Sweet & Salty Bliss: Easy Orange Dark Chocolate Pretzel Bark (Gluten-Free & Vegan!)

Discover the perfect harmony of flavors with this irresistible orange chocolate pretzel bark, featuring Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate and crispy gluten-free pretzels. It’s the ultimate salty-sweet treat for any occasion!

There are some simple pleasures in life that, once rediscovered, become absolute staples. For me, thanks to my friend M, that pleasure has been pretzels. While M savors his pretzels extra salty, perhaps dipped in a savory sauce, my preference leans towards a delightful touch of sweetness. A few weeks ago, almost by accident, I found myself finishing a bag of pretzels alongside a piece of rich dark chocolate. The unexpected pairing of bittersweet chocolate with the satisfying crunch and saltiness of the pretzel was, to put it mildly, ridiculously good. It was so good, in fact, that I immediately reached for another, and then another.

I know I’m certainly not the first to stumble upon the magic of salty and sweet, or even chocolate and pretzels – chocolate-covered pretzels have been a beloved classic for ages! However, I hope you’ll indulge me as I share my own spin on this timeless combination. I decided to take this simple pairing a step further, infusing chocolate and pretzels into an easy, two-ingredient bark, but with a vibrant, citrusy orange twist. This Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark offers a symphony of salty, sweet, and tangy flavors, making it the absolute perfection for a light, refreshing spring or summer treat!

The Simple Ingredients for Your Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark

One of the most appealing aspects of this Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark recipe is its incredible simplicity. You truly only need two main ingredients to create this delicious, gourmet-tasting treat. This minimalist approach not only makes the bark incredibly quick to prepare but also highlights the quality of each component, allowing their individual flavors to shine through beautifully.

• Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate Bars: The star of this recipe is definitely the chocolate. We specifically use Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate bars, which come with a delightful hint of organic orange. This particular chocolate isn’t just about incredible taste; it also supports a fantastic cause (more on that later!). Its 60% dark chocolate content provides a rich, bittersweet base that perfectly complements the bright citrus notes and the salty pretzels.
• Gluten-Free Pretzels: For the crunchy element, we opt for gluten-free pretzels. This ensures that our delicious bark is accessible to those with dietary restrictions without compromising on that essential salty crunch. If you’re not avoiding gluten, feel free to use your favorite regular pretzels. The key is to choose pretzels that have a good snap and aren’t too heavily salted, as the chocolate will add plenty of flavor. You’ll need both crushed pretzels to mix into the chocolate and whole pretzels for a decorative and textural topping.

That’s truly all you need! With these two thoughtfully selected ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a homemade confection that tastes far more complex than its simple ingredient list suggests. The beauty of this recipe lies in how these few components come together to create a harmonious and utterly addictive snack.

Crafting Your Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making this Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark is a straightforward and enjoyable process that even novice bakers can master. The key is to work with patience, especially when melting the chocolate, to ensure a smooth, luxurious base for your bark. Let’s walk through each step to create this perfect salty-sweet treat.

First, set up your workspace efficiently.

Line a small rectangular baking dish with parchment paper and set it aside. This step is crucial as it prevents the chocolate from sticking and makes for incredibly easy removal and cleanup. I always make sure to push the parchment paper up along the sides of the dish, creating a neat liner that ensures your dish stays perfectly clean. This also helps in achieving clean, crisp edges for your bark.

Next, prepare your chocolate. Break the Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate Bars into smaller chunks with your hands. This helps the chocolate melt more evenly and quickly. In a medium-sized saucepan, gently heat these chocolate chunks over very low heat. It’s essential to stir frequently to prevent the chocolate from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and beautifully smooth, resembling a glossy liquid pool. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler method for a more controlled melt, placing a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water, ensuring the bowl doesn’t touch the water.

Combining Melted Chocolate and Pretzels

Once your chocolate is perfectly melted and shimmering, remove the pan from the heat. This prevents further cooking and ensures the chocolate retains its smooth texture. Immediately stir in your chopped pretzels. The goal here is to get every piece of pretzel thoroughly coated in the luxurious dark chocolate. Stir gently but continuously until you see no dry spots; each crunchy piece should be glistening with chocolate. This initial coating ensures a uniform texture throughout the bark and guarantees that delightful salty-sweet experience in every bite.

Now, carefully pour this chocolate-pretzel mixture into your parchment-lined baking pan. Using the back of a spoon or a spatula, spread the mixture evenly across the entire surface. It’s important to push the chocolate all the way to the edges and into the corners of the pan. This creates a beautifully uniform rectangular shape, which makes for easier portioning later. Keep in mind that the chopped pretzels might have a tendency to clump together, so take a moment to gently distribute them evenly with your spoon as you spread. An even distribution ensures that every piece of bark has a balanced ratio of chocolate to pretzel crunch.

Adding the Finishing Touches: Whole Pretzel Topping

This is where you can truly get creative and make your bark visually stunning! Once the chocolate and crushed pretzels are spread evenly, it’s time to arrange the whole pretzels on top in a symmetric pattern. While I prefer placing mine in neat, even rows for an organized look, feel free to design any pattern that pleases your eye. Perhaps a checkerboard, a diagonal arrangement, or even a more free-form, scattered approach. The recipe suggests using approximately 1 cup of whole pretzels, but don’t hesitate to use more or less to achieve your desired aesthetic and crunch level. This layer not only adds extra texture but also provides a beautiful contrast to the smooth chocolate base. This decorative step transforms a simple snack into an elegant, homemade treat perfect for gifting or serving at gatherings.

The Waiting Game: Chilling Your Chocolate Bark

After the pretzels are perfectly arranged, carefully transfer the pan to the freezer. Allow the chocolate to freeze for at least one hour, or until it is completely hardened and solid. This chilling process is essential for achieving that characteristic crisp “bark” texture. If your freezer is as packed as mine often is, don’t worry! You can also place the pan in the refrigerator to cool. Just be aware that it will take a bit longer to harden completely. In the freezer, your chocolate bark should be ready in about 10-15 minutes, while in the refrigerator, it will typically take 20-30 minutes. The key is to ensure it’s firm to the touch before attempting to break it.

Effortless Breaking: Tips for Perfect Pretzel Bark Pieces

Once your orange chocolate pretzel bark is thoroughly cooled and hardened, the most satisfying part begins: breaking it into delectable pieces! There are a couple of ways to approach this, depending on your preferred aesthetic.

You can simply chop the pretzel bark into small pieces using a sharp knife. This method is ideal if you prefer neat, uniform squares or rectangles, which lend themselves well to elegant presentation. I personally love the clean lines and symmetrical appeal of using a knife to create small, adorable squares. They’re just so cute and perfectly bite-sized! Alternatively, for a more rustic and organic look, you can break the bark into smaller, irregular chunks with your hands. This method yields a charming, homemade feel, where no two pieces are exactly alike. Whichever method you choose, you’ll be left with a batch of irresistible salty-sweet treats ready to be devoured.

Storing Your Delicious Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark

This orange chocolate pretzel bark is so incredibly tasty, you might find it hard to store any leftovers! However, if you manage to have some remaining, proper storage will ensure it stays fresh and delicious for future enjoyment.

Enjoy the bark immediately as a delightful sweet and salty treat with an invigorating citrus flair. It’s truly a snack you won’t be able to get enough of. To store any leftover pretzel bark, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. The cool temperature helps maintain the chocolate’s firm texture and prevents it from melting, especially in warmer climates. For longer-term storage, you can also keep the bark in the freezer. When stored in an airtight freezer-safe container, it can last for several weeks. Simply pull out a piece whenever a craving strikes! Just allow it to temper slightly at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying for the best texture.

Spotlight on Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate Bars

This recipe owes its rich chocolatey base and delightful orange zest to the exceptional NEW Endangered Species Orange + Dark Chocolate Bars. These aren’t just any chocolate bars; they’re a conscious choice that elevates this simple snack into something truly special. The 60% dark chocolate offers a bold, yet mildly sweet flavor profile that is beautifully balanced by a subtle hint of organic orange. This creates an amazingly bright and refreshing citrus flavor that truly sings when combined with the salty pretzels.

Beyond the exquisite taste, I am proud to support Endangered Species Chocolate because they are deeply committed to giving back to our planet and its vital ecosystems. A significant portion of their annual net profits is donated to wildlife conservation organizations, making every purchase a contribution to a greater cause. Specifically, these Orange + Dark Chocolate bars help raise awareness and provide support for the plight of the Coral Reef, a critical underwater ecosystem facing numerous threats. So, when you indulge in this vegan and gluten-free snack-y dessert, you’re not just enjoying a treat; you’re also playing a small part in protecting our natural world. It’s a truly guilt-free pleasure!

Creative Ways to Serve Your Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark

This Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark is incredibly versatile and makes for a fun, satisfying sweet and savory dessert or snack to share. Its unique combination of flavors and textures means it can be enjoyed in various ways, fitting seamlessly into many occasions.

Because it’s thoughtfully crafted to be gluten-free, vegan, and refined-sugar-free (depending on your pretzel choice and specific dark chocolate brand, though Endangered Species is a great option!), it truly offers a delicious option for almost everyone, catering to a range of dietary preferences. If you’re looking to intensify that beloved salty-sweet contrast, consider sprinkling a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on top of the bark just before it sets. This simple addition elevates the flavors even further, adding a gourmet touch.

I envision this bark as a wonderfully cute and low-maintenance dessert for entertaining throughout the spring and summer months. Imagine it laid out on a platter at a casual backyard barbecue, a bright brunch gathering, or even an elegant evening soiree. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, a glass of cold plant-based milk, or even a light fruit-infused sparkling water. As we approach Earth Day, making this sweet treat is also a wonderful way to indirectly support the plight of the Coral Reef, thanks to Endangered Species Chocolate’s mission. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Enjoy! The simple joy of a homemade treat awaits.

More Delectable Chocolate Bark Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of this Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark, you’re in for a treat! Chocolate bark is a fantastic canvas for creativity, allowing for endless flavor combinations and textures. It’s perfect for quick desserts, thoughtful gifts, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Here’s another wonderful chocolate bark recipe from my collection that you might enjoy:

• Maple Pistachio Goji Berry Chocolate Bark

This recipe offers a different flavor profile, combining the nutty crunch of pistachios with the chewy sweetness of goji berries, all tied together with a hint of maple. It’s another simple, yet sophisticated bark that showcases how versatile and rewarding homemade chocolate treats can be. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or spices to create your own unique bark creations!

I Want to Hear From You! Your Feedback Matters

Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I absolutely love seeing your creations! If you decide to make this delightful Orange Chocolate Pretzel Bark recipe, please don’t keep it a secret. I would be thrilled to know how it turned out for you.

Be sure to leave me a comment below, along with a rating and review. Your valuable feedback is incredibly helpful as it allows me to understand what you enjoy and helps me to create even more delicious recipes (“yums”) for you in the future.

You can also give me a shout-out on Instagram! Snap a photo of your beautiful bark and use the hashtag #floraandvino to share your creations with our community. I love to feature your posts and see your unique touches.

For more recipe inspiration and to save ideas for later, check out my Pinterest page. You’ll find a wealth of recipes just like this one, ready to be pinned to your boards.

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XO Lauren

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This post is brought to you by Endangered Species Chocolate, but all words and eats are my own. Thanks for supporting the sponsors that keep me hungry!