These Salted Chocolate and Caramel Pretzel Bars are the ultimate sweet-and-salty indulgence. Made with just four simple ingredients and no baking required, they come together quickly and are perfect for parties, gifting, or satisfying a snack craving. The combination of creamy chocolate, gooey caramel, crunchy pretzels, and a sprinkle of sea salt is absolutely irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes with no baking involved.
- Minimal Ingredients: Only four pantry staples required.
- Perfect Balance: Sweet chocolate and caramel pair beautifully with salty pretzels and a hint of sea salt.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, holiday treats, or an anytime snack.
Ingredients
- 12 oz package semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided (high-quality chocolate like Ghirardelli is recommended)
- 8 oz mini pretzel twists (about half a 16 oz bag)
- 11 oz bag Kraft Caramel Bits (or homemade caramel)
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Base
- Melt 8 oz of the chocolate chips in the microwave on low heat, stirring every 15 seconds until smooth.
- Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the parchment-lined baking sheet using a spatula.
Step 3: Add the Pretzels
- Arrange the mini pretzel twists on top of the melted chocolate. It’s fine if they overlap slightly—just press them gently into the chocolate so they stick.
Step 4: Melt and Drizzle Caramel
- Add the caramel bits to a microwave-safe bowl along with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Microwave on high for about 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
- Drizzle the melted caramel over the pretzels, covering them generously.
Step 5: Melt and Drizzle Remaining Chocolate
- Melt the remaining 4 oz of chocolate chips in the microwave using the same low-heat method.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer.
Step 6: Add Sea Salt and Chill
- Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the top for a perfect sweet-and-salty finish.
- Refrigerate the tray until the chocolate and caramel are fully hardened, about 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
- Once hardened, cut or tear the bars into pieces. Serve and enjoy!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Spatula
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve these bars chilled or at room temperature. They’re perfect as a snack or dessert.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like almonds or peanuts before drizzling the caramel.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Replace the second layer of chocolate drizzle with melted white chocolate for a decorative and sweet contrast.
- Festive Touch: Sprinkle with colored sprinkles or crushed peppermint for a holiday-themed treat.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Melting Chocolate: Use low heat and stir frequently to avoid burning the chocolate.
- Caramel Tips: If the caramel is too thick, stir in an additional teaspoon of water to thin it slightly.
- Cutting Bars: Use a sharp knife to cut clean pieces. If the bars are too hard, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular caramel instead of caramel bits?
Yes, melt soft caramel candies with a bit of water or cream until smooth, and drizzle over the pretzels.
What can I use instead of mini pretzels?
Pretzel sticks or pretzel squares work just as well. Adjust the arrangement to fit your preference.
Do I have to use sea salt?
Sea salt enhances the flavor balance, but you can omit it or substitute with coarse kosher salt.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free chocolate chips, vegan caramel, and vegan pretzels to make a vegan version.
How do I prevent the layers from separating?
Press the pretzels firmly into the melted chocolate and work quickly when layering to ensure they stick together.
These Salted Chocolate and Caramel Pretzel Bars are an easy, decadent treat that’s sure to become a favorite. Make them for holidays, parties, or whenever you need a little sweet-and-salty indulgence!
