Quick No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel (Print Version)

Salty pretzel base, caramel layer, and creamy whipped topping make a perfect sweet-salty snack.

# Ingredients:

→ Pretzel Crust

01 - 2 cups crushed pretzels
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Caramel Layer

04 - 1 cup caramel sauce
05 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

→ Creamy Topping

06 - 1 cup heavy cream
07 - 1/2 cup powdered sugar
08 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Steps:

01 - In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined. Firmly press into the base of a greased 9 by 9 inch baking dish, ensuring an even layer.
02 - Pour caramel sauce evenly over the pretzel crust. Smooth with a spatula, then sprinkle sea salt across the entire surface.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually incorporate powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until stiff peaks develop.
04 - Spread the whipped cream mixture on top of the caramel layer, smoothing it to create an even finish.
05 - Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours, or until bars are firm and fully set.
06 - Once chilled, remove from refrigerator. Cut into squares and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Chilling is essential to achieve clean, stable cuts and to fully set the layers.