Step-by-step instructions
- Line a 9×9 inch square pan with parchment paper—this helps you lift the bars out easily later.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the peanut butter, unsalted butter, and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract for that final touch of flavor.
- Add the pretzel sticks to the pan and gently stir until each pretzel is well coated in the caramel mixture.
- Pour everything into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly and pressing down firmly to create a solid base.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour until set. Once firm, cut the bars into squares.
Best ways to enjoy it
To serve your Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars, consider these delicious ideas:
- Dust with a light sprinkle of sea salt for an enhanced salty contrast.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert experience.
- Serve alongside fresh fruit, like strawberries or banana slices, for a refreshing balance.
- Drizzle chocolate sauce over the top for a more indulgent treat.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store your Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Pro chef tips
- Ensure your butter is unsalted to control the saltiness of the bars.
- Stir the mixture continuously while heating to prevent burning.
- If you want an extra crunch, feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the caramel mixture.
- For easy slicing, allow the bars to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting.
Creative twists
- Try substituting the pretzel sticks with crushed graham crackers for a twist on texture.
- Use dark chocolate or white chocolate chips in place of traditional milk chocolate for different flavor profiles.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of your favorite crushed candies or toffee bits on top to elevate the presentation and flavor.
FAQs
What is the preparation time for these bars?
The total preparation time is only about 15 minutes, with an additional hour in the fridge for the bars to set.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! They are perfect for making ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge, and they’ll be ready to serve when you are.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the traditional pretzel sticks for gluten-free pretzel variations to enjoy this dessert without any gluten concerns.
