Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars (Printable View)
Sweet caramel, pretzels, and chocolate create irresistible layered bars with a whisper of sea salt.
# Ingredient List:
→ Base Layer
01 -
2 cups pretzels, crushed
→ Caramel Layer
02 -
1 cup unsalted butter
03 -
1 cup packed brown sugar
04 -
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
→ Topping
05 -
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
06 -
Sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
# Preparation Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs the sides for easy removal.
02 -
Distribute the crushed pretzels evenly across the base of the prepared baking dish.
03 -
In a medium saucepan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Incorporate packed brown sugar and stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, approximately 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract.
04 -
Evenly pour the hot caramel mixture over the crushed pretzels, ensuring full coverage.
05 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until caramel is bubbling and golden brown.
06 -
Remove dish from oven and immediately scatter semisweet chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Let stand for several minutes to allow chips to soften, then use a spatula to gently spread chocolate in an even layer.
07 -
Optional: Sprinkle sea salt evenly over the melted chocolate layer. Allow to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is fully set.
08 -
Once fully cooled and set, lift the mixture from the dish using the parchment overhang, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into bars.
# Supplementary Details:
01 -
For clean edges, use a warm knife when slicing the bars after chocolate has set.