Description
These irresistible Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a rich caramel layer and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt, these bars offer a delightful mix of sweet and salty flavors that are sure to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed into coarse crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
Caramel Layer
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (about 14 oz)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar
Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark/white chocolate)
- Sea salt, optional, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Crush the pretzels into coarse crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Mix the crushed pretzels with the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased baking dish to form the crust.
- Make the caramel layer: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, unsalted butter, and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to bubble gently. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Immediately pour the warm caramel over the pretzel crust, spreading it evenly. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to set.
- Add the chocolate topping: Melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it out with a spatula for a smooth finish.
- Refrigerate to set: Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least another 30 minutes, or until the chocolate topping is firm and set.
- Serve: Once set, cut into bars of desired size. Optionally, sprinkle a light pinch of sea salt on top before serving to enhance the salted caramel flavor. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Notes
- You can use dark or white chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
- Crushing pretzels finely results in a firmer crust; coarse crumbs give a crunchier texture.
- Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning and to achieve a smooth texture.
- Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top accentuates the sweet and salty contrast.
- Allow the bars to fully set in the refrigerator before cutting to avoid messy slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Salted Caramel, Pretzel Bars, Sweet and Salty Dessert, No Bake Bars, Chocolate Topping, Easy Dessert
