Description
These Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars combine salty pretzels with rich peanut butter caramel and smooth chocolate ganache for a perfect sweet and salty treat. Crunchy, creamy, and delightfully indulgent, they’re no-bake bars that set in the fridge, making them an easy and crowd-pleasing dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Layer
- 2 cups mini pretzels, crushed
Peanut Butter Caramel Layer
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Chocolate Ganache Layer
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil to ensure easy removal of bars later.
- Form Pretzel Base: Crush the mini pretzels into small pieces using your hands or a rolling pin. Pour the crushed pretzels into the prepared baking dish and press them firmly and evenly to create a solid base layer.
- Make Peanut Butter Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt together the peanut butter, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar while stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once fully melted and smooth, stir in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly and becomes a caramel-like consistency.
- Assemble Peanut Butter Layer: Pour the peanut butter caramel mixture evenly over the pretzel base layer in the baking dish. Spread it out gently to ensure an even coating.
- Prepare Chocolate Ganache: In a separate small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Top with Chocolate: Pour the chocolate ganache over the peanut butter caramel layer, spreading it evenly across the top surface.
- Chill and Set: Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and let the bars chill for at least 2 hours or until fully set and firm.
- Serve: Once chilled, carefully lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment or foil overhang. Cut into 12 equal bars and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure you stir the peanut butter caramel continuously to avoid scorching the sugar mixture.
- For easier cutting, dip your knife in hot water and wipe dry before slicing the bars.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
- Use crunchy or smooth peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
