Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Bark

As soon as I tried my White Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Bark, I knew I would love it with milk chocolate, too! This bark is a no-bake treat that is rich, sweet, and salty all at once, with crunchy pretzels and peanuts adding the perfect texture. It comes together quickly and makes a festive treat for holiday gifting, a Christmas dessert charcuterie board, or just a simple sweet snack. This milk chocolate version has a deeper, creamier chocolate flavor while keeping the beloved peanut butter and pretzel crunch that makes the original so irresistible.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Milk Chocolate Chips: Milk chocolate provides a creamy, sweet base for the bark. You can also use dark chocolate for a slightly less sweet, richer flavor, or semi-sweet chocolate if you prefer a balance between sweet and deep chocolate notes.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds a nutty, smooth flavor and helps bind the chocolate and pretzels. Natural peanut butter can be used, though it may make the bark slightly softer.
• Pretzels: Crushed pretzels provide crunch and a touch of saltiness. Use any type of small pretzel pieces you like; sticks, twists, or mini pretzels all work.
• Peanuts: Dry-roasted salted peanuts add texture and flavor. You can swap for roasted almonds, cashews, or even mixed nuts for variation.
• Sea Salt: A pinch of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweet and salty contrast, but you can leave it off if preferred.

FAQs

What is a bark recipe?

Bark is a simple, no-bake treat made by melting chocolate, spreading it into a thin layer, and adding mix-ins like nuts, pretzels, or candy. Once it sets in the fridge, you break it into rustic pieces; no molds or special tools required. It’s easy to make, festive, and perfect for gifting or snacking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Bark can be made a few days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use salted or unsalted nuts?

Dry-roasted salted nuts are ideal for the classic sweet-and-salty flavor, but unsalted nuts work too; just sprinkle a little sea salt on top if you like.

Do I have to use milk chocolate?

No, you can swap in white, dark, or semi-sweet chocolate depending on your flavor preference.

Can I make the bark thinner or thicker?

Yes! Spread the mixture thinner on the baking sheet for crispier, bite-sized pieces, or make it slightly thicker for chunkier, more substantial bark. Either way, it will set beautifully in the refrigerator.

Serving Ideas

• Break into bite-sized pieces for holiday gift tins or snack bags.
• Serve alongside white chocolate or dark chocolate peanut butter bark for a festive cookie tray.
• Crumble over ice cream (check out my no-churn ice cream recipes!), yogurt, or chocolate pudding for added texture and flavor.

Tips for Success

Melt gently: Heat the chocolate and peanut butter slowly, either in short microwave intervals or over a double boiler, to prevent scorching.

Even layer: Spread the mixture evenly on the baking sheet so it sets uniformly and breaks into consistent pieces.

Add mix-ins carefully: Fold in the pretzels and peanuts gently to avoid breaking them too much.

Chill completely: Let the bark set fully in the refrigerator before breaking; it helps keep the chocolate crisp and the pieces clean.

Customize toppings: Add extra pretzels, nuts, or a pinch of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor.

How to Store Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Bark

Room Temperature: Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Keep it away from heat or direct sunlight to prevent the chocolate from softening.

Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep the bark in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This also helps maintain the chocolate’s crisp texture and the peanut butter’s creaminess.

Freezer: If you want to store the bark for longer, wrap pieces individually in parchment or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.