Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars
These chocolate caramel pretzel bars combine a crisp, salty pretzel crust with a rich caramel center and a smooth chocolate topping. They are easy to make, wonderfully indulgent, and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chunks or chips
Optional White Chocolate Drizzle
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions
1. Make the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, stir together the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar until fully combined. Press the mixture firmly into a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even base.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let the crust cool.
2. Cook the Caramel
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly as the mixture heats, then bring it to a gentle boil.
Continue cooking for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the caramel thickens slightly. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel over the cooled pretzel crust and spread it evenly. Place the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes so the caramel can set.
3. Add the Chocolate Layer
Place the semisweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each round, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the chilled caramel layer.
If desired, melt the white chocolate chips and drizzle them across the top for a decorative finish.
4. Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the bars for about 1 hour, or until fully set. Slice into squares and serve.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Bake Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Calories: 280 per bar
Final Note
Enjoy these sweet and salty dessert bars as a crowd-pleasing treat for parties, holidays, or anytime you want an easy homemade dessert.
