• No-Bake Pretzel Bars with Salted Caramel
If you enjoy treats that balance salty crunch with deep, sugary richness, these bars will absolutely win you over. They came to life on a spontaneous weeknight when I craved something indulgent but didn’t want to switch on the oven—and they instantly became a staple in our house. A handful of pretzels, some caramel, and a bit of chocolate turned into a dessert that feels gourmet while requiring almost no effort at all.
What makes them irresistible is the trio of textures: crisp pretzels, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate. Layered together, they form a bar that slices cleanly, looks impressive, and disappears faster than anything else at potlucks, bake sales, family gatherings, or simple movie nights.
The best part? You probably already have everything sitting in your pantry.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mini pretzels (crushed with some bigger chunks) | 3 cups | Adds crunch and structure |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1½ cups | Divided for layers |
| Peanut butter | ½ cup | Smooth or chunky, split between layers |
| Soft caramels | 1½ cups (≈11 oz) | Unwrapped |
| Heavy cream or milk | 2 tbsp | Helps melt the caramel |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Adds richness |
| Flaky sea salt | To taste | For finishing |
Instructions
Prepare the Pan – Line an 8×8-inch dish with parchment and leave overhang so you can lift the bars out later.
Chocolate Base – Melt 1 cup chocolate chips with ¼ cup peanut butter in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Spread in the pan and chill for around 10 minutes.
Caramel Layer – Warm the caramels with the cream and butter until smooth and melted. Stir in the crushed pretzels, then spread over the firm chocolate layer.
Top Layer – Melt the last ½ cup chocolate chips with the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter. Pour over the caramel mixture and smooth the surface.
Finish – Sprinkle flaky sea salt across the top. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, or until completely set.
Slice & Enjoy – Lift the slab out using the parchment, cut into bars or squares, and serve.
✨ These no-bake bars are fast, easy to transport, and universally loved—proof that incredible desserts don’t require an oven at all.
