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Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars

Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars That Will Make You Smile

These Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are a delightful fusion of sweet and salty goodness that never fails to win hearts.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 57 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 4 cups Pretzels Provides a crunchy texture and salty contrast to the sweetness.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Adds richness and helps create a smooth caramel; substitute with margarine for a dairy-free option.
For the Caramel
  • 1 cup Brown Sugar Contributes sweetness and depth of flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
  • 1 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk Ensures a creamy, rich caramel; no direct substitution recommended for texture.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips Adds a sweet, melty layer on top; dark chocolate can be used for a less sweet option.
  • 1 teaspoon Sea Salt Enhances flavors and provides a finishing touch; flaky sea salt is preferred for texture.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch Baking Dish
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, mixing well until fully combined and smooth, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk, stirring continuously until the caramel is glossy and free from any lumps.
  3. Carefully spread a generous layer of approximately 4 cups of pretzels evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour the warm caramel mixture over the pretzels, ensuring they are well coated. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips evenly over the caramel layer.
  4. Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until the chocolate chips are melted and shiny.
  5. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. For quicker cooling, place it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, then cut into squares or rectangles.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 100mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Refrigerating them extends freshness while keeping that delectable texture.

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