🧈 No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Bites 🧂
Ingredients
For the Base Layer:
1 cup crushed pretzel sticks (about 1½ oz) — aim for coarse crumbs with some small chunks
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons brown sugar, lightly packed
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
For the Caramel Filling:
½ cup high-quality store-bought caramel sauce (or homemade)
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for smoother texture)
Pinch of fine sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating & Finish:
¾ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil (or vegetable shortening)
Flaky sea salt, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pretzel Base:
In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until evenly moistened and clumping slightly. Scoop into 12 equal portions (about 1 tbsp each), then gently press each into a flat, round disc about 1½ inches wide. Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill for 10 minutes to firm up.
2. Assemble the Caramel Layer:
In a small microwave-safe bowl, warm the caramel sauce with heavy cream (if using) for 15–20 seconds. Stir until smooth and pourable. Spoon about ½ teaspoon of caramel onto the center of each chilled pretzel base. Gently spread to cover the surface without going over the edges. Return to fridge for 5 minutes to set slightly.
3. Coat with Chocolate:
Microwave chocolate chips and coconut oil in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until fully melted and glossy. Dip the top half of each caramel-topped pretzel bite into the chocolate, letting excess drip off. Place back on the tray, chocolate-side up.
4. Finish and Chill:
While chocolate is still wet, sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to fully harden the chocolate and set the layers. Serve chilled or at cool room temperature.
Yield: 12 bites
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Total Time: 45 minutes