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You need a few key items to make these bars. Here’s what you will need: - 2 cups crushed pretzels - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) - Flaky sea salt for sprinkling These ingredients create a perfect blend of sweet and salty. The pretzels give a nice crunch, and the caramel adds rich flavor. You can add some fun twists to your bars. Here are some optional ingredients to consider: - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips Adding chocolate chips makes these bars even more delicious. You can sprinkle them on top after the caramel layer. If you have special dietary needs, there are swaps you can make. Here are some ideas: - Use gluten-free pretzels and graham crackers for a gluten-free option. - Replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. These swaps let everyone enjoy these tasty bars. Just remember to adjust the ingredients to fit your taste! To make the pretzel crust, gather your ingredients. You will need crushed pretzels, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. In a large bowl, mix these ingredients together. Use a spatula or your hands to blend them well. The mixture should feel like damp sand. Once mixed, press it firmly into the bottom of a 9x9-inch baking pan. Make sure it is even and tightly packed. This helps the bars stay together when cut. Next, we will prepare the caramel layer. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Place it over medium heat. Stir this mixture continuously for about 3 to 5 minutes. You want it warmed and slightly thickened. Once done, remove the saucepan from heat. Add in the vanilla extract and stir until it is well mixed. This layer adds a rich, sweet taste to the bars. Now, pour the warm caramel over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Let this cool at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. If you like, sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top. Press them in gently so they stick. After that, cover the pan with plastic wrap or foil. Place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps the bars set up nicely. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles. Before serving, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top for a tasty finish. To get the right texture, it's key to mix well. When you combine crushed pretzels, graham crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar, make sure everything is coated. It should feel like damp sand. Press it firmly into your baking pan. This step is crucial. A well-packed crust holds up better when you cut it. Using the right tools can save time. A large mixing bowl helps you mix ingredients easily. A spatula is great for spreading the caramel. If you have a whisk, use it for the sauce. It helps blend the sweetened milk and caramel smoothly. A 9x9-inch baking pan works well for these bars. If you line it with parchment paper, cleanup is easier. For flavor, consider adding chocolate chips. They add a nice touch of sweetness. Press them gently into the caramel layer. For a pretty finish, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after cutting the bars. This adds contrast to the sweet caramel. Drizzling extra caramel sauce over the bars makes them shine. Placing whole pretzels next to the bars also looks great on a platter. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of these bars. Add-ins like nuts or dried fruit work well. Try adding 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch. If you want a fruity touch, mix in some dried cranberries or cherries. You can also swap the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips. This gives a nice twist to the flavor. Each variation brings a new taste, making these bars your own. These bars can fit any occasion! For Halloween, add crushed candy corn on top. In December, swap caramel for peppermint bark. You can also use holiday-themed sprinkles for a festive touch. For birthdays, add colorful sprinkles or even a layer of frosting on top. These small changes can make the bars feel special and fun. If you want to skip the caramel sauce, you have options. You can use chocolate ganache instead. Just heat equal parts chocolate and cream until smooth. Pour it over the pretzel crust for a rich flavor. Another option is to use a fruit puree, like raspberry. This adds a fresh taste and a splash of color. These alternatives keep the bars delicious while offering a new experience. To keep your no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to keep them from drying out. You can layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking. Always keep the bars in the fridge, especially in warm weather. These bars can last up to a week in the fridge. If you want to store them longer, freeze them. Wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge. These bars are best enjoyed cold, so you don’t need to reheat them. However, if you want a warm treat, you can soften them slightly in the microwave. Heat them in short bursts of 10 seconds, checking often. Enjoy the gooey caramel and chocolate flavors for a delightful snack! Yes, you can make these bars without condensed milk. You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute. These options give a creamy texture similar to condensed milk. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness. Taste the mixture before pouring it over the crust. You may need to add a bit of sugar. The bars last up to one week in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn. If you don't have pretzels, you can use crushed graham crackers or rice cereal. Both options will give a crunchy base. You can also try using crushed cookies for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the sweetness based on what you choose. In this article, we explored how to make no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips. You can customize these bars with different flavors or dietary substitutes. Remember the best way to store them for lasting freshness. Making these treats can be simple and fun. Now, you can enjoy delicious bars anytime you want. Happy cooking!

No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars

Indulge in the deliciousness of no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars! Perfectly balanced with a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy caramel filling, and a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars are an irresistible treat. They only take 20 minutes to prep, making them an easy dessert for any occasion. Click through to discover the full recipe and enjoy this delightful combination of sweet and salty goodness in every bite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups crushed pretzels

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar. Use a spatula or your hands to mix until the ingredients are evenly coated and the mixture resembles damp sand.

    Carefully press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9-inch (or similar-sized) baking pan, forming an even layer for the crust. Ensure it is packed tightly for stability when cut.

      In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Whisk or stir continuously until the mixture is warmed through and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

        Remove the saucepan from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

          Pour the warm caramel mixture over the pretzel crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface. Allow it to cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

            If you are using mini chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently with your fingers or a spatula to help them adhere.

              Once the chocolate chips have been added (if using), cover the baking pan with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is fully set.

                After chilling, carefully remove the set bars from the pan using the edges of the parchment paper (if lined) or by gently lifting them out. Cut into square or rectangular bars. Before serving, sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt on top to enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 16 bars

                    - Presentation Tips: For an eye-catching display, arrange the bars on a decorative platter, and drizzle a bit of additional caramel sauce over the top for a glossy finish. You can also place a few whole pretzels alongside the bars for an appealing garnish.