Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls Recipe
Introduction
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls are a delightful blend of creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and crunchy pretzels. Perfect as bite-sized treats, they combine rich flavors with a satisfying salty crunch that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 cup crushed pretzels (keep some pieces larger for texture)
- 4 oz white or milk chocolate, for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Step 2: Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until silky and fully incorporated.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and the crushed pretzels, distributing them evenly to balance the sweet and salty flavors.
- Step 4: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, smoothing out any cracks or uneven edges.
- Step 5: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least one hour to firm up and meld the flavors.
- Step 6: (Optional) Melt the white or milk chocolate. Dip each cheesecake ball halfway into the chocolate, return to the tray, and chill again until the chocolate hardens.
Tips & Variations
- For extra texture, keep some pretzel pieces larger rather than crushing them all finely.
- Try drizzling melted dark chocolate instead of dipping for a lighter chocolate touch.
- Use flavored caramel sauces like bourbon or sea salt caramel for unique variations.
Storage
Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If coated in chocolate, keep them chilled to maintain the coating’s firmness. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before enjoying.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these cheesecake balls ahead of time?
Yes, these cheesecake balls can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which actually helps the flavors develop more fully.
What can I use if I don’t have salted caramel sauce?
If you don’t have salted caramel sauce, you can use regular caramel sauce and sprinkle a little sea salt on the mixture to achieve the sweet and salty balance.
Print
Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 20 cheesecake balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls are delightful bite-sized treats combining creamy cheesecake, sweet caramel, and crunchy salted pretzels, optionally coated in smooth white or milk chocolate for an irresistible sweet and salty snack.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 cup crushed pretzels (keep some pieces larger for texture)
Chocolate Coating (Optional)
- 4 oz white or milk chocolate, for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is silky and fully incorporated.
- Add Salted Caramel and Pretzels: Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and the crushed pretzels, ensuring they are evenly distributed to blend the sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
- Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, smoothing out any cracks or uneven edges for a polished look.
- Chill to Set: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow them to firm up and for the flavors to meld.
- Optional Chocolate Coating: Melt the white or milk chocolate. Dip each cheesecake ball halfway into the melted chocolate and return them to the tray. Chill again until the chocolate hardens, adding an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Keep some pretzel pieces larger for a better texture contrast.
- For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate instead of dipping all the way.
- Store cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- These treats can also be frozen for up to 2 weeks; thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Salted Caramel, Pretzel, Cheesecake Balls, No-Bake Dessert, Sweet and Salty Treat
