Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
Introduction
Craving a sweet and salty treat that comes together without heating up the kitchen? These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine crunchy pretzel crust, luscious caramel, and fluffy whipped cream for a dessert that’s easy, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer.
- Step 2: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread the caramel gently. Sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the caramel for the perfect balance of flavor.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks develop, creating a smooth and creamy topping.
- Step 4: Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing the surface for a neat finish.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.
- Step 6: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator, cut into squares, and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
Tips & Variations
- Press the pretzel crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together after chilling.
- Use a high-quality caramel sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
- Allow the bars to chill fully for a firm texture that’s easy to cut and serve.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped nuts on top before chilling.
Storage
Store the leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to enjoy again, serve them cold straight from the fridge for the best texture and flavor. These bars do not require reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pretzels for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pretzels work well and will keep this dessert suitable for those avoiding gluten. Just crush them finely for the crust.
Is it possible to make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! You can make homemade caramel by melting sugar and stirring in cream and butter. This adds a delightful depth of flavor and freshness to your bars.
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Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a salty pretzel crust with a luscious caramel layer and a creamy whipped topping for an irresistible sweet and salty treat that requires no oven time—perfect for satisfying sweet cravings quickly and easily.
Ingredients
Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Creamy Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust. In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
- Layer the Caramel. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it out smoothly. Sprinkle the sea salt on top of the caramel layer to enhance the flavor.
- Make the Creamy Topping. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form, creating a light and fluffy topping.
- Assemble the Bars. Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set, allowing all layers to meld perfectly.
- Slice and Serve. Remove from the refrigerator and cut into squares. Serve chilled for the best texture and enjoy!
Notes
- Press the pretzel crust firmly to ensure it holds together well after chilling.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
- Chill bars for the full recommended time to achieve a firm texture that’s easy to slice.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Try serving with vanilla ice cream or drizzling with chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: No bake dessert, salted caramel bars, pretzel bars, quick dessert, easy sweet treat, caramel dessert, creamy topping
