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Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

4.8 from 115 reviews

These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a luscious salted caramel layer and a light, creamy topping. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without turning on the oven, these bars are easy to assemble and chill, resulting in a deliciously balanced treat with salty, sweet, and creamy flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pretzel Crust

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

For the Caramel Layer

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

For the Creamy Topping

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

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
  2. Layer the Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the sea salt on top of the caramel layer.
  3. Make the Creamy Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
  4. Assemble the Bars: Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even top layer.
  5. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
  6. Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Notes

  • Ensure the pretzel crumbs are finely crushed for an even crust.
  • Use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience or homemade for a richer flavor.
  • Whip the cream to stiff peaks for the best texture in the creamy topping.
  • Keep the bars refrigerated until serving to maintain firmness.
  • You can garnish bars with extra pretzel crumbs or a drizzle of caramel before serving for presentation.

Keywords: salted caramel bars, no-bake dessert, pretzel crust bars, creamy caramel bars, easy no-bake treats