Description
These Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars combine salty, sweet, and creamy flavors in a delightful no-bake treat. A crunchy pretzel base is topped with rich peanut butter, gooey homemade caramel, and a luscious chocolate-peanut butter ganache, creating the perfect balance of textures and taste. Ideal for dessert lovers seeking an easy yet indulgent bar.
Ingredients
Scale
Pretzel Base
- 2 cups mini pretzels, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Peanut Butter Layer
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Chocolate Topping
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the Pretzel Base: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed mini pretzels with the melted unsalted butter. Stir well until all pretzel pieces are evenly coated with butter.
- Bake the Base: Press the pretzel and butter mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a compact base layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Layer: While the base cools, mix 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter with the powdered sugar in a medium bowl until smooth and spreadable. Once the pretzel base is fully cooled, evenly spread this peanut butter mixture over it.
- Make Caramel Layer: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unwrapped caramel candies together with the heavy cream. Stir frequently until the mixture is smooth and pourable. Immediately pour it over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly.
- Melt Chocolate Topping: Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips and remaining 1/2 cup peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is completely smooth and combined. Pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly to cover the surface.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 2 hours or until fully set. Once firm, cut into 16 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For easier slicing, use a sharp knife warmed under hot water, then dried before cutting.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for best freshness.
- If you prefer, swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate to adjust sweetness level.
- Allow caramel to cool slightly before pouring to avoid melting the peanut butter layer excessively.
- Crushing pretzels can be done by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and gently pounding with a rolling pin.
