These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are a sweet-and-salty dream come true—crispy pretzels buried under a thick layer of buttery caramel and topped with chocolate for extra indulgence. They’re no-bake (well, oven-bake), easy to make, and completely addictive.
Perfect for holiday trays, bake sales, or when you need a little salted caramel therapy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🧈 Buttery Caramel Layer: Rich, golden, and smooth—just like homemade magic.
- 🥨 Crunchy Pretzel Base: Adds texture and that irresistible salty contrast.
- 🍫 Chocolate Finish: A glossy top layer that hardens into a crackled finish.
- ⏱️ No Mixing Required: Just layer, pour, and bake—no complicated steps.
- ✨ Addictively Crunchy: One bite and you’ll be hooked—just like everyone else!
Ingredients (Makes 12–15 bars):
For the Base:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 3 oz)
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt flakes or coarse salt (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy lifting later.
Step 2: Press the Pretzels
Spread the crushed pretzels evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.
You can lightly press them down with the back of a spoon to create a more even base.
Step 3: Cook the Caramel Mixture
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully melted.
Add the brown sugar and stir constantly as it cooks for 2–3 minutes , until smooth and bubbling.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract .
Step 4: Pour Over Pretzels
Pour the warm caramel mixture over the crushed pretzels.
Use a spatula to spread it out evenly across the pan.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the bars for 18–20 minutes , or until the caramel is golden and slightly bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5–10 minutes before adding the chocolate topping.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Layer
Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel layer.
Let sit for 2–3 minutes so the chips melt slightly, then spread with a spatula for a smooth finish.
If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt while the chocolate is still soft for that perfect sweet-salty touch.
Step 7: Chill and Slice
Let the bars cool at room temperature for 1 hour , then transfer to the refrigerator for 2 hours or until completely set.
Once firm, lift the slab from the pan using the parchment paper overhang and slice into bars or squares.
Tips for Success:
- 🕒 Don’t Skip the Chill Time: The caramel needs time to set properly.
- 🍫 Double the Chocolate: For extra richness, use 2 cups of chocolate chips.
- 🧂 Salted Caramel Lovers’ Tip: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for gourmet flair.
- 📦 Make Ahead Magic: These keep well in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
- 🧁 Switch It Up: Try white chocolate, pecans, or peanut butter swirls for fun variations.
Serving Suggestions:
- Break off a piece and enjoy straight from the tray!
- Wrap individually for gifting or school treats.
- Pair with coffee, milk, or a cold glass of almond milk for a balanced combo.
Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 15 servings):
(Approximate values – without optional salt)
- Calories: ~250 kcal
- Protein: ~2g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~15g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~18g
These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are dangerously delicious—sweet, salty, crunchy, and gooey all at once. With their golden caramel layer, crispy pretzels, and rich chocolate finish—it’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast.
So go ahead and make a batch today… because once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again!
