Sweet, salty, and dangerously addictive – these no-bake bars will disappear in minutes!
Why You’ll Love These Bars:
These bars are the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat, combining crunchy pretzels, buttery graham crackers, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. Perfect for parties, gifts, or a late-night snack, they require no baking and come together in just 30 minutes of active prep time. The contrast of textures and flavors makes them impossible to resist!
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups pretzel sticks, roughly crushed (leave some chunks for texture)
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8 full sheets)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar (for extra depth)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits (or 35 soft caramels, unwrapped)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for contrast)
- 1 tbsp coconut oil (makes chocolate smoother; substitute butter if preferred)
- Flaky sea salt (like Maldon, for finishing)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans or peanuts (mixed into the crust or sprinkled on caramel)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (added to the caramel)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Pan & Crust
- Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine crushed pretzels, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix until all crumbs are moistened.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup.
- Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to set while you prepare the caramel.
2. Make the Caramel Layer
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream.
- Stir constantly until completely melted and smooth (about 5–7 minutes). Optional: Stir in 1 tsp vanilla for extra flavor.
- Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the warm caramel over the top, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Return to the freezer for 15 minutes to firm up slightly before adding the chocolate.
3. Add the Chocolate Topping
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted (about 1–1.5 minutes total).
- Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread smoothly with a spatula.
- Immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt (and chopped nuts, if using).
4. Chill & Cut
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or freeze for 30 minutes if in a hurry) until fully set.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Slice into 16 squares (or smaller pieces for bite-sized treats).
Pro Tips for Success:
🔹 For clean cuts: Warm a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, then slice.
🔹 Extra crunch: Use chunky pretzel pieces instead of finely crushed.
🔹 Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for 1 month.
🔹 Serving suggestion: Warm slightly before serving for an extra-gooey texture!
Why This Recipe Works:
These bars strike the perfect balance of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and salty pretzels—making them a crowd favorite. The no-bake method ensures they’re foolproof, and the layers provide maximum flavor and texture contrast.
“The kind of treat people beg you to make again!” 🎉
Variation Ideas:
- Peanut butter twist: Swirl ½ cup melted peanut butter into the chocolate layer.
- Minty version: Add ½ tsp peppermint extract to the chocolate for a holiday twist.
- S’mores-style: Sprinkle mini marshmallows on the caramel layer before adding chocolate.
Final Note: These bars are great for gifting—wrap them in parchment and tie with twine for a homemade touch!