Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the perfect treat for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a luscious caramel layer, and a light creamy topping, they come together effortlessly without any baking.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix well until fully combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
2. Step 2: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it out nicely, then sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the caramel layer.
3. Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
4. Step 4: Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in an even layer, smoothing the top.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are firm and set.
6. Step 6: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious bars!

Tips & Variations

• Press the pretzel crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together well after chilling.
• Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor, or try making your own for a special touch.
• For an extra indulgence, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle chopped nuts on top before chilling.
• You can swap the pretzel crumbs for graham cracker crumbs if you prefer a less salty crust.

Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to enjoy again, serve chilled or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes for a softer texture. Avoid freezing as it may affect the creamy topping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a rich, fresh flavor and works perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure it is cooled before layering.

How long do these bars need to chill?

Chilling the bars for at least 2 hours is important to let them set firmly for easy slicing and perfect texture.

Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 52 reviews

These No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a luscious caramel layer and a creamy whipped topping, delivering an irresistible mix of sweet and salty flavors without the need for baking. Perfect for quick dessert cravings or special occasions, these bars are easy to make and sure to impress.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 9–12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pretzel Crust

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

Caramel Layer

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

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

• Press the pretzel crust firmly to help it hold together once set.
• Use high-quality caramel sauce for the best flavor; homemade caramel is a great option if you have the time.
• Chill the bars for the full duration to achieve the right texture; they should be firm enough to cut easily.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For extra indulgence, serve with vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or chopped nuts.

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