Description
Sweet and salty Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars blend crunchy pretzels with rich caramel and chocolate for an irresistible no-bake dessert. Indulgent layers promise a quick, delightful treat that will satisfy your craving for a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups (480 ml) crushed pretzels
- 1 cup (240 ml) caramel bits or soft caramels (approx. 30–35 pieces), unwrapped
- 1 cup (240 ml) milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) peanut butter
Liquid Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) heavy cream
Garnish:
- Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a parchment-lined 8×8-inch baking pan, allowing excess paper to extend beyond the edges for effortless bar removal.
- Create a uniform base by distributing crushed pretzels across the entire pan bottom, ensuring complete coverage.
- Combine caramel bits with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short 20-second bursts, stirring between intervals until the mixture transforms into a silky, glossy liquid. Gently cascade the molten caramel over the pretzel foundation, using a spatula to achieve a smooth, even layer. Allow the caramel to stabilize and slightly cool for 3-4 minutes.
- In a separate microwave-safe container, merge chocolate chips and peanut butter. Apply the same heating technique: 20-second intervals with intermittent stirring until the mixture achieves a completely uniform consistency. Carefully pour the chocolate-peanut butter blend atop the caramel layer, meticulously spreading to create a flawless surface.
- Transfer the pan to the refrigerator, allowing the bars to solidify and set for approximately 1-2 hours. The bars should become firm and completely chilled.
- Once fully set, extract the bars from the pan using the parchment paper handles. Optional: Sprinkle a delicate layer of sea salt across the surface. Slice into precise squares or rectangular bars for serving.
Notes
- Boost Pretzel Crunch Crush pretzels finely for a more compact base, ensuring even coverage and better texture.
- Prevent Caramel Burning Stir caramel constantly and use low heat to avoid scorching or separating the mixture.
- Customize Dietary Needs Swap regular chocolate with dairy-free chips and use almond butter for gluten-free and vegan alternatives.
- Enhance Flavor Profile Sprinkle crushed pretzels or chopped nuts on top for extra crunch and visual appeal before chilling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 226 kcal
- Sugar: 17 g
- Sodium: 130 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg