No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Introduction

These no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars combine crunchy pretzel crust, smooth caramel, and fluffy whipped cream into one irresistible treat. Perfect for when you want a quick and delicious dessert without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pretzel crumbs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, mix pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch dish to form the crust.
2. Step 2: Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the crust. Sprinkle sea salt on top to balance the sweetness.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue whipping until stiff peaks develop.
4. Step 4: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the caramel layer, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the bars are fully set.
6. Step 6: Once chilled, cut into squares and serve cold.

Tips & Variations

• Use graham cracker crumbs instead of pretzel crumbs for a sweeter crust.
• Substitute coconut oil for butter to make a dairy-free crust.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut cream and omit powdered sugar for a dairy-free topping.
• Reduce granulated sugar in the crust if you prefer a less sweet dessert.
• Try almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor twist.
• Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top just before serving for added sweetness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best texture, serve these bars chilled. If needed, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften slightly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crumb for the crust?

Yes, graham cracker crumbs work well as a sweeter alternative, while crushed cookies can add variety depending on your taste.

How do I make this dessert dairy-free?

Replace the butter in the crust with coconut oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the topping. Make sure to choose a dairy-free caramel sauce, or prepare your own.

No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 50 reviews

These no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a gooey caramel layer and a light whipped cream topping, creating the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Ready in minutes and chilled to set, they make a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that requires no oven time.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust

• 2 cups Pretzel Crumbs (or graham cracker crumbs for a twist)
• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted, coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free swap)
• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (adjust based on sweetness preference)

For the Filling

• 1 cup Caramel Sauce (ensure it is pourable for easy spreading)
• 1/2 teaspoon Sea Salt (adjust to taste)

For the Topping

• 1 cup Heavy Cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free option)
• 1/4 cup Powdered Sugar (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (almond extract can be used as a twist)

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch dish to form a sturdy base.
2. Add the caramel layer: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the prepared crust using a spatula to spread it smoothly. Sprinkle the sea salt evenly on top to enhance the sweet and salty flavor.
3. Whip the topping: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks develop.
4. Assemble the bars: Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the caramel layer, smoothing the top for an even finish.
5. Chill to set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until fully set.
6. Serve: Remove from the refrigerator, cut into squares, and serve chilled. Enjoy your delicious no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars!

Notes

• Optional: Drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness before serving.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Keywords: No-bake, Salted Caramel, Pretzel Bars, Easy Dessert, Sweet and Salty, Pretzel Crust, Whipped Cream Topping