Sweet, salty, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying, these Caramel Pecan Pretzel Bars are a dessert dream come true! With layers of buttery pretzels, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate, they hit every flavor note. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or when you just need a decadent treat to brighten your day.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
- Sweet & salty harmony: The crushed pretzels and caramel create the ultimate flavor balance.
- Simple yet indulgent: No fancy techniques required, but the result looks and tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile treat: Perfect for gifting, parties, or simply indulging with a cup of coffee.
Ingredients for Caramel Pecan Pretzel Bars
- 2 cups pretzel sticks, crushed 🥨
- 1 cup salted butter, melted 🧈
- 1 cup packed brown sugar 🍬
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk 🥛
- 1 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans 🌰
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 🍫
Necessary Tools
- 8×8-inch baking dish
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
How to Make Caramel Pecan Pretzel Bars
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper to make removing the bars easier.
2. Make the Pretzel Crust
- Combine the crushed pretzels and melted butter in a mixing bowl.
- Stir until the pretzels are evenly coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
3. Cook the Caramel Layer
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
- Heat over medium, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it bubble for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the pretzel crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
4. Add the Pecans
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer, pressing gently to help them stick.
5. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.
6. Add Chocolate
- Remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel.
- Allow the chocolate to sit for a minute to melt, then use a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
7. Cool & Slice
- Let the bars cool completely at room temperature, or speed up the process by chilling them in the refrigerator.
- Once cooled, slice into squares or bars with a sharp knife.
Tips for Success
- Use parchment paper: This makes removing the bars a breeze and prevents sticking.
- Chill for clean slices: Refrigerate before cutting for sharp, neat edges.
- Don’t skip the pecans: They add texture and balance to the sweetness of the caramel.
Variations to Try
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt: Enhance the sweet and salty contrast.
- Swap nuts: Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Extra crunch: Add a layer of crushed pretzels on top of the caramel before the chocolate layer.
Storage Instructions
- Room temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Extend their shelf life to 7-10 days by keeping them chilled.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars in parchment and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making ahead. They store well and taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
What’s the best way to crush pretzels?
Place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them. Aim for small crumbs, but leave a few larger pieces for texture.
Can I use milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?
Absolutely! Use whatever chocolate you prefer—milk, dark, or even white chocolate for a fun twist.
Final Thoughts
Caramel Pecan Pretzel Bars are a simple yet show-stopping dessert that never fails to impress. They’re everything you want in a treat: sweet, salty, crunchy, and rich. Whether you’re making these for a special occasion or just because, they’re guaranteed to delight!
Looking for more indulgent recipes? Try my Salted Caramel Brownies or Nutty Chocolate Bark—both perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth!
Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest or tag me in your photos. I’d love to see how yours turn out! 🍫🌟
