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Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars

Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars
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These Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars combine chewy, salty, and sweet elements with layers of crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate for a decadent dessert that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 2 cups pretzels, crushed (for salty crunch)
  • 1 cup caramel sauce or 12 soft caramel candies, chopped (for gooey center)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for rich chocolate flavor)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk (for chewy texture and caramel notes)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for moisture and richness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for aromatic sweetness)

Optional Variations & Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for extra nuttiness)
  • Dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet (for richer taste)
  • Peanut butter drizzle (for a swirl of flavor)
  • Flaky sea salt (for enhanced salty-sweet contrast)
  • Dairy-free chocolate, coconut caramel, and vegan butter (for vegan version)

Instructions

  1. Prep Your Pan and Ingredients: Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Measure out and have all your ingredients ready, focusing especially on the caramel and pretzels.
  2. Crush the Pretzels: Place pretzels in a sealed plastic bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin to create a mixture of large chunks and smaller crumbs, ensuring a perfect texture balance.
  3. Melt Butter and Mix with Condensed Milk: In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in sweetened condensed milk until smooth and combined. Remove from heat, and add vanilla extract to create a fragrant base.
  4. Combine Pretzels, Caramel, and Milk Mixture: Mix the crushed pretzels with caramel pieces or sauce, then fold this into the butter and condensed milk mixture, making sure everything is evenly coated.
  5. Press Mixture into the Pan: Transfer the mixture into your prepared pan, pressing down firmly to create an even layer that will hold together well once set.
  6. Top with Chocolate Chips and Chill: Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the top. Allow them to soften for about 5 minutes, then spread melted chocolate gently across the surface for a smooth chocolate finish.
  7. Refrigerate Until Firm: Place the pan in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until the bars are fully set and the chocolate is hardened. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out easily.

Notes

  • Choose fresh pretzels for the best crunch; older pretzels can become stale.
  • Keep the heat low when melting caramel to avoid burning or making it too stiff.
  • Allow enough refrigeration time to ensure firm bars; cutting too early may cause stickiness.
  • Use parchment paper to make removing and slicing the bars easy and mess-free.
  • Cut bars with a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry for smooth, clean edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chocolate, Caramel, Pretzel Bars, Sweet and Salty Dessert, No-Bake Dessert, Easy Treat, Snack Bars

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/chocolate-caramel-pretzel-bars/