Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars (Print version)
Crunchy pretzels, melted chocolate, salted peanuts, and chewy caramel set into easy no-bake dessert bars.
# Ingredients:
For the bars
01 -
1 1/4 cups (225 g) milk chocolate chips, divided
02 -
2 cups (85 g) mini pretzel twists
03 -
1/2 cup (70 g) salted roasted peanuts
04 -
1 3/4 cups (about 310 g) caramel bits or soft caramel candies
05 -
2 tablespoons whole milk or heavy cream
06 -
1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt, optional
# Instructions:
01 -
Line a 9x9-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on two sides for easy lifting.
02 -
Melt 1 cup of the chocolate chips in 15-second microwave bursts, stirring between each, until smooth. Spread into an even layer in the prepared pan.
03 -
Arrange the pretzels over the soft chocolate and scatter the peanuts into the gaps. Press gently so the pieces stick. Chill for 10 minutes.
04 -
Combine the caramel bits and milk or cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 20-second bursts, stirring well, until smooth. Let cool for 3-5 minutes.
05 -
Spoon the caramel over the pretzel layer and spread it into the gaps with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon. Refrigerate for 45-60 minutes, until firm.
06 -
Melt the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel. Sprinkle with flaky salt, chill 15 minutes more, then lift out and cut into 16 bars.
# Good to know:
01 -
Best served chilled or just slightly softened at room temperature.
02 -
Use parchment overhang so the set slab lifts out without breaking.
03 -
Nutrition is an estimate per bar.