Description
Make these addictive Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars with layers of caramel, chocolate, and crunchy pretzels. A no-bake, sweet & salty dessert perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Ingredients List
For Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars:
- Pretzels: 2 cups, crushed
- Caramel Candies: 11 oz (about 1 bag), unwrapped
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: ¼ cup
- Chocolate Chips: 1 cup, semi-sweet or dark
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (for binding the pretzels)
- Optional Toppings: Sea salt, extra crushed pretzels, or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Pretzel Base
- Line the Pan
- Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing an overhang on the sides. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Crush the Pretzels
- Place 2 cups of pretzels in a large resealable plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin until coarsely ground, or use a food processor for finer crumbs.
- Mix Pretzels and Butter
- In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pretzels with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the pretzels are evenly coated and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the base layer.
Making the Caramel Layer
- Melt Caramel Candies
- In a saucepan over low heat, combine the caramel candies and ¼ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Pour Caramel Over the Pretzels
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the pretzel base, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Work quickly, as the caramel will begin to set. Allow it to cool slightly before adding the chocolate layer.
Creating the Chocolate Layer
- Melt the Chocolate
- Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Alternatively, melt the chocolate over a double boiler.
- Spread the Chocolate Layer
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt, extra crushed pretzels, or chopped nuts for added flavor and texture, if desired.
- Chill to Set
- Place the pan in the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 1 hour, or until the bars are firm and the layers have set completely.
Final Steps
- Cut and Serve
- Once fully set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles. Serve cold or at room temperature for a chewy, crunchy treat.
- Storage Instructions
- Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month, allowing the bars to thaw slightly before serving.
Notes
Tips for Serving, Storing, and Reheating
Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are best served cold or at room temperature to maintain their chewy texture and distinct layers, but here are some additional tips for serving, storing, and reheating them if needed.
Serving Tips
- Serve Chilled or at Room Temperature
- These bars are perfect straight from the fridge or after being left out for a few minutes. Chilling helps the layers stay firm, while a few minutes at room temperature softens the caramel for a more satisfying chew.
- Cut into Small Squares
- Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are rich and flavorful, so smaller squares make for the ideal serving size. An 8×8 pan can yield 16 squares, while a 9×9 pan can provide up to 20 smaller squares, perfect for sharing.
- Add Garnishes for a Festive Touch
- For special occasions or presentations, top each bar with a light drizzle of melted chocolate, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or even edible gold dust for an elegant touch.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea
- The sweet and salty combination pairs beautifully with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk, providing a balance to the richness of the bars.