Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

Introduction

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly blends the rich, buttery flavor of salted caramel with the satisfying crunch of pretzels, these Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are just what you need. They are simple to assemble, require no baking, and offer the perfect sweet and salty bite every time.

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 evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer.
2. Step 2: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly, then sprinkle the sea salt over the top of the caramel layer.
3. Step 3: 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 form.
4. Step 4: Spread the whipped cream mixture evenly over the caramel layer in the baking dish, 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, cut into squares, and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Press the pretzel crust firmly to help it hold together better once set.
• Use high-quality caramel sauce or homemade caramel for the best flavor.
• Chill the bars fully to ensure a firm texture that’s easy to cut.
• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or sprinkle chopped nuts on top for extra indulgence and crunch.

Storage

Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. When ready to enjoy, you can serve them cold or let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. These bars do not require reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. Just prepare and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative?

You can try using chilled coconut cream whipped to stiff peaks as a non-dairy alternative, though the texture and taste may vary slightly from the original recipe.

Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 110 reviews

• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 9–12 bars 1x

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Description

These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors with a crunchy pretzel crust, luscious caramel layer, and creamy topping. Easy to prepare without any baking, they make an ideal treat for any occasion, especially when you want a delightful dessert in under an hour. Suitable for families and perfect for last-minute cravings, these bars provide a satisfying and indulgent experience in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even base layer that holds together well.
2. Layer the Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread the caramel smoothly across the surface. Sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the caramel layer to enhance the sweet and salty flavor profile.
3. Make the Creamy Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks develop, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
4. Assemble the Bars: Gently spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even and creamy top layer that seals the bars.
5. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the bars are fully set and firm enough to cut cleanly into squares.
6. Slice and Serve: Remove the bars from the refrigerator, cut into squares of your desired size, and serve chilled. Enjoy the delicious balance of textures and flavors in every bite!

Notes

• Press the pretzel crust firmly to ensure the bars hold together well once set.
• Use high-quality caramel sauce or make your own for the best flavor.
• Allow full chilling time for optimal texture; bars should be firm for easy slicing.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Optional toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles can add extra flavor and texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: No-Bake, Salted Caramel, Pretzel Bars, Dessert, Sweet and Salty, Quick Dessert