Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Introduction

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the perfect combination of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors. With a crunchy pretzel crust, rich caramel layer, and smooth whipped topping, these bars make an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture holds together when pressed.
2. Step 2: Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
3. Step 3: Once the crust is cool, spread the caramel sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle the sea salt over the caramel layer to enhance the flavor.
4. Step 4: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
5. Step 5: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the caramel layer. Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours before cutting into squares and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer flavor or try adding a splash of bourbon to the caramel for an adult twist.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed pretzels on top of the whipped cream before refrigerating.
• Substitute sea salt with flaky Maldon salt for a more delicate salty finish.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the bars at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to soften the caramel slightly. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped topping may be affected.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?

Yes, homemade caramel can be made by melting sugar and adding cream and butter. It offers a fresher taste, but store-bought caramel works well for convenience.

Can these bars be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the bars a day in advance and refrigerate. This helps the flavors meld and the bars to set perfectly.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

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4.6 from 134 reviews

Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a delightful combination of crunchy pretzel crust, rich caramel, and a smooth, creamy topping finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. This no-bake dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with a creamy texture that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including chilling time)
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pretzel Crust

• 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Caramel Layer

• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Creamy Topping

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a bowl, mix the pretzel crumbs, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is well combined and resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper to form an even crust. Place it in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
2. Add the caramel layer: In a small bowl, stir the caramel sauce together with the sea salt until evenly combined. Pour the salted caramel over the chilled pretzel crust and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Return the dish to the refrigerator to set for 20-30 minutes.
3. Make the creamy topping: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. This should take about 3-5 minutes on medium-high speed.
4. Assemble the bars: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set caramel layer. Optionally, sprinkle with extra crushed pretzels or a light dusting of sea salt for added texture and flavor.
5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 1 hour or until the creamy topping is firm. Cut into squares and serve chilled for the best taste experience.

Notes

• Use crushed pretzels for the crust; finely crushed pretzels help hold the crust well.
• Store-bought caramel sauce saves time but you can make homemade caramel for a richer flavor.
• For a firmer topping, chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
• Keep bars refrigerated and consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• To make these bars vegan, substitute butter and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives and use vegan caramel sauce.

Keywords: salted caramel, pretzel bars, no-bake dessert, caramel bars, creamy topping, sweet and salty dessert