Why are they called "crack" bars?

Because they’re addictively delicious and often “crack” into rustic, uneven pieces once chilled — similar to candy bark. The name also hints at how hard it is to stop at just one. 😅

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pretzels and double-check your chocolate chips and vanilla extract for gluten-free certification. The caramel layer is naturally GF. ✅

Do I have to bake them?

Not necessarily. Some recipes include a short bake (5–7 minutes) to help set the caramel, but they can be made as a no-bake treat if you boil the caramel long enough on the stovetop. 🔥

Why didn’t my caramel set properly?

You may have undercooked the caramel. Be sure to boil the butter and brown sugar mixture for at least 3 minutes at a full boil , stirring constantly. It should thicken slightly and become glossy. ⏳

Can I freeze caramel pretzel crack bars?

Absolutely! These bars freeze beautifully for up to 2 months . Just layer with parchment to prevent sticking and store in a freezer-safe container. ❄️

Can I swap white sugar for brown sugar?

Technically yes, but brown sugar gives you a richer, chewier caramel. White sugar lacks the molasses content that makes the classic version so satisfying. Stick with brown for best results! 🍯

Caramel Pretzel Crack Bars – Easy Sweet & Salty Snack ❤️

Description

These caramel pretzel crack bars are the ultimate sweet-meets-salty treat. With crushed pretzels, gooey homemade caramel, and melted chocolate, they’re crunchy, chewy, and wildly addictive. Perfect for parties, potlucks, or a late-night snack fix — and they’re freezer-friendly, too!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

3 cups crushed pretzels
(Optional) 6–8 graham crackers for layering under pretzels

For the Caramel Layer:

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Topping:

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
(Optional) ¼ cup white chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or toffee bits

Garnish (optional):

Sea salt flakes
Chopped pecans or almonds
Crushed candy canes (seasonal)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease or spray.
Spread crushed pretzels evenly on the bottom.
Make caramel: Melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Bring to a boil and stir continuously for 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
Pour caramel over pretzels. Optionally, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over warm caramel. Let sit for 2–3 minutes until melted, then spread evenly.
Chill in fridge for 1–2 hours or freeze for 30–40 minutes until firm.
Break or slice into pieces and serve!

Notes

Use parchment to prevent sticking
You can skip the oven bake if you let caramel boil longer
Perfect make-ahead dessert
Mix and match toppings for holidays or themes

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-bake or short bake
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 220 kcal
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 110mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg