Salted Chocolate and Caramel Pretzel Bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends simple ingredients into a luxurious dessert with minimal effort. The salty crunch of pretzels balances the sweetness of caramel and chocolate perfectly, creating a crowd-pleasing flavor and texture contrast. It’s no-bake, making it quick and accessible for bakers of all levels, plus you can easily customize the toppings or chocolate type.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12-ounce package semi-sweet chocolate chips (high-quality, divided)
• 8 ounces mini pretzel twists (half of a regular 16-ounce bag)
• 11-ounce bag Kraft Caramel Bits or homemade caramel
• Sea salt for sprinkling

Directions

1. Prepare Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt half the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
3. Layer Chocolate: Spread the melted chocolate evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Add Pretzels: Sprinkle the mini pretzel twists evenly over the chocolate layer.
5. Add Caramel: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel bits according to package instructions until smooth. Pour the caramel evenly over the pretzels.
6. Top with Chocolate: Melt the remaining chocolate chips and drizzle or spread over the caramel layer.
7. Sprinkle Sea Salt: Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the top to enhance the flavors.
8. Chill: Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours or until firm.
9. Cut and Serve: Remove from the pan using parchment edges, cut into bars, and enjoy.

Servings and timing

• Makes approximately 16 bars
• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Chilling time: 2 hours
• Total time: about 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
• Sprinkle crushed pretzels on top for a decorative finish.
• Drizzle with white chocolate for a contrasting flavor and look.
• Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer taste.

storage/reheating

Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving. These bars are best enjoyed chilled and do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use regular pretzels instead of mini pretzels?

Yes, just break regular pretzels into smaller pieces for even layering.

Is it necessary to use sea salt?

Sea salt adds a nice finishing touch but can be omitted if preferred.

Can I make caramel from scratch?

Yes, homemade caramel can be used instead of caramel bits.

How do I melt chocolate without burning it?

Microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, or use a double boiler.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pretzels and ensure caramel bits are gluten-free.

Can I prepare these bars in advance?

Yes, they keep well in the fridge and are great for make-ahead treats.

Are these bars very sweet?

They have a balanced sweet and salty flavor, but you can adjust chocolate type or caramel quantity.

Can I use white chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, but flavor and sweetness will vary.

How thick should I make the layers?

Spread the chocolate and caramel evenly, about ¼ to ½ inch thick for each layer.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pan and adjust chilling time accordingly.

Conclusion

Salted Chocolate and Caramel Pretzel Bars are a deliciously addictive treat combining rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pretzels with a hint of saltiness. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet and salty cravings with every bite.

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