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No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars

No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars: Sweet, Salty, and Irresistible

  • Author: Emma Taei

Ingredients

Ingredients and Why They Work

  1. Mini Pretzels:
    Provide a crunchy, salty base that perfectly balances the sweetness. Crushing them coarsely ensures texture in every bite.
  2. Sweetened Condensed Milk:
    Adds creamy sweetness and helps create the smooth caramel layer.
  3. Unsalted Butter:
    Adds richness to the caramel and enhances flavor.
  4. Light Brown Sugar:
    Provides depth and a hint of molasses to the caramel mixture.
  5. Caramel Sauce:
    Intensifies the caramel flavor, making the bars even more decadent.
  6. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips:
    Melted chocolate forms a rich top layer that complements the salty pretzels and sweet caramel.
  7. Sea Salt Flakes (Optional):
    A sprinkle of sea salt adds a gourmet touch and heightens the sweet-salty contrast.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan

  • Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  • This step makes cleanup a breeze and ensures the bars lift out seamlessly.

2. Create the Pretzel Layer

  • Spread the crushed pretzels evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan.
  • Press down slightly to create a uniform base.

3. Make the Caramel Mixture

  • Combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar in a medium saucepan.
  • Heat over medium, stirring continuously until smooth and bubbling.
  • Continue cooking for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This step ensures the caramel sets properly without being too runny.

4. Pour Over Pretzels

  • Remove the caramel mixture from heat and pour it evenly over the crushed pretzels.
  • Use a spatula to spread the caramel to cover the pretzels completely.

5. Add the Chocolate Layer

  • Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
  • Use a spatula to spread it evenly. For added flair, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top.

6. Chill and Set

  • Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours or until the chocolate is firm and the layers are set.

7. Cut and Serve

  • Once set, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan.
  • Slice into squares with a warm knife for cleaner cuts, and serve!

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Find it online: https://mingleflavors.com/no-bake-caramel-pretzel-crack-bars-sweet-salty-and-irresistible/