Chocolate Caramel Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Caramel Layer:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup corn syrup or honey
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Peanut Butter Layer:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Chocolate Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoothness)

Instructions

1. Make the Pretzel Crust:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl until well combined.
   • Press mixture firmly into a lined 9×9-inch pan.
   • Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Caramel Layer:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine condensed milk, brown sugar, butter, corn syrup, and salt.
   • Stir constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes golden (about 10 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Pour over the cooled crust and spread evenly.
   • Chill in fridge for 20–30 minutes until set.
3. Add the Peanut Butter Layer:
   • In a small bowl, mix peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
   • Spread gently over the caramel layer. Chill again for 10–15 minutes.
4. Finish with Chocolate Topping:
   • Melt chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using) in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
   • Pour over the top and spread evenly.
5. Chill & Serve:
   • Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 1 hour until fully set.
   • Cut into bars and enjoy!

Let me know if you’d like a no-bake version or substitutions (e.g., almond butter, dark chocolate).