Name: Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Introduction

These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are the perfect combination of sweet and salty, with a crunchy pretzel base and a creamy whipped topping. They come together quickly without baking, making them ideal for an easy yet impressive dessert.

The image shows a square dessert with three visible layers on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is a crumbly light brown base, likely made of crushed biscuits. On top of this is a thick white creamy layer, smooth and soft in texture. Above this, a glossy, rich caramel layer covers the cream, dripping slightly over the edge. The dessert is decorated on top with several dollops of fluffy white whipped cream arranged in a row along the edge. Each whipped cream dollop holds a small pretzel on top, sprinkled with coarse white salt. The colors are warm and inviting, with the caramel shiny and the cream and pretzels contrasting nicely. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined, then press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
Step 2: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust using a spatula. Sprinkle the sea salt on top of the caramel layer.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
Step 4: Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even top layer.
Step 5: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
Step 6: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator, cut into squares, and serve.

Tips & Variations

Try using flavored caramel sauces like bourbon or salted caramel for an extra twist.
For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the crushed pretzels before mixing with butter.
Substitute regular sugar with brown sugar in the crust for a richer flavor.
Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the crust for added texture and taste.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They are best served chilled but can be left at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving for a softer texture. Refrain from freezing as the whipped cream topping may lose its texture.

How to Serve

The image shows a square dessert with four distinct layers on a white plate. The bottom layer is a crumbly, light brown crust. Above that is a thick, creamy white layer, topped by a glossy, smooth caramel layer that gently drips over the edges. The top layer consists of fluffy white whipped cream dollops, each decorated with a small pretzel that is golden brown and sprinkled with coarse salt. The dessert is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars without a stand mixer?

Yes, you can whip the heavy cream using a hand whisk or an electric hand mixer, but it may take a bit longer to reach stiff peaks.

Can I use a different type of cookie instead of pretzels?

Absolutely! Graham cracker crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits can be used as a substitute for pretzel crumbs, though the salty-sweet balance will differ slightly.