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- 2 cups pretzel sticks, crushed - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk - 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Sea salt flakes for garnish Using unsalted butter is key for this recipe. It gives you control over the salt. Too much salt can overpower the sweet caramel and chocolate. With unsalted butter, you can create a balanced flavor. Sweetened condensed milk is a star in this dish. It adds creaminess and sweetness to the caramel. This milk helps the caramel become smooth and thick. It makes your bars extra delicious. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free pretzels. Many brands offer tasty choices that work well in this recipe. For a vegan twist, try using vegan chocolate chips. You can also replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. These swaps keep your bars friendly for everyone. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. 2. Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Make sure some paper hangs over the edges. This helps you lift the bars out later. 3. In a large bowl, mix the crushed pretzel sticks and melted butter. Stir well until the pretzels look shiny and coated. 4. Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish. This creates a nice, even crust. 1. While the crust bakes for 8-10 minutes, let's make the caramel. In a saucepan, combine brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk. 2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously. Soon, it will start to boil gently. 3. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens. 4. Remove the saucepan from heat and add the vanilla extract. Pour this caramel over the baked pretzel crust. 1. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes. This allows the caramel to bubble. 2. Take it out and sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Let them sit for a few minutes so they melt. 3. Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly on top. 4. Finish by sprinkling sea salt flakes over the chocolate layer. This adds a nice touch of flavor. 5. Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to set. 6. After they are set, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares and enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the section above. - Overbaking the crust: Keep a close eye on the crust. Bake it just until golden. If you bake it too long, it will become hard and dry. You want a nice, soft base for the bars. - Not allowing the bars to cool properly: Patience is key! If you cut the bars too soon, they will fall apart. Let them cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then chill them in the fridge for at least 2 hours. This helps the layers set well. - How to achieve a smooth chocolate layer: To get a nice smooth chocolate layer, melt the chocolate chips gently. You can use a microwave or a double boiler. Stir the chocolate until it’s fully melted. This will help you spread it easily over the caramel. - Tips for even caramel consistency: Stir the caramel mixture constantly while it heats. This helps prevent burning and ensures it thickens evenly. When you pour it over the crust, make sure to spread it out evenly for a perfect layer. - Creative plating ideas: Use a decorative platter to showcase your bars. You can cut them into fun shapes, like triangles or hearts, for a unique look. - Ways to enhance the visual appeal: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top and sprinkle extra sea salt for a pop of flavor and color. You can also add a few crushed pretzels on top for crunch and style. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above and start making these delicious treats! {{image_2}} You can make these chocolate caramel pretzel bars even better. Try adding nuts for some extra crunch. Chopped pecans or walnuts work well. They add a great texture that pairs well with the sweet layers. You can also experiment with flavored chocolate. Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate or milk chocolate. Each type of chocolate brings a new taste. You might even try adding a bit of orange zest for a fresh twist. If you need nut-free options, just skip the nuts. These bars are still delicious without them. You can also use nut-free chocolate chips. They are easy to find in stores. For those looking to cut sugar, use dark chocolate with less sugar. You can also use sugar substitutes in the caramel. Look for options like erythritol or stevia. These keep the flavor while lowering the sugar. Make these bars fit the season. During the holidays, add peppermint extract to the chocolate layer. It gives a festive flavor that everyone loves. You can also crush candy canes and sprinkle them on top for a fun crunch. In summer, try fruity additions. Chopped strawberries or raspberries can add a nice touch. Layer them on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds a burst of flavor and color to your bars. For the full recipe, check out Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars 🥨. To keep your chocolate caramel pretzel bars fresh, use an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers if you stack them. This prevents sticking. Store the bars in a cool, dry place. Avoid areas with heat or direct sunlight. If you want to freeze the bars, follow these steps: 1. Allow the bars to cool completely. 2. Cut the bars into squares. 3. Wrap each square in plastic wrap. 4. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container. For thawing, take out only what you need. Leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps them soften. You can also warm them for a few seconds in the microwave before serving. At room temperature, your bars can last for about one week. Make sure to check for signs of spoilage. If the chocolate looks dull or the caramel appears dry, it's time to toss them. Trust your senses! If they smell off, do not eat them. You can easily make these bars gluten-free by choosing the right pretzels. Look for brands that offer gluten-free pretzel sticks. Some popular options include Glutino and Snyder's of Hanover. Just make sure to check the label to confirm they are gluten-free. This simple switch allows everyone to enjoy these tasty bars. Yes, you can use different types of chocolate! If you prefer milk chocolate, it will add a creamy sweetness. Dark chocolate gives a richer taste and pairs well with the caramel. You can also mix the two for a unique flavor. Experiment with what you like best! Cutting these bars can be tricky if they crumble. To get neat slices, use a sharp knife. It helps to warm the knife slightly before cutting. Another tip is to chill the bars in the fridge for a bit longer before cutting. This makes them firmer and easier to handle. Absolutely! You can prepare these bars a few days in advance. Just follow the full recipe and store them in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge to maintain freshness. If you need to, you can also freeze them for longer storage. Just thaw them in the fridge before serving. This recipe combines sweet and salty flavors for a treat you will love. We discussed key ingredients, their benefits, and helpful tips to avoid common mistakes. You can put your unique spin on the bars with variations or dietary adjustments. Proper storage will keep them fresh longer. Enjoy creating these delicious bars, and don’t forget to share them! Have fun experimenting and making them your own.

Chocolate Caramel Pretzel Bars

Indulge in the sweet and salty delight of chocolate caramel pretzel bars! This easy recipe combines crunchy pretzel sticks with a rich caramel layer and melted chocolate for a treat everyone will love. Perfect for parties or as a tasty snack, these bars are a crowd-pleaser. Ready in just 2 hours and 30 minutes, click through to explore the full recipe and create this irresistible dessert today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups pretzel sticks, crushed

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 cup sweetened condensed milk

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sea salt flakes for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

    In a large bowl, combine the crushed pretzel sticks and melted butter. Stir until the pretzels are fully coated in butter.

      Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until just golden.

        While the crust is baking, combine the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture reaches a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly until thickened.

          Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked pretzel crust.

            Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the caramel to bubble.

              Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer. Let them sit for a couple of minutes until melted, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top.

                Sprinkle sea salt flakes generously over the chocolate layer for a salted caramel effect.

                  Let the bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set. Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 24

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the chocolate caramel pretzel bars on a decorative platter, and garnish with a sprinkle of extra sea salt or drizzled chocolate on top for an elegant finish.