No-Bake Pretzel Bars with Salted Caramel

If you love desserts that mix a salty crunch with rich sweetness, these bars are an absolute game changer. They were created during a random weeknight when I wanted something indulgent without heating up the oven, and they instantly became a family favorite. A few  pretzels, some  caramel, and a handful of  chocolate chips turned into a treat that feels fancy but requires almost zero effort.

Their charm comes from the combination of textures: crisp pretzels, soft caramel, and silky chocolate. Stacked together, they make a dessert that looks impressive, cuts beautifully, and always disappears first at potlucks, bake sales, family get-togethers, or even casual movie nights.

The best part? You probably already have everything you need in your pantry.

Ingredients

Ingredient Amount Notes
Mini pretzels (crushed with some larger pieces) 3 cups Gives crunch and structure
Semi-sweet chocolate chips 1½ cups Divided for layering
Peanut butter ½ cup Smooth or chunky, split between layers
Soft caramels 1½ cups (≈11 oz) Unwrapped
Heavy cream or milk 2 tbsp Helps caramel melt smoothly
Butter 2 tbsp Adds richness
Flaky sea salt To taste For finishing

Instructions