With four kids underfoot, I love quick, simple treats that are special yet don’t take hours in the kitchen. This Strawberry Pretzel Bark is one of my go-to recipes because it comes together in minutes, uses allergy-friendly ingredients, and tastes like something from a bakery. I made it dairy-free and kid-friendly, so it is perfect for parents who want a sweet snack without worrying about allergens. You can even make it as a simple Valentine’s Day treat if you want something festive.
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How to Make Dairy-Free Chocolate Bark at Home
This recipe balances sweet chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and tart freeze-dried strawberries. Using a sweetened chocolate bar means the bark sets firm at room temperature, so it does not melt all over your hands. I like to use Enjoy Life chocolate bars but lately they have been out of stock everywhere, so if you can’t find it, their chocolate chips are a great substitute.
A few steps are non-negotiable to get the best results: melt the chocolate gently to avoid seizing and spread it evenly to about a quarter-inch thick. These techniques ensure your bark has a clean snap and holds up at room temperature.
Ingredients for Dark Chocolate Bark with Strawberries and Pretzels
- 8 oz dairy-free sweetened chocolate bar (Enjoy Life works best; chocolate chips are fine if bars are unavailable)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 cup pretzels, crushed into bite-size pieces (I love the Glutino ones)
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries, lightly crushed or powdered
- Zest of 1 orange (optional)
- Flaky sea salt, optional
Note: I did not always add the orange zest myself, but it adds a subtle brightness if you want it.
Dark Chocolate Bark Recipe
Prep Your Pan
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. This prevents sticking and makes it easier to break the bark into shards later.
Melt the Chocolate
If using a chocolate bar, break it into chunks. Melt it in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short microwave bursts, stirring frequently. Add the coconut oil. The chocolate should be smooth and glossy. Avoid overheating, or it can seize.
Spread Chocolate Evenly
Pour the melted chocolate onto your prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about a quarter-inch thickness using a spatula. This ensures each piece has a consistent snap and sets properly.
Add Gluten-Free Pretzels and Freeze-Dried Strawberries
While the chocolate is still soft, scatter the pretzels and freeze-dried strawberries evenly over the surface. You can sprinkle orange zest and a pinch of sea salt if you like. Press the toppings lightly so they adhere.
Tips for Making Dairy-Free Dark Chocolate Bark
- Melt chocolate gently; overheated chocolate can seize. Patience is key here.
- Spread evenly to a quarter-inch thickness to ensure it sets correctly.
- Store at a cooler temperature to prevent melting. I like to keep mine in the fridge and eat it cold.
FAQ About Dairy-Free Chocolate Bark with Pretzels
Can I use chocolate chips instead of a chocolate bar?
Yes. Enjoy Life chocolate chips work perfectly if bars are unavailable.
Can I use a different kind of oil?
No. Coconut oil is the best option if you choose to use oil at all. It helps give the chocolate a glossy finish, and other oils may affect the texture or cause the bark not to set properly.
How should I store the bark?
Keep it in an airtight container at a cooler temperature. Warm rooms can cause it to melt.
Can I use other types of pretzels?
Yes, but allergen-free pretzels like Glutino work best for families with dietary restrictions.
You might also like my Cauliflower Chocolate Mousse for a creamy, allergy-friendly dessert or my Sweet Potato Brownies (Nut-Free) if you want another easy, wholesome treat that kids love.
Strawberry Pretzel Bark (Dairy-Free)
Ingredients
- 8 oz dairy-free sweetened chocolate bar Enjoy Life works best; chocolate chunks are fine if bars are unavailable
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 cup pretzels crushed into bite-size pieces
- ½ cup freeze-dried strawberries lightly crushed or powdered
- Zest of 1 orange optional
- Flaky sea salt optional
Instructions
- Prep your pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Melt chocolate: Chop the chocolate finely. Melt it in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in short microwave bursts, stirring frequently. Add the coconut oil. The chocolate should be smooth and glossy. Avoid overheating, or it can seize.
- Spread chocolate evenly: Pour the melted chocolate onto your prepared baking sheet. Spread it evenly to about a quarter-inch thickness using a spatula.
- Add toppings while chocolate is soft: Scatter the crushed pretzels and freeze-dried strawberries evenly over the surface. Optional: sprinkle orange zest and a pinch of sea salt. Press toppings lightly to adhere.
- Set the bark: Let the bark set at room temperature, or chill briefly if your kitchen is warm. Store in a cooler place to prevent melting.
- Break and serve: Once set, break into rustic shards or use cookie cutters for festive shapes.
Video
Notes
- Using a sweetened chocolate bar helps the bark set firm at room temperature.
- Allergens: This recipe is dairy-free. Using allergen-free pretzels like Glutino makes it safe for sensitive diets.
- Tips: Melt chocolate gently to avoid seizing. Spread to a quarter-inch thickness for a clean snap. Store in a cooler place.
- Valentine’s Day: Press cookie cutters lightly into the bark for a festive touch or sprinkle extra freeze-dried strawberry powder for a bright pink pop.
Nutrition
Hi, I’m Ashley — mama, maker, and lover of all things from-scratch. Around here, you’ll usually find me barefoot in the kitchen, covered in flour or beeswax, with kids underfoot and something simmering on the stove. I believe in slow living, simple joys, and the kind of home that smells like cinnamon rolls and sunshine. Find out more about me here.
