These No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy flavors in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients and no need to turn on the oven, these bars are quick to make and utterly irresistible for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required: Perfect for hot days or when you need a simple dessert.
- Sweet and salty combo: The caramel and pretzel pairing creates a deliciously addictive contrast.
- Quick to make: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
- Perfect for sharing: A great treat to bring to parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pretzels
- Caramel candies or caramel sauce
- Butter
- Brown sugar
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Chocolate chips
- Sea salt (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the base: Line a baking dish with parchment paper and layer the pretzels evenly across the bottom.
- Make the caramel layer: In a saucepan, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar until dissolved. Add the sweetened condensed milk and cook until thickened. Pour the caramel over the pretzel layer.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. Spread the chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle sea salt or extra crushed pretzels over the chocolate if desired.
- Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are set.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into bars or squares and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 bars (depending on the size of your cuts)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 2 hours
Variations
- Nutty twist: Add crushed peanuts, almonds, or cashews for added crunch and flavor.
- Dark chocolate version: Swap milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- Peanut butter drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted peanut butter on top for extra indulgence.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pretzels to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Vegan option: Substitute dairy-based ingredients with vegan butter, coconut condensed milk, and dairy-free chocolate.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Freezing: Wrap each bar in wax paper and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Reheating: These bars are best served chilled or at room temperature and do not require reheating.
FAQs
What type of pretzels work best for this recipe?
Mini pretzels or pretzel sticks work best for even layering and easy cutting.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can be used as a time-saving alternative.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when cutting?
Allow the bars to come to room temperature before slicing and use a sharp knife.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! These bars can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
What’s the best way to cut clean slices?
Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then wipe it clean between cuts.
Are there alternatives to condensed milk?
You can use a thick caramel sauce or a coconut milk-based caramel for a similar texture.
Can I use white chocolate instead of regular chocolate?
Yes, white chocolate can be used for a sweeter variation.
How long do these bars need to chill?
Chill the bars for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
Can I add other toppings to these bars?
Yes, shredded coconut, toffee bits, or sprinkles are great additions.
Are these bars freezer-friendly?
Yes, they freeze well when individually wrapped and stored in a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are a simple yet decadent treat perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings. Whether you’re preparing for a party, looking for an easy dessert, or just want a delightful homemade snack, this recipe is a go-to option. Customize it to your liking, and enjoy every bite of this irresistible dessert!
PrintNo-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars
Sweet, salty, and irresistibly crunchy, these no-bake caramel pretzel crack bars are the perfect treat. Layers of crushed pretzels, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate come together in a quick and easy dessert that satisfies every craving. Great for parties or an indulgent snack at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: no-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- For the Base:
- 2 1/2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even layer. Chill in the freezer for 15 minutes.
- Make the Caramel Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and pourable.
- Pour the caramel over the pretzel layer, spreading evenly. Chill again for 10 minutes to set slightly.
- Add the Chocolate Layer:
- In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading evenly.
- Set and Serve:
- Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until completely set.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or bars.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For a more festive look, sprinkle crushed pretzels or sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets.