You’re in for a treat! These Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars are salty, sweet, crunchy, and irresistibly gooey — no baking required!
🍫🥨 Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars
Ingredients:
For the Base:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup powdered sugar
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels (about 35 caramels)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
🧁 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
- Line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Pretzel Base:
- In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, peanut butter, melted butter, and powdered sugar until well combined.
- Press firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Place in the fridge while making the caramel.
3. Make the Caramel Layer:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and heavy cream.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 2–3 minutes total).
- Pour over pretzel base and spread evenly.
- Chill for 10–15 minutes until slightly firm.
4. Make the Chocolate Topping:
- In another microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and peanut butter.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals until melted and smooth.
- Pour over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
5. Chill & Set:
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or until firm).
- Cut into bars and serve.
🔁 Tips & Variations:
- Crunch boost: Top with extra crushed pretzels or flaky sea salt.
- Nut-free version: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Make ahead: These bars keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze beautifully.
Let me know if you want a gluten-free or vegan variation!