Description

These irresistible Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a rich, buttery caramel layer topped with smooth melted chocolate, finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect sweet and salty treat. Easy to make and perfect for dessert lovers, these bars are sure to become a favorite snack or party dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

2 cups pretzels, crushed into coarse crumbs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
⅓ cup brown sugar

Caramel Layer

1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
¼ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup brown sugar

Topping

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark or white chocolate)
Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Crust: Crush the pretzels into coarse crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-lock bag and crushing with a rolling pin. In a bowl, mix the crushed pretzels with melted butter and ⅓ cup brown sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased or parchment-lined baking dish to form an even crust.
Make the Caramel Layer: In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, ¼ cup unsalted butter, and ¾ cup brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly, about 5-7 minutes. Pour this hot caramel evenly over the prepared pretzel crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes to set.
Prepare the Chocolate Topping: While the caramel sets, melt the chocolate chips using a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled caramel layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
Chill the Bars: Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
Serve: Once firm, cut into bars. Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt before serving to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

Use coarse pretzel crumbs for a nice crunch in the crust layer.
Be sure to stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent burning.
Melt chocolate gently to avoid seizing.
Sea salt on top enhances the flavor but is optional.
Store bars refrigerated to maintain firmness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars, caramel bars, pretzel dessert, chocolate caramel bars, easy dessert, sweet and salty bars