Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the first bite of a sweet and salty treat, and these Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the ultimate indulgence for any craving. The delightful crunch of pretzels combined with smooth, rich salted caramel makes for an irresistible snack you can prepare in no time. Plus, they require no baking, making them perfect for easy dessert fixes.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Pretzels (crushed)
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted)
• 1 cup Salted Caramel Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup Chocolate (optional, melted)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels with the melted unsalted butter until the pretzels are evenly coated.
3. Step 3: Press the pretzel and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
4. Step 4: Drizzle the salted caramel sauce evenly over the pressed pretzel layer to cover the surface.
5. Step 5: If using, melt the chocolate and drizzle it gently over the caramel layer to add extra richness and visual appeal.
6. Step 6: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 1 hour, or until they are set firmly and easy to cut.

Tips & Variations

• For a crunchier base, use thicker pretzels and crush them coarsely.
• Substitute salted caramel with dulce de leche for a milder sweetness.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the pretzel base for extra texture.
• Use dark or white chocolate instead of milk chocolate depending on your preference.
• Ensure the butter is fully melted and warm when mixing to help bind the pretzels well.

Storage

Store the pretzel bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy, remove from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften slightly before serving. These bars can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw in the fridge overnight before eating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without the chocolate topping?

Yes, the chocolate is optional and the bars are delicious with just the pretzel base and salted caramel layer. It adds a lovely touch but is not necessary.

What type of pretzels works best for this recipe?

Regular salted pretzel twists or sticks work well. Crushing them rather than pulverizing helps maintain a nice crunchy texture in the bars.

Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 107 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 9 bars (3×3 grid in 8×8-inch pan) 1x

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Description

These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars offer the perfect sweet and salty indulgence, featuring a crunchy pretzel base coated in butter, topped with luscious salted caramel sauce and an optional drizzle of melted chocolate. Ready in just over an hour without any need for baking, they are an easy, crowd-pleasing treat great for satisfying dessert cravings anytime.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base

• 2 cups pretzels, crushed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Topping

• 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup chocolate, melted (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Dish: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars once set.
2. Make the Bases: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the crushed pretzels with the melted unsalted butter until the pretzel pieces are evenly coated, which helps bind the base together.
3. Form the Base Layer: Press the pretzel and butter mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined baking dish, creating an even and compact layer.
4. Add Caramel: Generously drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the pressed pretzel base, spreading gently if needed to cover most of the surface.
5. Chocolate Drizzle (Optional): If using, melt the chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel layer artistically for an extra touch of indulgence.
6. Set the Bars: Place the assembled dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour, allowing the layers to firm up completely before cutting and serving.

Notes

• Use crushed pretzels of any variety you prefer; mini pretzels work well when crushed finely.
• For a homemade caramel sauce, gently simmer sugar with butter and cream until golden and smooth.
• Chocolate drizzle is optional but adds a wonderful flavor contrast and visual appeal.
• Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.
• Cut bars into small squares for easier portioning and serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: no-bake dessert, salted caramel bars, pretzel bars, sweet and salty snacks, easy dessert