Name: Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481819H53M45S
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pretzels, crushed; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips; Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Looking for a delightful treat that’s easy to make, requires no baking, and is utterly addictive? Look no further than these mouthwatering Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars! With the perfect combination of crunchy pretzels, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and indulge in sweet and salty bliss!

Ingredients:

2 cups pretzels, crushed

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Spread the crushed pretzels evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and starts to bubble, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour the caramel mixture over the pretzels in the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden brown.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer.

Let the chocolate chips sit for a few minutes to soften, then use a spatula to spread them evenly over the caramel.
If desired, sprinkle sea salt over the melted chocolate layer for a sweet and salty contrast.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set.

Once cooled and set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish and transfer them to a cutting board.
Cut into bars of your desired size and enjoy!

Nutritional Information:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories per serving: 220 kcal

Servings: 12 bars

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Serving Tips:

For an extra indulgent experience, serve these Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

Drizzle melted caramel sauce or chocolate syrup over the bars just before serving for an added touch of decadence.
Pair these bars with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a delightful treat any time of day.
Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of crushed pretzels or a dusting of cocoa powder for a visually appealing presentation.

These bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy serving and sharing.

Storage Tips:

Store leftover Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
To maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming too soft, you can store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

If storing in the refrigerator, allow the bars to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
You can also freeze these bars for longer-term storage. Wrap individual bars or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Alternatively, you can thaw them at room temperature for a few hours for a quicker option.

For a convenient grab-and-go snack, consider wrapping individual bars in parchment paper or plastic wrap before storing them in the freezer. This way, you can easily grab one whenever a craving strikes.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. However, be mindful of the additional saltiness it might add to the caramel layer. Adjust the amount of sea salt accordingly or omit it altogether if you prefer a less salty taste.

Can I substitute milk chocolate for semisweet chocolate chips?

Absolutely! While semisweet chocolate chips offer a slightly more intense chocolate flavor, milk chocolate can be a delicious alternative if you prefer a milder taste. Feel free to use your favorite type of chocolate chips or even chopped chocolate bars for a customized flavor profile.

How should I store leftovers?

To keep your Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you anticipate keeping them longer, refrigerate them for up to 1 week. For extended storage, freeze the bars in a well-sealed container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make gluten-free Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars by using gluten-free pretzels. Many brands offer gluten-free pretzel options made from alternative flours such as rice or corn. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, including the chocolate chips and vanilla extract, to accommodate a gluten-free diet without compromising on taste or texture.

Conclusion:

These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are the ultimate indulgence for any sweet tooth craving. With their irresistible blend of textures and flavors, they’re perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings or impressing guests at any gathering. Whether you enjoy them as a midday snack or a decadent dessert, these bars are guaranteed to leave you wanting more. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to treat yourself to a truly delicious delight!

📖 Recipe