What are the best ingredients for no bake caramel pretzel crack bars?

The best no bake caramel pretzel crack bars start with a solid trifecta: crushed pretzels , nut or seed butter , and Medjool dates . This combo creates a chewy, salty-sweet base that’s easy to blend and doesn’t require baking. For added richness, top with a melted chocolate and coconut oil layer. If you're craving more of a gooey center, try adding a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk before layering on the chocolate.

Can I make no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars with condensed milk?

Yes! For those who enjoy a creamier, caramel-forward texture, adding condensed milk is a fantastic twist. This turns your bars into ultra-rich no-bake salted caramel pretzel bars with condensed milk , ideal for festive events or indulgent holiday trays. Just pour a thin layer of sweetened condensed milk over the base before adding your chocolate topping. Chill thoroughly to ensure the layers set properly.

How do I store no bake chocolate caramel pretzel bars?

These no bake chocolate caramel pretzel bars store like a dream: - Fridge: Keep in a sealed container for up to 7 days. - Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw for 10 minutes before serving. If you’re using ingredients like peanut butter or condensed milk , note that they may slightly soften at room temperature—so plan your storage accordingly.

What’s the difference between caramel pecan pretzel bars and peanut bars?

Great question! It comes down to nut selection and flavor profile : - Caramel pecan pretzel bars offer a buttery, rich crunch from pecans and are often topped with flaky sea salt or a caramel drizzle. - No bake caramel pretzel peanut bars tend to be more nostalgic and kid-friendly, with a creamier texture and classic peanut butter flavor. Both are amazing options for customizing your base recipe, especially if you’re making multiple versions for a party tray.

Can I make 3 ingredient no bake salted caramel pretzel bars with just dates, oats, and peanut butter?

Absolutely! While the full recipe uses more ingredients for enhanced flavor and texture, you can totally simplify it into 3 ingredient no bake salted caramel pretzel bars by blending: 1- Pitted Medjool dates 2- Oats 3- Peanut butter This minimalist version skips the chocolate layer and still delivers chewy, snackable satisfaction. Great for busy weekdays or quick after-school bites.

No Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars – Easy Sweet & Salty Treat

Name: No Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (68g) crushed pretzels (use gluten-free if needed); 1 cup (80g) rolled oats; ¾ cup (150g) Medjool dates, pitted; 6 tablespoons (96g) nut or seed butter (almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter); 2 tablespoons (40g) brown rice syrup (or honey for non-vegan); 1–2 tablespoons (15–30ml) non-dairy milk, only if needed; 1 cup (175g) dairy-free chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon (5ml) coconut oil; Optional toppings: crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or chopped pecans

Description

These No Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars are sweet, salty, crunchy, and unbelievably easy to make — no oven required! A nutty oat-pretzel crust is topped with rich chocolate and caramel-inspired flavor, making this a must-have treat for holidays, snack trays, and last-minute cravings. Naturally vegan, freezer-friendly, and customizable with fun flavor twists.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

2 cups (68g) crushed pretzels (use gluten-free if needed)
1 cup (80g) rolled oats
¾ cup (150g) Medjool dates, pitted
6 tablespoons (96g) nut or seed butter (almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter)
2 tablespoons (40g) brown rice syrup (or honey for non-vegan)
1–2 tablespoons (15–30ml) non-dairy milk, only if needed

For the Topping:

1 cup (175g) dairy-free chocolate chips
1 teaspoon (5ml) coconut oil
Optional toppings: crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or chopped pecans

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Instructions

Step 1: Create the Base Layer

In a food processor, combine crushed pretzels and rolled oats. Pulse until the mixture resembles a coarse flour.
Add in the pitted dates, nut or seed butter, and brown rice syrup.
Process until the mixture begins to clump and form a sticky dough.
Test texture: pinch some dough. If it doesn’t hold, add non-dairy milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it sticks.

Step 2: Press the Crust

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy lifting.
Transfer the dough into the pan. Using a spatula or clean hands, press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate-Caramel Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil.
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the base layer. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Garnish and Chill

Sprinkle crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or chopped pecans over the chocolate layer (optional but recommended for that salted caramel crunch vibe).
Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is set.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once fully chilled, remove the bars using the parchment overhang.
Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing for clean cuts.
Serve chilled or room temp—your call!

Notes

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
Freezer: Wrap individually and store for up to 2 months. Perfect for batch prepping holiday treats.
Pro Tip: These bars taste even better on Day 2 once the flavors settle.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Dessert, Snack
Method: No Bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: Per Bar
Calories: 164 kcal
Sugar: 14.7g
Sodium: 21mg
Fat: 7.3g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 2.9g
Protein: 3.6g