Get ready to satiate your sweet tooth with salted caramel pretzel crunch bars. An irresistible blend of sweet and salty with an added crunch, these bars are a perfect treat for any occasion. The creamy caramel, balanced by the saltiness of pretzels, and embraced by a tender crust, is sure to win hearts. The recipe is simple, easy to follow, and the result is absolutely worth it.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly available in most households. However, salted caramel sauce may not be readily available in some kitchens. It can be found in the dessert toppings section of your local supermarket. If you prefer, you can also make it at home using sugar, butter, heavy cream, and salt.
Crucial Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Unsalted butter: Used for the crust. It lends a rich, creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
All-purpose flour: The base of the crust, it gives structure to the bars.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
Salt: Balances the sweetness of the bars.
Egg yolk: Gives richness and binds the crust ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: Provides a pleasant aroma and a mild, sweet flavor.
Salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient. It gives the bars their signature sweet and salty taste.
Pretzels: Adds a crunchy texture and salty flavor, complementing the sweetness of the caramel.
Semi-sweet chocolate: Topping for the bars. It adds a layer of richness and a nice contrast to the saltiness.
Coconut oil: Mixed with chocolate for a smoother and shinier finish.
Sea salt: A final topping to enhance the sweet and salty balance.
One reader, Edythe Bandy says:
These salted caramel pretzel crunch bars are a game-changer! The combination of sweet and salty flavors is absolutely divine. The crunch from the pretzels adds a delightful texture. I couldn't resist having just one. They're a hit with everyone who tries them!
Essential Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper with enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the bars from the pan. Set aside.
Prepare the crust: Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy. Add the flour, sugar, salt, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and beat on high speed for 2 minutes until crumbly. Press the mixture tightly into the prepared pan.
Bake the crust: Press pretzel pieces evenly on top of the crust. Bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool completely before adding the caramel.
Prepare the caramel: Wait for the caramel to cool until it slightly thickens. Pour or spoon the caramel over the cooled crust. Allow it to cool and set completely before topping with chocolate.
Melt the chocolate: Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave in 15-second increments, stopping and stirring until completely melted. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel.
Top with sea salt: Sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate. Place the pan in the refrigerator to cool completely.
Cut into squares: Lift the parchment paper out of the pan using the overhang on the sides and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
How To Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
These pretzel crunch bars are stuffed with crunchy pretzels, layered with salted caramel, and topped with semi-sweet chocolate for an unforgettable dessert.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 10tbspunsalted butter,(plus 2 tbsp), slightly soft
- 1cupall-purpose flour,(plus 2tbsp), spoon & leveled
- ¼cupgranulated sugar
- ¼tspsalt
- 1large egg yolk,at room temperature
- 1tsppure vanilla extract
- 1cupsalted caramel sauce
- 1cuppretzels,chopped
- 6ozsemi-sweet chocolate,chopped
- 2tspcoconut oil
- sea salt,optional
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8 or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper with enough overhang on the sides to easily remove the bars from the pan. Set aside.
-
Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter on high speed until smooth and creamy. Add the flour, sugar, salt, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and beat on high speed for 2 minutes until crumbly.
-
Press tightly into prepared pan. Press pretzel pieces evenly on top. Bake for 20 minutes. Allow to cool completely before adding the caramel.
-
Prepare caramel and wait for it to cool until it slightly thickens. Pour/spoon over crust. Allow to cool and set completely before topping with chocolate.
-
Melt the chocolate and coconut oil in the microwave in 15-second increments, stopping and stirring until completely melted. Pour over cooled caramel. Top with sea salt. Stick in the refrigerator to cool completely.
-
Lift the parchment paper out of the pan using the overhang on the sides and cut into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Calories: 281.82kcal
- Fat: 14.21g
- Saturated Fat: 8.52g
- Trans Fat: 0.19g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.25g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.63g
- Carbohydrates: 40.73g
- Fiber: 2.25g
- Sugar: 17.78g
- Protein: 3.03g
- Cholesterol: 20.54mg
- Sodium: 167.68mg
- Calcium: 21.99mg
- Potassium: 143.83mg
- Iron: 1.61mg
- Vitamin A: 46.86µg
- Vitamin C: 0.24mg
Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
When making the salted caramel sauce, it's important to keep a close eye on the sugar as it melts. It can quickly go from a beautiful amber color to burnt. As soon as it reaches the right color, remove it from the heat and carefully add the cream and butter. This will stop the cooking process and prevent the caramel from burning. Also, when pressing the pretzel pieces into the dough, try to press them in as evenly as possible. This will ensure that every bite of your salted caramel pretzel crunch bars has a bit of pretzel in it.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Prep ahead: Make the salted caramel sauce and crust in advance to save time. You can store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the bars.
Efficient workspace: Organize your ingredients and tools before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and reduce the chances of making mistakes.
Use quality ingredients: Quality ingredients often require less manipulation and can enhance the overall flavor of the bars.
Chill for setting: After assembling the bars, chilling them in the refrigerator will help the layers set faster, saving you time.
Sharp knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares for a clean and neat presentation.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you wait for the bars to bake and cool. This will prevent a big mess at the end.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the bars, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour: This substitution is ideal for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease, allowing them to enjoy the bars without any adverse effects.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative to granulated sugar, providing a subtle caramel-like flavor to the bars.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used to enhance the overall flavor of the bars, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
large egg yolk - Substitute with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water: This vegan-friendly alternative can help bind the ingredients together, similar to an egg yolk.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can impart a unique and delightful flavor to the bars, complementing the other ingredients.
salted caramel sauce - Substitute with homemade date caramel: A homemade date caramel can offer a healthier alternative, providing natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
pretzels - Substitute with rice cakes: Crushed rice cakes can provide a similar crunchy texture to the bars, while offering a gluten-free alternative.
semi-sweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate can be used as a substitute for semi-sweet chocolate, offering a richer and more intense chocolate flavor.
coconut oil - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for coconut oil, providing a rich and creamy flavor to the bars.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can be used to add a subtle and unique flavor to the bars, enhancing the overall taste.
How to Beautifully Present This Delightful Treat
Elevate the plating: When presenting the salted caramel pretzel crunch bars, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement on the plate. Consider using a minimalist approach to showcase the layers of the dessert, allowing the colors and textures to stand out.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance to the presentation by delicately placing edible flowers, such as pansies or violas, on the plate. The vibrant colors of the flowers will complement the rich tones of the salted caramel and chocolate, enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a fine-tipped utensil to create intricate drizzles of salted caramel sauce and melted chocolate on the plate. This technique adds a sophisticated touch to the presentation, showcasing precision and attention to detail.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to highlight the dessert. By allowing areas of the plate to remain free from components, you can draw attention to the focal point of the dish, creating a balanced and refined presentation.
Consider geometric plating: Explore geometric plating techniques to arrange the salted caramel pretzel crunch bars in a visually striking manner. Emphasize clean lines and symmetrical patterns to showcase a modern and innovative presentation style.
Add a dusting of cocoa powder: Before serving, lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of cocoa powder to introduce a subtle hint of earthy flavor and enhance the overall visual appeal of the dessert.
Use tempered chocolate shards: Incorporate delicate, tempered chocolate shards as an artistic element on the plate. The shards can be strategically placed to add height and dimension, creating a captivating presentation that exudes culinary artistry.
Employ precision in portioning: Pay careful attention to portion sizes, ensuring that each salted caramel pretzel crunch bar is meticulously cut and presented with uniformity, reflecting a commitment to culinary excellence.
Highlight textural contrast: Emphasize the contrast in textures by arranging the dessert in a way that showcases the crunchy pretzel layer, velvety caramel, and smooth chocolate, creating a visually dynamic and enticing presentation.
Embrace asymmetrical plating: Emulate the principles of asymmetry in the plating design, allowing for a more organic and visually stimulating presentation that captures the essence of modern culinary artistry.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting.
- Square baking pan: Used for baking and shaping the bars.
- Parchment paper: Prevents the bars from sticking to the pan and makes for easy cleanup.
- Handheld or stand mixer: Used to mix and beat the ingredients for the crust.
- Paddle attachment: An attachment for the mixer used for mixing and beating the crust ingredients.
- Microwave: Used for melting the chocolate and coconut oil.
- Refrigerator: Used to cool and set the bars.
How To Properly Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
- These salted caramel pretzel crunch bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Make sure to separate the layers with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- For longer storage, you can freeze these heavenly bars for up to 3 months. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw the bars at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, you can store the bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before biting into them, as the caramel and chocolate will be quite hard when chilled.
- To maintain the best flavor and texture, avoid storing these bars in a humid environment, as the pretzels may lose their crunch and become stale.
- If you want to get creative, try wrapping these bars in festive packaging and giving them as gifts to your loved ones. They'll be thrilled to receive such a delicious homemade treat!
How To Reheat Leftover Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Reheat in the oven: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). place the leftover salted caramel pretzel crunch bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolate and caramel are melted and the bars are heated through. this method will help restore the crispiness of the pretzel base.
Microwave reheating: if you're short on time, you can reheat the bars in the microwave. place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 10-second intervals, checking after each interval to avoid overheating. the chocolate and caramel will melt quickly, so be careful not to overheat the bars, as this may cause the pretzel base to become soggy.
Room temperature: if you prefer a softer texture, simply allow the leftover bars to come to room temperature before enjoying them. this method works well if you don't mind a slightly softer pretzel base and want to savor the flavors of the salted caramel and chocolate.
Freeze and thaw: for a cool and refreshing treat, consider freezing your leftover bars. wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the freezer. when you're ready to enjoy a bar, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. this method will result in a chewier texture, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Fascinating Trivia About Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Salted caramel pretzel crunch bars are a delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors, making them a popular treat for many.
Is Making Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars at Home Cost-Effective?
The salted caramel pretzel crunch bars recipe can be cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as flour, sugar, pretzels, and chocolate, are commonly found in most kitchens. The cost may vary based on the quality of ingredients used, but overall, it's an affordable treat. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20. Rating: 9/10.
Are Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This recipe for salted caramel pretzel crunch bars is undeniably delicious, but it's not particularly healthy. The main ingredients - butter, flour, sugar, caramel sauce, and chocolate - are all high in calories, fat, and sugar. While the pretzels do add a bit of crunch and a touch of salt, they don't contribute much in terms of nutrition. Consuming these bars in excess could lead to weight gain and other health issues associated with a high-fat, high-sugar diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar in the crust, or replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Use a sugar-free or low-sugar caramel sauce, or make your own using dates or coconut sugar as a natural sweetener
- Opt for dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or above) instead of semi-sweet chocolate, as it contains more antioxidants and less sugar
- Add some chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the topping for a boost of healthy fats and protein
- Cut the bars into smaller portions to encourage mindful eating and portion control
Editor's Opinion: Why Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars Are a Must-Try
This salted caramel pretzel crunch bars recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the pretzels. The buttery crust provides a perfect base for the layers of caramel and chocolate, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The addition of sea salt adds a delightful contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile. When prepared with care, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth.
Enhance Your Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Appetizer and Main Course Pairings to Complement Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars
Why trust this Salted Caramel Pretzel Crunch Bars Recipe:
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, featuring a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. The combination of buttery pretzels, rich salted caramel sauce, and decadent semi-sweet chocolate creates an irresistible treat. The step-by-step instructions ensure foolproof execution, and the use of high-quality ingredients promises a delicious outcome. Trust the rave reviews from our community of home cooks who have successfully recreated and enjoyed these crunch bars. Indulge in the delightful textures and flavors of this delightful dessert, and you'll understand why this recipe is a must-try.
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