Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a perfect sweet and salty treat for any occasion. With a crunchy pretzel crust, luscious caramel, and a creamy whipped topping, they come together effortlessly without baking.
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 pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well blended. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer.
- Step 2: Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it smooth. Sprinkle the sea salt over the caramel.
- Step 3: In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Step 4: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing the top.
- Step 5: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm and set.
- Step 6: Once chilled, remove from the fridge and cut into squares. Serve and enjoy your delicious bars!
Tips & Variations
- Press the pretzel crust firmly to ensure it holds together well once chilled.
- Use high-quality or homemade caramel sauce for the best flavor and richness.
- For extra indulgence, drizzle chocolate sauce or sprinkle chopped nuts on top before serving.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream or alongside coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
Storage
Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To serve, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes, or enjoy straight from the fridge for a firmer texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars keep well in the fridge for several days, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
Can I use a different type of crushed cookie instead of pretzels?
Absolutely! While pretzels add a lovely salty crunch, crushed graham crackers or cookies can be used for a different flavor and texture.
Print
Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars (based on 9×9-inch pan, cut into 4x4 squares) 1x
Description
These Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are a delightful treat combining a crunchy pretzel crust, rich salted caramel layer, and a light, creamy whipped topping. Perfect for satisfying sweet cravings without turning on the oven, this easy dessert is ready in just a few hours and ideal for serving at any casual gathering or as an indulgent snack.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs (crushed pretzels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
For the Creamy Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish to form an even layer.
- Layer the Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the pretzel crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Sprinkle the sea salt on top of the caramel layer.
- Make the Creamy Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks form.
- Assemble the Bars: Spread the whipped cream mixture over the caramel layer in the baking dish, smoothing it out to create an even top layer.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the bars are firm and set.
- Slice and Serve: Once chilled, remove from the refrigerator. Cut into squares and serve. Enjoy your delightful creation!
Notes
- Press the pretzel crust firmly to ensure it holds together well when set.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce or homemade caramel for the best flavor.
- Chill the bars for the full recommended time to achieve the right texture; they should be firm enough to cut easily.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Enhance serving by pairing with vanilla ice cream, coffee, tea, or adding toppings like chocolate sauce, chopped nuts, or sprinkles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: no bake dessert, salted caramel bars, pretzel crust bars, easy caramel dessert, creamy caramel bars, quick dessert, no bake pretzel bars
