No-Bake Pretzel Bars with Salted Caramel

Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel Layer

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly with a heat-resistant spatula or wooden spoon to prevent burning.
3. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened and glossy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt. Taste and adjust salt as desired.
5. Pour the caramel over the chilled pretzel base and spread evenly. Return to the fridge for 15–20 minutes to firm up slightly.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
2. Pour the chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
3. Optional: sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate for an extra salty-sweet punch.
4. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.

Step 4: Cut and Serve

1. Once fully chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
2. Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or rectangles. For clean cuts, warm the knife under hot water and dry it before slicing.
3. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Bars

• Crunch Factor: Don’t crush all the pretzels too finely—keeping chunks adds a fun crunch.
• Salt Balance: Taste the caramel before pouring; a little more sea salt can enhance the flavor.
• Chocolate Variations: Try milk chocolate or a mix of milk and dark chocolate for variety.
• Make Ahead: These bars are perfect to make a day in advance as chilling enhances the layers’ textures.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

The magic of these No-Bake Pretzel Bars with Salted Caramel lies in the combination of textures and flavors:

• Crunchy pretzel base that provides a sturdy, salty foundation
• Gooey, buttery caramel that melts in your mouth
• Smooth chocolate topping that adds a decadent finish

Each bite delivers a delightful contrast of sweet and salty, soft and crunchy—a treat that’s both comforting and impressively elegant for any occasion.

If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with images for each stage, so it’s almost impossible to make a mistake while preparing these bars. It would look like a professional recipe tutorial.

Do you want me to make that?