These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are the perfect treat for anyone who enjoys sweet and salty flavors combined together. These bars are ideal for any occasion since they have layers of creamy chocolate, gooey caramel, and crispy pretzels. Both making and eating them are simple!
📋 Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 🥨 4 cups mini pretzels
- 🧈 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 🥄 1 cup brown sugar, packed
For the Topping:
- 🍫 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 🍬 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels, unwrapped
- 🥛 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 🧂 Sea salt (optional)
📝 Directions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
2️⃣ Arrange Pretzels: Arrange the mini pretzels in an even layer on the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
3️⃣ Make the Caramel Base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 3-4 minutes, without stirring, until it turns a deep caramel color.
4️⃣ Pour Caramel: Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the pretzels, spreading it out evenly with a spatula to cover all the pretzels.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel and pretzels. Let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
6️⃣ Add Caramel Drizzle: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits or soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. Drizzle the melted caramel over the chocolate layer.
7️⃣ Sprinkle with Sea Salt: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top for an extra salty-sweet contrast.
8️⃣ Chill: Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
9️⃣ Cut and Serve: Use the overhanging foil or parchment to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Calories: 200 kcal per bar
💡 Notes:
- For a different flavor twist, you can use white chocolate chips or a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.