Introduction
Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars! These delightful treats combine the crunchy, salty goodness of pretzels with a rich, creamy layer of caramel and silky chocolate. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are guaranteed to be a hit. With no baking required, they come together quickly and easily, making them an ideal dessert for even the busiest of home cooks. Let’s dive into this sweet and salty sensation that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 2 cups pretzel sticks
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pretzel sticks and graham cracker crumbs. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well mixed. Press this crunchy mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even layer.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for 5 minutes, stirring continuously until it thickens to a smooth, luscious caramel.
- Pour the warm caramel mixture over the pretzel base, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is filled with flavor. Allow the caramel to cool for about 10 minutes.
- While the caramel is still warm and inviting, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the top. Let them sit for a few minutes until they soften, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
- For the finishing touch, sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt over the chocolate layer to amplify the sweet and salty flavors.
- Refrigerate the bars for a minimum of 2 hours or until they are set and firm to the touch. Once they’re perfectly chilled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and salty in every bite!
Notes or Tips
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a drizzle of melted white chocolate on top after adding the semi-sweet chocolate. You can also customize this recipe by mixing in chopped nuts or dried fruit into the pretzel base for added texture. Just be mindful of the balance between sweet and salty to keep that signature flavor intact!
Cooking Techniques
When making the caramel, be sure to stir continuously to prevent it from burning. The gentle boil is crucial to achieving the right thickness, so keep an eye on it! Also, pressing the pretzel mixture firmly into the baking dish will help the bars hold their shape once they are chilled.
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are ideal for making a day in advance. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How should I store the leftover bars?
Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Whether you’re hosting a party or just need a sweet escape, these No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are sure to impress. With their perfect balance of crunchy, salty, and sweet flavors, they offer a delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up this irresistible dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!