Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

These Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars are the ultimate sweet-and-salty treat. With layers of crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, they’re a decadent dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or satisfying your cravings, these bars are sure to be a crowd favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Sweet & Salty Combo: The contrast of salty pretzels with sweet caramel and chocolate is irresistible.
• No-Bake Treat: No oven required—just mix, layer, and chill for an easy dessert.
• Customizable: Swap in dark chocolate, white chocolate, or different candies to suit your taste.

 Ingredients:

• 2 cups mini pretzels , crushed
• ½ cup unsalted butter , melted
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter , divided (½ cup for the base, ½ cup for the caramel layer)
• 1¼ cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup caramel candies , unwrapped
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels , melted butter , and ½ cup peanut butter . Mix until the pretzels are evenly coated.
2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
3. Set aside while you prepare the next layers.

Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Layer

1. In a separate bowl, mix ½ cup peanut butter with 1¼ cups powdered sugar until smooth and crumbly.
2. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pretzel base, pressing it down lightly to create an even layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Layer

1. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream , stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
2. Pour the caramel evenly over the peanut butter layer, spreading it gently with a spatula.
3. Chill the pan in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to allow the caramel to set slightly.

Step 4: Add the Chocolate Layer

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Chill and Slice

1. Refrigerate the pan for at least 1–2 hours , or until the chocolate is completely set.
2. Once firm, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares or rectangles.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the bars chilled or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tips for Success:

• Crush Pretzels Easily: Place the pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet.
• Customize Toppings: Sprinkle sea salt, chopped peanuts, or sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate for added texture and flair.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week . Let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
• Freeze Option: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 16):

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: ~4g
• Carbohydrates: ~30g
• Fat: ~15g

Enjoy these Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars as a rich, indulgent treat that combines all your favorite flavors and textures. Their layers of crunch, creaminess, and sweetness make them impossible to resist—perfect for sharing or savoring all to yourself!