Salted Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
Introduction
Salted Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars combine sweet, salty, and crunchy textures into one irresistible treat. These bars are perfect for a quick dessert or a delightful snack that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- Pretzels (about 2 cups, crushed)
- Chocolate (1 cup, semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips)
- Caramel (1 cup, soft caramel candies or caramel sauce)
- Butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
- Salt (a pinch, preferably flaky sea salt)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels with melted butter and mix until the pretzels are evenly coated.
- Step 2: Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined or greased baking pan to form an even crust.
- Step 3: Melt the caramel gently in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth, then spread it evenly over the pretzel crust.
- Step 4: Melt the chocolate chips until smooth and pour over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors.
- Step 6: Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours, or until the layers are firm.
- Step 7: Once set, slice into bars and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use soft pretzels for a chewier texture or pretzel sticks for a more rustic look.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the caramel layer before chilling.
- Substitute caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a richer taste.
- Try dark chocolate for a less sweet but more intense flavor.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes for the best texture. These bars can also be frozen for up to one month; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works well and can save time. Just make sure it’s thick enough to set into a firm layer.
What type of pretzels work best for these bars?
Crumpled regular salted pretzels give the best balance of crunch and saltiness. Soft pretzels can be used but may change the texture.
PrintSalted Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
These Salted Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel base with a rich caramel layer and a smooth chocolate topping, all finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect sweet and salty treat. This easy no-bake recipe is perfect for a quick dessert or a delightful snack for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Pretzel Base
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Finishing Touch
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until the pretzel crumbs are fully coated with butter. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a lined 8×8-inch baking pan to form a firm base.
- Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel sauce over the pretzel base, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 minutes until the caramel layer is set.
- Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Apply Chocolate Layer: Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it gently with a spatula. Sprinkle the flaky sea salt evenly on top of the chocolate layer for that perfect sweet-salty flavor balance.
- Chill to Set: Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate layer is firm.
- Slice and Serve: Once the bars are fully set, remove them from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper. Slice into squares or bars and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For homemade caramel, you can use a simple recipe with sugar, butter, and cream to replace store-bought caramel sauce.
- Use flaky sea salt or kosher salt for the best texture and flavor on top.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Allow bars to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing and better flavor.
Keywords: salted chocolate caramel bars, pretzel bars, no-bake dessert, sweet and salty bars, easy dessert recipe
