Description

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Caramel Bars are the ultimate sweet and salty dessert—made with a crunchy pretzel base, rich peanut butter caramel filling, and an optional chocolate topping. Whether you choose the baked or no-bake version, they’re ridiculously simple to make, incredibly addictive, and perfect for holidays, parties, or just because.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Crust:

2 cups crushed pretzels
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
¼ cup brown sugar

Peanut Butter Caramel Layer:

1 bag (11 oz) soft caramel candies
2 tbsp heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
½ cup creamy peanut butter
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of sea salt

Chocolate Topping (Optional):

½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
1 tbsp coconut oil or butter

Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Pretzel Base:

Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper.
Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.

Step 2 – Make Peanut Butter Caramel:

In a saucepan over low heat, melt the caramels with heavy cream.
Once smooth, remove from heat and stir in peanut butter, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Pour caramel mixture over chilled pretzel crust. Spread evenly.

Step 3 – Add Chocolate Topping (Optional):

Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in a microwave or double boiler.
Drizzle or layer chocolate over the caramel.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt for a finishing touch.

Step 4 – Chill & Serve:

Refrigerate bars for 2–3 hours, or until fully set.
Lift out of the pan and cut into 12–16 squares.
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week

Notes

Use natural peanut butter for less sugar and cleaner flavor.
For a twist, add espresso powder to the caramel for mocha notes.
Use gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free version.

Add festive sprinkles for holiday-themed bars.

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 10 min