5-Ingredient Chocolate Pretzel Bites Recipe

Cook Time: 30 minutes

This easy-to-make dessert combines the perfect balance of sweet coconut, salty pretzels, roasted peanuts, and rich chocolate chips, all bound together by creamy sweetened condensed milk. A delicious treat the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
• 1/4 cup crushed pretzels
• 1/4 cup chopped roasted peanuts
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325F (165C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly spray the paper with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sweetened coconut flakes, crushed pretzels, chopped peanuts, chocolate chips, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir everything together until well-mixed.
3. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly to cover the base of the pan.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bars are set.
5. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan. After cooling, cut the mixture into bars and serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount per serving
Calories	195
Total Fat	10g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	7mg
Sodium	94mg
Total Carbohydrate	25g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	21g
Protein	4g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	62mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	181mg

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Chocolate Pretzel Bites

Chocolate pretzel bites, a sweet-and-salty treat beloved in modern American cuisine, trace their origins to the broader trend of combining chocolate with salty snacks in the late 20th century. While pretzels themselves date back to medieval Europe, likely invented by monks as a symbolic treat, the fusion with chocolate became popular in the United States during the 1980s and 1990s. Snack manufacturers and home bakers alike began experimenting with easy-to-make, bite-sized desserts that balanced the sweetness of chocolate with the crunch and saltiness of pretzels, eventually leading to recipes like this 5-ingredient chocolate pretzel bites.

Regional Variations

Though widely enjoyed across the United States, certain regional variations exist. In the Midwest, peanuts or caramel are often added for extra richness, reflecting the regions affinity for nut-based snacks. Coastal regions may incorporate coconut flakes, as in this recipe, inspired by tropical influences and the accessibility of coconut in coastal markets. Some southern variations include a drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt on top, enhancing both visual appeal and flavor complexity. Each variation highlights local tastes and ingredient availability while maintaining the classic sweet-and-salty contrast.

Differences from Similar Desserts

Chocolate pretzel bites differ from other chocolate-based desserts, such as chocolate bark or traditional chocolate-covered pretzels, in both preparation and texture. Unlike chocolate-covered pretzels, which are fully coated in chocolate, these bites combine ingredients into a cohesive bar, providing a mix of textures in every bite. Compared to chocolate bark, which is flat and often decorative, pretzel bites are thicker, chewier, and easier to portion for individual servings. This makes them ideal for casual snacking or gifting, rather than formal presentation.

Where They Are Served

These treats are versatile and commonly served in informal settings. They are popular at holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family parties, often presented on dessert platters alongside cookies and brownies. Coffee shops and small bakeries may feature them as grab-and-go snacks, while home bakers enjoy them as an easy-to-make treat for childrens lunchboxes or afternoon tea. Their simple recipe and appealing flavor make them a universal favorite in both casual and festive contexts.

Interesting Facts

Chocolate pretzel bites combine two classic flavor profiles: sweet and salty, which stimulates taste buds in a way that pure sweetness cannot. Studies show that this combination increases pleasure in eating and often leads to repeat servings. The use of only five ingredients in this recipe highlights a trend toward simplicity in home baking, emphasizing flavor over complexity. Additionally, the inclusion of coconut adds an unexpected tropical note, differentiating it from more traditional nut-and-chocolate confections. Despite their simplicity, these bites showcase the creativity and adaptability of modern snack foods, appealing to both children and adults alike.

FAQ about 5-Ingredient Chocolate Pretzel Bites Recipe