Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate caramel pretzel bars combine salty, sweet, and crunchy in one irresistible treat. These bars are easy to make and perfect for satisfying your snack cravings. Enjoy a delightful mix of buttery caramel, salty pretzels, and rich chocolate in every bite.
Ingredients
- 4 cups mini pretzel twists
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Step 2: Arrange the pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
- Step 3: In a small pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then continue boiling for 3 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Step 4: Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the pretzels. Don’t worry if some spots seem missed—the caramel will spread as it bakes.
- Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling over the entire sheet.
- Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top. Return the sheet to the oven for 1 to 2 minutes to soften the chocolate chips.
- Step 7: Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer over the caramel and pretzels. Then place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to set.
- Step 8: Once firm, remove the bars from the baking sheet and peel off the foil. Break into pieces or cut into squares with a large knife.
Tips & Variations
- For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the chocolate before setting.
- Use dark or milk chocolate chips depending on your chocolate preference.
- Ensure the caramel mixture is boiling for the full 3 minutes to achieve the perfect chewy texture.
Storage
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. To soften the chocolate again before serving, leave the bars at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pretzel?
Yes, pretzel rods or squares can work, but mini twists cover the pan more evenly and create the best texture.
What if I don’t have a freezer?
If you don’t have a freezer, place the bars in the refrigerator until the chocolate sets, though it may take longer—about 1 to 2 hours.
PrintChocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
These Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars combine salty pretzels with rich caramel and smooth melted chocolate for a deliciously sweet and salty treat. Easy to prepare and perfect for snacking or entertaining, these bars feature a buttery caramel layer draped over crunchy pretzels and topped with creamy chocolate chips.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: About 24 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 4 cups mini pretzel twists
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 cups chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then spray it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Arrange Pretzels: Spread the mini pretzel twists on the baking sheet in a single, even layer, covering the entire surface so every bite will have a good pretzel base.
- Melt Caramel Mixture: In a small pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then continue boiling for 3 minutes while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, bubbly caramel.
- Pour Caramel Over Pretzels: Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the pretzels. Don’t worry if coverage isn’t perfect since the caramel will spread out and even during baking.
- Bake the Pretzels and Caramel: Bake the baking sheet in the preheated oven at 325°F for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the caramel is fully bubbling across the entire sheet, ensuring it is cooked through.
- Add Chocolate Chips: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the warm caramel layer. Return the sheet to the oven for 1 to 2 minutes to soften the chocolate chips.
- Spread Melted Chocolate: Use a spatula to spread the softened, melted chocolate into an even layer over the caramel and pretzels for a smooth, glossy finish.
- Chill and Set: Place the baking sheet in the freezer for 30 minutes to allow the chocolate and caramel to set firmly.
- Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the bars from the freezer. Carefully lift the foil and remove the pretzel bars from the baking sheet. Break or cut the bars into squares using a large knife. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure you stir the caramel mixture constantly while boiling to prevent burning and graininess.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- For easier cutting, warm the knife slightly or score the bars before fully setting.
Keywords: chocolate caramel pretzel bars, caramel bars, pretzel bars, chocolate pretzel dessert, easy dessert, sweet and salty snack
