caramel chocolate Crunch Bars
There is something enchanted about the mix of sweet and salty flavors, which is what makes delicacies like pretzel caramel bars so tempting that they are impossible to refuse.
Every single bite is a wonderful combination of different textures and flavors, with a crust made of crunchy pretzels, a layer of gooey caramel, and a topping made of creamy chocolate.
These bars are your new go-to option, whether you are hosting a party, searching for a quick treat, or simply want to indulge in something delicious. Their versatility makes them essential. Let’s get started on the process of preparing these heavenly sweets!
Ingredients
For the Base:
2 cups crushed pretzels
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer:
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional, for drizzle)
Instructions
Prepare the Base:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar together until well combined.
Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan to form an even crust.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Once baked, set it aside to cool.
Make the Caramel Layer:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream.
Stir constantly until the mixture begins to boil, then cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Pour the caramel evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Chill the entire pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to allow the caramel to set.
Add the Chocolate Topping:
While the caramel is chilling, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. You can do this in the microwave, heating in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth and melted.
Once the caramel has set, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
For an extra touch, drizzle the white chocolate chips over the top for a decorative effect, if desired.
Chill & Serve:
Place the pan back in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is set.
Once chilled, slice into bars and enjoy the perfect balance of crunch and sweetness in every bite!
Storage Information
Refrigeration: Store these pretzel caramel bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The bars will stay fresh and keep their texture.
Freezing: If you’d like to store them longer, freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before freezing, and let them thaw before serving