Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars (Air Fryer Recipe)

Intro:

These Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars are the perfect no-mixer, no-fuss treat. Each bite features the ultimate combo: salty pretzel crunch, sweet peanut butter caramel, and rich chocolate—all made effortlessly in the air fryer. They’re great for parties, potlucks, or late-night cravings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Chill Time: 30–60 minutes

Air Fry Time (for crust): 6–7 minutes

Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Pretzel Crust:

2 cups crushed pretzels (about 3 cups whole)

½ cup melted butter (unsalted)

2 tbsp brown sugar

For the Caramel Peanut Butter Layer:

¾ cup creamy peanut butter

½ cup sweetened condensed milk

¼ cup light brown sugar

2 tbsp butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

2 tbsp peanut butter (for smoother, richer topping)

Instructions:

Prepare Pretzel Crust

Crush pretzels in a food processor or zip bag with a rolling pin.

Mix with melted butter and brown sugar.

Press the mixture firmly into a greased parchment-lined 7–8 inch square or round pan (metal or silicone, air fryer-safe).

Air Fry the Crust

Preheat air fryer to 160°C (320°F) for 3 minutes.

Place the pan in the basket and air fry at 160°C for 6–7 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.

Let cool while you make the filling.

Make Caramel Peanut Butter Filling

In a saucepan (or microwave in short bursts), melt peanut butter, sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar.

Stir until smooth and bubbly (about 3–5 minutes on medium heat).

Remove from heat and mix in vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Assemble Middle Layer

Pour the warm caramel-peanut butter mixture over the cooled pretzel crust.

Smooth out evenly with a spatula.

Make Chocolate Topping

Melt chocolate chips and peanut butter together (microwave in 30-second bursts or over a double boiler).

Stir until glossy and smooth.

Pour over the caramel layer and spread gently.

Chill and Set

Refrigerate for 30–60 minutes until firm.

Slice into bars and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks:

Line your pan with parchment paper with overhang—this makes lifting and slicing easier.

Use chunky peanut butter for added crunch.

Sprinkle crushed pretzels or sea salt on top before chilling for extra crunch and salty contrast.

Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months (just wrap tightly).

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature.

Pair with a hot espresso, cold milk, or even vanilla ice cream.

Great for gift boxes, lunchbox treats, and midnight snacks.

Nutrition Facts (per bar, approx. 1 of 16):