Caramel Pretzel Cookie Bars Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, especially when it involves decadent caramel and crunchy pretzels. Our Caramel Pretzel Cookie Bars Recipe is an irresistible treat perfect for family gatherings, seasonal occasions, or simply a delightful baking project with your little sous chefs. The rich, buttery layers of cookie dough meld seamlessly with the chewy caramel and the satisfying crunch of pretzels, making these bars a unique twist on your standard cookie recipe. The warmth of the caramel, the golden hues of baked goodness, and the delightful textures will give you all the cozy, homey feels you crave.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 16 bars
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pretzels, roughly crushed
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies, melted
• Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the crushed pretzels and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
7. Press about two-thirds of the dough into the prepared baking pan, smoothing it into an even layer.
8. Pour the melted caramel over the dough, spreading it out gently.
9. Dollop the remaining dough over the caramel layer, pressing lightly. Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bars are golden brown and set. Allow them to cool completely in the pan.
11. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Helpful Tips

For an easier caramel layer, you can use a ready-made caramel sauce instead of melting caramels. Feel free to add a handful of nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar slightly and add more pretzels for an extra salty kick.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Caramel Pretzel Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pairings

These bars pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a festive twist, serve them with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream. They also make a delightful dessert for a casual family dinner, complementing savory foods like roasted chicken or a hearty stew.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into your kitchen, one recipe at a time. We hope these Caramel Pretzel Cookie Bars bring smiles and delicious moments to your home. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your results with us. Spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family, and inspire them to bake along with you. Explore more of our culinary delights, follow Zynahz on social media, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for the latest recipes and kitchen tips!