a thin layer for best results.

Conversely, if you're preparing a smaller batch, you can easily halve the recipe. Just be careful with measuring the chocolate and pretzels equivalently, as precision ensures an even coating. You may also want to adjust the oven time slightly if you're melting a smaller quantity of chocolate to prevent it from burning.

Presentation Ideas

Presentation can elevate your Chocolate Pretzel Bark to the next level. Consider breaking the bark into uneven, rustic pieces and arranging them on a colorful platter. Adding a few additional toppings like chocolate curls or fresh fruit around the edges can enhance the visual appeal. Using tiered serving dishes allows for a more dynamic display and encourages guests to take a piece and mix and match with other snacks on your table.

Another delightful presentation idea is to package individual pieces in clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. This not only makes it easy for guests to grab-and-go but also adds a personal touch, perfect for party favors. The vibrant colors of the toppings will shine through the clear bags, inviting everyone to indulge in this delicious treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! You can use milk, dark, or even white chocolate based on your taste preference.

→ How should I store the pretzel bark?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I add nuts to the bark?

Yes! Chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts can add a nice crunch and flavor.

→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

You can use gluten-free pretzels to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.