Get ready to experience a mind-blowing dessert that will make your taste buds dance with pure joy! These Pretzel Peanut Caramel Squares are not just another ordinary treat – they're a symphony of crunchy, sweet, and salty flavors that will have you craving more with every single bite. Imagine a crispy pretzel base, topped with a rich, gooey caramel layer, and finished with a decadent chocolate coating that melts in your mouth. This recipe is so irresistible, you'll want to hide the pan from everyone else – if you can resist eating them all yourself!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 squares
Ingredients
- Mini pretzels
- Peanut butter
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in 1 cup of brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and mix in 1/2 cup of peanut butter until fully incorporated. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
- While the mixture cools, spread a layer of mini pretzels evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking pan, covering the entire surface.
- Once the peanut butter and brown sugar mixture has cooled slightly, pour it over the layer of pretzels, making sure to spread it evenly to cover all the pretzels.
- Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- While the pretzel peanut caramel layer is baking, melt 1 cup of chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- After removing the pan from the oven, immediately pour the melted chocolate over the warm caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Allow the squares to cool at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then transfer to the refrigerator to set for at least 20 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
- Once set, use the parchment overhang to lift the squares out of the pan. Cut into 12 equal squares and serve. Enjoy your Pretzel Peanut Caramel Squares!
Tips
- Use fresh, crisp mini pretzels for the best texture and crunch.
- Watch the caramel carefully while cooking to prevent burning – medium heat is key.
- For a smoother chocolate topping, use high-quality chocolate chips and melt them slowly.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean cutting.
- Let the squares cool completely in the refrigerator to ensure a perfect set and clean cuts.
- For extra flavor, try using dark chocolate or sprinkle sea salt on top before the chocolate sets.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days (if they last that long!).
- For a more intense peanut flavor, use natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
- Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring to prevent the pretzels from becoming soggy.
- Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean, precise cuts when serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
