Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, creating an overhang on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out later.
Spread the crushed pretzels evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
Stir in the brown sugar and continue stirring until the mixture is smooth and bubbly, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the vanilla extract, stirring to combine.
Pour this luscious caramel mixture over the pretzels in the baking dish, evenly spreading it out.
Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden brown.
Take it out of the oven and sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Allow them to soften for a few minutes.
Use a spatula to spread the soft chocolate evenly over the caramel.
If desired, sprinkle sea salt over the melted chocolate for that sweet and salty contrast.
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator until the chocolate is set.
Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the baking dish. Transfer them to a cutting board and cut into bars of your desired size. Enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are delightful on their own, but here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your experience:

Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa or coffee for a cozy treat.
For a festive touch, drizzle some white chocolate on top before cutting them into bars.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can also freeze them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to a month. Just let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

Helpful cooking tips

For easier cleanup, spray your baking dish with cooking spray before adding parchment paper. This helps it adhere better.
If you prefer a thicker chocolate layer, add more chocolate chips!
Letting the bars cool completely ensures a cleaner cut when serving.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:

Add crushed nuts (like pecans or macadamias) for an extra crunch.
Experiment with different types of pretzels, such as chocolate-covered ones.
Try adding a layer of melted peanut butter on top of the chocolate for a delightful twist.

FAQ

How long does it take to prepare these bars?

The total time for preparation and baking is about 30 minutes, plus additional cooling time.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Yes! You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.

What’s the best way to cut these bars once set?

Use a sharp knife and warm it slightly under hot water for smoother cuts—this helps prevent the chocolate from cracking.

Can I add other toppings?

Absolutely! Consider adding sprinkles, shredded coconut, or even crushed candy bars for more fun variations.

How do I know when the caramel is done baking?

When you see the edges bubbling and a nice golden brown color, your caramel is perfectly baked!