Get ready to transform your kitchen into a New Orleans-style celebration with this jaw-dropping Easy King Cake Pretzel Bark! Imagine a crispy, sweet, and utterly addictive treat that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras in every single bite. This isn't just a dessert - it's an edible party that combines the crunch of pretzels, the richness of caramel, and the festive colors of Louisiana's most famous celebration. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser that'll have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups pretzel crisps
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup purple, green, and gold sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage of the surface.
- Arrange the pretzel crisps in a single, even layer across the entire prepared baking sheet, making sure they are touching but not overlapping.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter and brown sugar. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to bubble and becomes smooth.
- Continue cooking the butter and sugar mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously, until it reaches a rich caramel-like consistency and starts to slightly thicken.
- Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the arranged pretzel crisps, using a spatula to ensure complete and uniform coverage.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and has a deep golden color.
- Remove from the oven and let the bark cool completely at room temperature for approximately 15-20 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix powdered sugar and vanilla extract to create a simple glaze. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bark.
- Immediately sprinkle the purple, green, and gold sprinkles over the glaze, creating a festive King Cake-inspired design.
- Allow the bark to set for an additional 10 minutes until the glaze hardens.
- Break or cut the bark into irregular pieces and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Watch your caramel mixture closely when cooking. You want it bubbling and golden, but not burned.
- Sprinkle Strategy: For the most authentic Mardi Gras look, use traditional purple, green, and gold sprinkles. Spread them evenly for a professional finish.
- Cooling Matters: Let the bark cool completely before breaking or cutting to ensure a crisp texture.
- Storage Hack: Keep your bark in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crunch for up to 5 days.
- Make it Your Own: Experiment with different sprinkle colors or add a pinch of cinnamon to the caramel for extra King Cake authenticity.
- Precision Counts: Use parchment paper and ensure even pretzel placement for consistent baking.Pro tip: This recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or when you want to bring a taste of New Orleans to your home!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
