No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars

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A tempting stack of No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars showcasing layers of chocolate, caramel, and pretzels.

Appetizers and Snacks, Desserts, Recipes

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No-Bake Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars are a delightful dessert that effortlessly marries the sweetness of caramel and chocolate with the salty crunch of pretzels. In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this treat that requires no baking, offering a perfect balance of gooey, crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors.

Ingredients:

Base Layer:

  • 3/4 Cups milk chocolate chips, melted
  • 2 Cups mini pretzel twists
  • 1/2 Cup salted peanuts

Caramel Layer:

  • 1 3/4 Cups Kraft Caramel bits
  • 2 Tablespoons whole milk

Topping:

  • 1/4 Cup milk chocolate chips, melted

How to Make Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:

  • Begin by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures that your bars can be easily lifted off the sheet once set.

2. Create the Chocolate Base:

  • Melt 3/4 cup of milk chocolate chips. This can be done using a double boiler or by microwaving in 15-second increments, stirring between each interval to ensure smooth melting.
  • Once melted, pour the chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Arrange the mini pretzel twists over the melted chocolate, ensuring an even spread. Fill any gaps with salted peanuts. Gently press the pretzels and peanuts into the chocolate to make them adhere.
  • Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator to allow the chocolate to set while you prepare the caramel layer.

3. Prepare the Caramel Layer:

  • In a double boiler or using a microwave in 20-second intervals, melt the Kraft Caramel bits along with 2 tablespoons of whole milk. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.
  • Allow the caramel to cool slightly, letting it thicken just a bit for easier spreading.
  • Once thickened, spread the caramel evenly over the pretzel and peanut layer, ensuring all gaps are filled.
  • Return the baking sheet to the refrigerator to allow the caramel layer to set.

4. Add the Chocolate Drizzle:

  • Melt the remaining 1/4 cup of milk chocolate chips in a similar fashion as before.
  • Transfer the melted chocolate to a small plastic bag. Snip off a small corner of the bag to create a makeshift piping bag.
  • Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer in a zig-zag motion, creating an aesthetically pleasing pattern.
  • Place the baking sheet back in the refrigerator for the final setting.
  • Once all layers are set and firm, remove the baking sheet from the refrigerator.
  • Using a sharp knife, cut the layered dessert into 16 even squares. Enjoy your no-bake caramel pretzel crack bars.

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