Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors, look no further than these No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars. Imagine a luscious layer of warm, ooey-gooey salted caramel sitting atop a crunchy base of pretzels and graham crackers, all finished off with a rich layer of semi-sweet chocolate. Not only do these bars come together quickly, but they also require no baking — just a little patience while they chill in the refrigerator. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in, these treats will surely impress everyone who takes a bite!
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
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- To start, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper, letting the edges overhang for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pretzel sticks and graham cracker crumbs. Use your hands or a spatula to break the pretzel sticks into smaller pieces, making sure they integrate well with the crumbs.
- Pour the melted unsalted butter over the pretzel and graham cracker mixture. Stir well until everything is generously coated.
- Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish. Firmly press it down into an even layer using the back of a spatula or your hands.
- In another mixing bowl, combine the packed brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the brown sugar dissolves completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Pour this luscious caramel mixture over the pressed pretzel base in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly over the surface.
- Evenly sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Allow them to sit for a few minutes to soften just a little.
- Once softened, gently spread the chocolate chips into an even layer across the caramel with a spatula. Top it off with a light sprinkle of sea salt.
- Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the layers are firm to the touch.
- After chilling, carefully remove the bars from the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang.
- On a cutting board, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Notes or Tips
- For added flavor, consider using flavored sea salt on top — smoked salt works wonders!
- These bars can be made a day in advance, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for gatherings.
- If you like a little extra crunch, consider adding crushed nuts into the pretzel mixture.
Cooking Techniques
Line your baking dish carefully to ensure a hassle-free release of the bars after chilling. Press the base firmly but gently to create a perfectly even layer — this will help the bars hold their shape. Keep an eye on the chocolate chip layer as it softens; you want a nice spread without melting it completely.
FAQ
- Can I substitute the pretzels? Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of crunchy snacks, like popcorn or potato chips, for varying flavor profiles.
- What if I don’t have sweetened condensed milk? You can make a homemade version using regular milk, sugar, and butter, although the flavor will differ slightly.
- How long will these bars last? When stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking!
Conclusion
These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a true treat for your taste buds, bringing together the best of sweet and salty in each bite. Their delightful texture and rich flavors make them a go-to for any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and whip up this easy, delectable dessert that will have everyone reaching for seconds!