Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a rich caramel layer and a light, creamy topping. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without the need for an oven, these bars are easy to make and ideal for a delicious dessert or snack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
For the Creamy Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
- Layer the Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the sea salt on top of the caramel layer.
- Make the Creamy Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even top layer.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful creation!
Notes
- For a stronger pretzel flavor, use salted pretzels and reduce the added salt in the caramel layer.
- Caramel sauce can be store-bought for convenience or homemade for a richer taste.
- Ensure the heavy cream is cold before whipping for best results.
- Store the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- For a variation, add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds to the pretzel crust for extra crunch.
Keywords: no-bake dessert, salted caramel bars, pretzel bars, quick dessert, easy caramel bars, creamy topping dessert, sweet snack
