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Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars: The Ultimate No-Bake Sweet & Salty Treat Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 116 reviews

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the perfect no-bake treat combining the irresistible crunch of salted pretzels with rich, buttery caramel and two layers of chocolate. This sweet and salty dessert is easy to make, featuring a crunchy pretzel base, a smooth homemade caramel layer, and a decadent dark and milk chocolate topping finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Ideal for parties, snacks, or whenever you crave a delightful sweet and salty combo!

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • 2 1/2 cups Salted Pretzels, crushed into bits (250g)
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted (115g)
  • 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (25g)

Caramel Layer

  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter (225g)
  • 1 cup Light Brown Sugar, packed (200g)
  • 14 oz Sweetened Condensed Milk (397g)
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (5ml)

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups Dark Chocolate Chips (at least 60% cacao) (255g)
  • 1/4 cup Milk Chocolate Chips (45g)
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil, divided (15ml)

Topping

  • 1 tablespoon Coarse Flaky Sea Salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: Crush the salted pretzels into small bits. In a bowl, combine the crushed pretzels with melted unsalted butter and brown sugar until evenly mixed.
  2. Press and Chill: Firmly press the pretzel mixture into a lined 9×9 inch pan to form an even base layer. Place the pan in the freezer for 15 minutes to set.
  3. Make the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter with brown sugar. Once melted, add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Whisk continuously for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a rich golden color.
  4. Set Caramel Layer: Pour the hot caramel evenly over the chilled pretzel base. Smooth the top and refrigerate the pan for 2 hours to allow the caramel to set properly.
  5. Prepare Chocolate Topping: Gently melt the dark chocolate chips with half of the coconut oil until smooth. Spread this dark chocolate layer evenly over the set caramel layer.
  6. Drizzle Milk Chocolate and Salt: Melt the milk chocolate chips with the remaining coconut oil until smooth. Drizzle the milk chocolate diagonally over the dark chocolate layer. While still wet, sprinkle coarse flaky sea salt evenly on top.
  7. Final Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the bars briefly to set the chocolate topping, then cut into 16 servings and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Notes

  • Ensure the pretzel base is firmly pressed to avoid crumbling when serving.
  • Continuous whisking during caramel cooking prevents burning and ensures smooth texture.
  • The use of two types of chocolate adds depth of flavor; dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the caramel’s sweetness while milk chocolate adds a creamy touch.
  • Flaky sea salt enhances the contrast between sweet and salty, use generously or to taste.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Keywords: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars, No-Bake Dessert, Sweet and Salty Treat, Pretzel Caramel Bars, Easy Dessert, Chocolate Caramel Bars

Find it online: https://foodbylina.com/salted-caramel-pretzel-bars-the-ultimate-no-bake-sweet-and-salty-treat-recipe/