Disclosure: This Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark is sponsored by Nielsen-Massey. While I was compensated, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Build Your Bite!
Easy Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark: The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Treat
Get ready to discover your new favorite dessert! This homemade vegan chocolate sea salt pretzel bark is an absolute game-changer. It combines rich, dairy-free dark chocolate with the satisfying crunch of gluten-free pretzels and the delightful sparkle of sea salt flakes, all elevated by the exquisite flavor of premium vanilla extract. What makes this recipe truly special? It requires just 5 simple ingredients and comes together in a matter of minutes, proving that indulgent treats don’t have to be complicated.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or simply looking for a delicious, healthier dessert option, this pretzel bark is guaranteed to impress. It’s incredibly addicting, offering that perfect balance of sweet and salty that keeps you coming back for just one more bite. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences without compromising on taste or texture.
Why This Vegan Pretzel Bark is a Must-Try Dessert
After every meal, I often find myself craving something sweet, especially a bite of chocolate to truly satisfy that desire. This pretzel bark has become my ultimate go-to dessert for several reasons. Firstly, its incredible ease of preparation means I can whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes, without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Secondly, this bark is wonderfully freezer-friendly. You can store it in an airtight container for weeks, always having a decadent treat ready to grab. Although, I must admit, it rarely lasts that long in my house! The combination of salty and sweet flavors is perfectly balanced, making each piece an exquisite experience. The smooth, rich chocolate melts in your mouth, followed by the satisfying crunch of the pretzels and the delightful burst of sea salt. It’s truly a symphony of textures and tastes.
The Irresistible Allure of Sweet and Salty
There’s something inherently magical about the combination of sweet and salty flavors, and this vegan chocolate pretzel bark truly harnesses that power. The deep, slightly bitter notes of dark chocolate are perfectly complemented by the crisp, salty crunch of pretzels. It’s a flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds, hitting all the right notes for an unforgettable dessert experience. Each bite delivers a burst of rich chocolate followed by a savory counterpoint, creating a delightful contrast that is incredibly satisfying.
Since discovering the joy of flaked sea salt, I’ve made it a point to incorporate it into my desserts whenever possible, and it truly shines in this bark. The delicate flakes of sea salt not only add a beautiful visual appeal but also provide intense bursts of salty goodness that cut through the sweetness of the chocolate. For me, the best pieces are always the ones with the most generous sprinkle of salt!
Perfect for Any Occasion: From Valentine’s to Everyday Indulgence
While this recipe is fantastic for any time of year, my mind often drifts to chocolate around special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Even though my husband Robbie and I keep our Valentine’s celebrations simple, he always ensures I have some chocolate to enjoy. This year, I’ll be requesting another batch of this sea salt pretzel bark. Honestly, no store-bought chocolate treat can compare to the incredible flavor and homemade goodness of this bark. It’s truly a cut above the rest!
Beyond holidays, this vegan chocolate pretzel bark is an ideal dessert for a casual get-together, a sweet ending to a family dinner, or simply a well-deserved personal indulgence. Its striking appearance, with whole pretzels embedded and glistening sea salt flakes, also makes it a fantastic edible gift. Package it in a pretty box or cellophane bag, and you have a thoughtful, delicious present that everyone will adore. It’s proof that simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular.
The Secret Ingredient: Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract
A truly exceptional dessert often relies on high-quality ingredients, and for this vegan chocolate sea salt pretzel bark, the secret to its depth of flavor lies in Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract. Nielsen-Massey is renowned worldwide for its superior vanilla products, and the first time I incorporated their vanilla into a recipe, I immediately understood why. The difference it makes is truly palpable, transforming a good dessert into an extraordinary one.
What sets Nielsen-Massey apart is their meticulous cold extraction process. Unlike many other vanilla producers that use heat, Nielsen-Massey’s method carefully preserves all the delicate flavor compounds naturally present in the vanilla beans. This results in an extract with a remarkably richer, more nuanced flavor profile compared to other brands. Their Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract, specifically, offers a sweet, creamy, and velvety taste that enhances both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile staple in any kitchen.
Beyond the exceptional flavor, I deeply appreciate Nielsen-Massey’s commitment to quality and ethical practices. They are a family-owned company, which resonates with my values. Furthermore, all their products are all-natural, GMO-free, certified gluten-free, certified Kosher, and allergen-free. Knowing that I’m using such a pure and responsibly sourced ingredient adds an extra layer of enjoyment to every recipe I create. This dedication to excellence truly elevates the simple ingredients in this pretzel bark, adding an unparalleled richness to the chocolate base.
Crafting Your Bark: Step-by-Step Excellence
Making this vegan chocolate sea salt pretzel bark is an incredibly straightforward process, perfect for even the most novice bakers. The key is to handle the chocolate gently to ensure a smooth, luxurious base. You’ll start by melting your dairy-free dark chocolate chunks or chips with a touch of coconut oil in a medium saucepan over low heat. It’s crucial to stir constantly and keep the heat low to prevent the chocolate from seizing or burning. After just 3-5 minutes, you’ll have a beautifully smooth, glossy chocolate mixture.
Once the chocolate is perfectly melted, remove the pan from the heat. This is the moment to stir in the star ingredient: the Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract. Adding it off the heat helps preserve its delicate aromatics and ensures its full, rich flavor permeates the chocolate without evaporating. Next, fold in your roughly chopped pretzels. This step infuses every bite of the bark with that desirable crunchy texture, making it even more appealing. The slightly broken pretzel pieces integrate beautifully into the chocolate, creating a delightful surprise in every chunk.
Texture Perfection with Pretzels
The beauty of chocolate bark lies in its rustic, broken pieces and, in this case, the incredible textural contrast. The pretzels are absolutely essential for adding that satisfying snap and crunch that elevates this dessert beyond a simple piece of chocolate. We use a combination of chopped pretzels mixed into the chocolate base and whole pretzels artfully arranged on top. For those with dietary restrictions, I highly recommend using gluten-free pretzels, which perform just as beautifully as traditional ones.
The chopped pretzels ensure that every single bite has a delightful crunch, providing a counterpoint to the smooth, rich chocolate. This makes the bark much more interesting to eat and adds another layer to the overall flavor experience. The whole pretzels on top not only offer an additional, more substantial crunch but also contribute to the visual appeal, making your bark look professionally made and utterly irresistible. Don’t underestimate the power of these humble salty snacks to transform your chocolate bark!
Finishing Touches and Setting Your Bark
Once your vanilla-infused chocolate and pretzel mixture is ready, pour it into an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with wax paper. The wax paper is key for easy removal once the bark has set. Use a rubber spatula to gently spread the mixture evenly into all corners of the pan, ensuring a uniform thickness for consistent texture in every piece. This also creates a beautiful flat surface for your toppings.
Now comes the final flourish: generously sprinkle the flaked sea salt over the chocolate, paying attention to even distribution for that perfect sweet-salty balance in every bite. Then, artfully arrange about 15-20 whole gluten-free pretzels on top, pressing them slightly into the chocolate so they adhere. This not only adds more crunch but also makes the bark visually appealing. Finally, pop the entire dish into the freezer for at least an hour, or until it’s completely firm. Once set, you can easily break it into rustic pieces or chop it with a knife. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for a ready-to-enjoy treat!
Dietary-Friendly and Absolutely Delicious
One of the most appealing aspects of this pretzel bark recipe is its versatility and inclusivity. Made with just five core ingredients, it naturally caters to several dietary needs without feeling like a compromise. The use of dairy-free dark chocolate and coconut oil makes this dessert entirely vegan, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a rich, chocolatey treat. For those who follow a vegan lifestyle, finding truly indulgent and simple recipes like this can be a game-changer.
Furthermore, by simply opting for gluten-free pretzels, this recipe becomes a fantastic choice for anyone avoiding gluten. This means individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity don’t have to miss out on the joy of a crunchy, sweet-and-salty snack. The simplicity of the ingredients also means fewer potential allergens and a cleaner, more wholesome dessert. It’s a testament to how delicious and satisfying plant-based, gluten-free eating can be, proving that healthy choices can still be incredibly indulgent.
A Freezer-Friendly Indulgence: Always Ready When You Are
One of my favorite qualities about this vegan chocolate sea salt pretzel bark is how perfectly it fits into a busy lifestyle, especially if you love having sweet treats on hand. As a freezer-friendly dessert, it allows for convenient meal prepping (or, in this case, dessert prepping!). You can make a large batch, break it into individual portions, and store it in an airtight container in your freezer.
This means whenever that chocolate craving hits, or you need a quick pick-me-up, a delicious, perfectly chilled piece of bark is just moments away. There’s no need for elaborate baking on a whim, just a quick trip to the freezer. This bark maintains its incredible texture and flavor when stored cold, making it an ideal choice for a grab-and-go snack or a satisfying after-dinner treat. The slight chill even enhances the snap of the chocolate and the crunch of the pretzels, creating an even more delightful experience. If you haven’t tried making freezer sweets before, this is the perfect recipe to start with – it truly couldn’t be easier!
Discover More with Nielsen-Massey Vanillas
The quality of Nielsen-Massey’s vanilla truly makes a world of difference in this recipe, transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary. If you’ve loved the flavor in this bark, I highly encourage you to explore their other incredible products and discover more ways to elevate your cooking and baking. For additional recipe inspiration and to stay updated on their latest offerings, be sure to follow Nielsen-Massey on their social media channels:
Their pages are a treasure trove of delicious ideas and showcase the versatility of their premium extracts. You’ll find everything from decadent desserts to savory delights, all enhanced by the rich, complex flavors of Nielsen-Massey vanilla.
Share Your Delicious Creations!
I absolutely love seeing your culinary adventures and how you recreate my recipes in your own kitchens! If you decide to make this unbelievably easy and delicious Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark, please don’t hesitate to share your results. Your creations inspire me and the entire Build Your Bite community.
Remember to tag me on Instagram @buildyourbite and use the hashtag #buildyourbite. I can’t wait to see your beautiful bark and hear about your sweet and salty experiences!
This recipe is designed to be straightforward, using minimal ingredients for maximum flavor and impact. It’s perfect for a last-minute dessert or a thoughtful homemade gift. Give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!
Did you make this recipe? Be sure to leave a star rating below!
Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark Recipe
Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark
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Ingredients
- 10 oz dairy free dark chocolate chunks or chips
- 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt
- 1/2 cup gluten free pretzels, roughly chopped
- 15 – 20 gluten free pretzels, for topping
Instructions
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In a medium sized sauce pan, combine coconut oil and dairy-free dark chocolate chunks or chips. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth (this usually takes about 3 – 5 minutes). Be careful not to overheat.
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Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the chopped gluten-free pretzels and the Nielsen-Massey Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla Extract until well combined.
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Line an 8 x 8 inch (or similar size) baking dish with wax paper, ensuring there’s an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Pour the chocolate mixture into the lined dish.
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Use a rubber spatula to spread the chocolate mixture evenly into all the corners of the pan, creating a smooth, flat surface.
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Generously sprinkle the flaked sea salt over the entire surface of the chocolate. Then, artfully arrange 15-20 whole gluten-free pretzels on top, pressing them gently into the chocolate to secure them, as shown in the pictures.
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Place the baking dish in the freezer for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is completely firm and set.
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Once firm, lift the bark out of the pan using the wax paper overhang. Carefully peel off the wax paper. You can either chop the bark into small, irregular pieces using a sharp knife or break it into rustic chunks with your hands.
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Store the finished Vegan Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel Bark in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer for a convenient and delicious treat whenever a craving strikes!
Nutrition
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