Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
- 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