Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a perfect combination of sweet and salty, with a crunchy base, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. The best part? No baking is required! This dessert comes together quickly and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. The layers of pretzels, graham cracker crumbs, and a luscious caramel topping make for a decadent treat that pairs beautifully with a sprinkle of sea salt. Ideal for a quick dessert, holiday gatherings, or any time you want a satisfying indulgence, these bars are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

2 cups pretzel sticks
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), melted
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup caramel sauce
Sea salt, for sprinkling

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

Directions

Prepare the Pan: Start by lining an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pretzel sticks and graham cracker crumbs. Stir until evenly distributed.
Add Butter and Sugar: Pour the melted butter into the pretzel and graham cracker mixture. Add the brown sugar and mix thoroughly until everything is well combined and the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the Base: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly and evenly to create a solid base. You can use the back of a measuring cup or your hands to make sure it is packed tightly.
Make the Caramel Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and half of the caramel sauce. Stir until everything is well blended.
Add the Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel mixture over the pressed pretzel base in the pan. Spread it evenly across the surface using a spatula.
Sprinkle Chocolate Chips: Evenly distribute the chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Let them sit for a minute to soften, then gently press them into the caramel with the spatula.
Drizzle with Caramel: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the chocolate chips, ensuring it’s evenly spread out.
Finish with Sea Salt: Sprinkle a generous amount of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness with a salty kick.
Chill the Bars: Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours, or until fully set. Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
Cut and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles with a sharp knife, and enjoy your no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 16 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or almonds, into the caramel or sprinkle them on top for a crunchy texture.
Chocolate Variety: Use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate for a different flavor profile.
Caramel Twist: Try using homemade caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cracker?

Yes, you can substitute the graham cracker crumbs with digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or any other mild-flavored crumbly cracker.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pretzels and graham cracker crumbs. There are many gluten-free options available in stores.

Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate all work well in this recipe.

How do I know when the bars are set?

The bars will be set when the caramel has cooled and thickened. You can test this by gently pressing on the surface; it should not be sticky.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead. Just be sure to store them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s a thick, rich sauce for the best results.

What can I do if the caramel doesn’t thicken?

If your caramel sauce is too runny, simply cook it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. It should be spreadable but not liquid.

Can I add more sea salt?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of sea salt to your taste preference. A little extra can add a nice salty-sweet contrast.

Are these bars very sweet?

These bars are on the sweeter side, but the salt on top helps balance out the sweetness. Feel free to reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet treat.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

You can substitute margarine for butter, but the flavor and texture may differ slightly. Butter gives a richer taste and firmer texture to the bars.

Conclusion

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet and salty. With a crunchy pretzel base, creamy caramel, and decadent chocolate, each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The best part is that they’re easy to make, and you don’t even need to turn on the oven! Whether you’re preparing a quick snack, a dessert for a party, or just a treat to enjoy at home, these bars are sure to be a hit.