Introduction
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dessert that combines both salty and sweet flavors, and these No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars do just that! With their crunchy pretzel base, smooth caramel layer, and silky chocolate topping, these bars are a delightful indulgence that everyone will love. The best part? You don’t even need to turn on the oven!
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: 0 minutes (this is a no-bake recipe!)
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Start by preparing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides. This simple step will help prevent sticking and make it easier to lift out your delicious bars later.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss together the pretzel sticks and graham cracker crumbs. Use your hands or a spatula to break the pretzel sticks into smaller pieces, ensuring they blend nicely with the graham cracker crumbs.
- Pour the melted butter over the pretzel and graham cracker mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, and the dry ingredients are fully coated in butter. The texture should be slightly crumbly yet cohesive when pressed.
- Transfer your mixture into the prepared baking dish. Using the back of a spatula or your fingers, firmly press the mixture into an even layer, making sure to pack it tightly to create a stable base for your bars.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Stir the mixture well until the brown sugar is completely dissolved and everything is beautifully smooth.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the pressed pretzel base, spreading it evenly to cover every inch of the crust.
- Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the warm caramel layer. Let them sit for a few minutes so they soften.
- Once softened, gently spread the chocolate chips into an even layer over the caramel. For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle a little sea salt on top.
- Refrigerate the baking dish for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate and caramel layers have firmed up perfectly.
- After chilling, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Transfer them to a cutting board.
- With a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on how you like your treats.
- Serve your no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy the delightful balance of salty and sweet flavors!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to use gluten-free pretzels and graham crackers for a gluten-free version!
- For an added touch, drizzle a bit of melted chocolate on top after cutting the bars.
- These bars are perfect for parties or as a sweet treat anytime you’re craving something special.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe doesn’t require any cooking; instead, it utilizes the art of layering and refrigeration to create a delicious, no-bake treat. Pressing the crust tightly is key to ensuring your bars hold together well after chilling, so don’t skip that step!
FAQ
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be prepared a day or two in advance, making them perfect for gatherings or events.
What should I do if the chocolate doesn’t melt nicely?
If your chocolate chips are not spreading easily, feel free to pop the baking dish back in the fridge for a few more minutes until the chocolate is slightly firmer, which will help you spread it more easily.
Can I substitute different types of chocolate?
Of course! If you prefer dark chocolate or white chocolate, feel free to swap them in for the semi-sweet chocolate chips!
Conclusion
These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are truly a delightful way to indulge your sweet tooth while still enjoying that satisfying crunch. The contrasting flavors and textures come together to create a treat that is easy to make and impossible to resist. So gather your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy every sweet, salty bite!