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To make No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge, you will need: - 2 cups crushed pretzels - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 1 cup sweetened condensed milk - 2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet) - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping) - 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade) These ingredients blend to create a sweet and salty treat that everyone will love. You can easily swap some ingredients if needed: - Use gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free option. - Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. - Try maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor. - If you don't have sweetened condensed milk, use a homemade version or evaporated milk mixed with sugar. These swaps keep the fun while fitting your needs. Make sure to have these tools ready: - A large mixing bowl for your pretzel crust. - A medium saucepan to cook the caramel mixture. - A microwave-safe bowl for melting the chocolate. - A lined 9x9-inch baking pan to hold your fudge. - A spatula for spreading the layers evenly. With the right tools, you can make this fudge with ease. To start, you need to crush the pretzels. Place them in a bag and use a rolling pin. Aim for small pieces, not powder. In a large bowl, mix the crushed pretzels with melted butter. Stir until every pretzel piece gets coated. Next, take a lined 9x9-inch baking pan. Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom. Make it compact and even. This will be your crust, and it adds a nice crunch. Now, let’s make the caramel. In a medium saucepan, add the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Heat over medium. Stir often to avoid burning. Once it gently boils, let it bubble for about 2 minutes. Do not stir during this time. After two minutes, take the pan off the heat. Add in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and caramel sauce. Stir well until it’s smooth. This mixture is rich and flavorful, perfect for our fudge. For the chocolate layer, take a microwave-safe bowl. Add the chocolate chips to the bowl. Microwave in 30-second bursts. Stir after each burst. Keep going until the chocolate is smooth. Be careful not to overheat it. Now, pour the caramel mixture over the pretzel crust. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Then, pour the melted chocolate on top. Use the spatula again to spread it evenly. Before chilling, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top. This enhances the sweet and salty flavor. Place the entire pan in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, until it sets. Once set, lift the fudge out using the parchment paper. Cut it into squares or rectangles. Enjoy your delicious No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge! When making No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge, avoid these common mistakes: - Using warm butter: Melted butter should be cool before mixing with pretzels. Warm butter can make the crust too greasy. - Not packing the brown sugar: Make sure to pack the brown sugar tightly. This helps create a rich caramel layer. - Overcooking the caramel mixture: Boil just until it bubbles. Overcooking can lead to a grainy texture. - Skipping the chilling time: Letting the fudge chill is key. Don't rush this step; it helps the layers set well. Layering makes this fudge special. Here’s how to do it right: - Press the crust firmly: Use a spatula or your hands to press the crushed pretzels tightly. This forms a solid base. - Spread caramel evenly: Pour the caramel mixture gently. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly. This helps balance the flavors. - Melt chocolate slowly: Melt the chocolate in short bursts. Stir well after each interval to keep it smooth. - Add salt on top: A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavor and adds a nice touch. Great presentation makes your fudge look even more tempting. Here are some tips: - Use a decorative platter: A fun platter can make your fudge stand out. - Drizzle extra caramel: Drizzling more caramel on top adds elegance and flavor. - Garnish with sea salt: A little sea salt on top gives a delicious contrast to the sweetness. - Cut into uniform pieces: For a neat look, cut the fudge into even squares or rectangles. {{image_2}} You can switch the pretzels for other snacks. Try crushed graham crackers or cookies for a new flavor. They add a nice crunch too. Just keep the same amount, two cups. This change can make the fudge taste different and fun. Nuts can add a great crunch and taste. I recommend using chopped pecans or walnuts. You can also try toasting them for extra flavor. Sprinkle them on top of the fudge before it sets. You can even add toppings like mini marshmallows or sprinkles. These will give colorful pops and make it look festive. You have options with chocolate. Use dark chocolate for a richer taste. White chocolate can create a sweeter fudge. If you like milk chocolate, stick with that. Each type will change how your fudge tastes. Have fun experimenting and find your favorite mix! To keep your no-bake salted caramel pretzel fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. This prevents moisture from ruining its texture. You can layer parchment paper between the fudge squares to avoid sticking. Always keep the fudge in a cool, dark place, like your pantry or refrigerator. When stored properly, the fudge lasts about two weeks at room temperature. If you keep it in the fridge, it can last for up to four weeks. However, I recommend enjoying it sooner for the best taste and texture! If you want to keep your fudge for longer, freezing is a great option. Cut the fudge into squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then place the wrapped fudge into a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Yes, you can make this fudge vegan. To do this, swap the butter with a vegan butter substitute. Use coconut milk instead of sweetened condensed milk. For the chocolate chips, select dairy-free options. Choose a vegan caramel sauce or make your own with coconut cream and maple syrup. These changes keep the flavor while making it plant-based. To check if your fudge is set, touch it gently. It should feel firm and not sticky. If it still feels soft, give it more chilling time. Usually, two hours is enough, but sometimes longer is needed. Once set, the fudge will hold its shape when cut into squares. This fudge pairs well with many treats. Serve it with fresh fruit like strawberries or apples for a sweet contrast. You can also offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a fun twist, try it with coffee or hot chocolate. Each bite will be a new delight! This blog post guided you through making No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge. We covered essential ingredients, substitutions, and the necessary equipment. We detailed easy steps from preparing the crust to chilling the fudge. Plus, I shared tips to avoid common mistakes and enhance presentation. Lastly, I outlined variations and smart storage practices. Remember, having fun makes cooking better. Enjoy your tasty treats!

No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge

Indulge in the ultimate treat with this No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge! Combining the perfect balance of sweet and salty, this easy recipe uses simple ingredients to create a delicious dessert. With just a few steps, you'll make a creamy caramel layer on a crunchy pretzel crust, topped with rich chocolate. Dive into this decadent delight and impress your friends and family! Click to explore the full recipe and satisfy your sweet cravings!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups crushed pretzels

1 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 cup sweetened condensed milk

2 cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for topping)

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels and melted butter until the pretzels are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan to form the crust.

    In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Allow it to boil for about 2 minutes without stirring.

      Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and caramel sauce until smooth and well-combined.

        Pour the caramel mixture over the pretzel crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.

          In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth and completely melted.

            Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.

              Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top before placing the fudge in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 2 hours, or until set.

                Once set, lift the fudge out of the pan using the parchment paper, and cut it into squares or rectangles for serving.

                  Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 2 hrs 20 mins | Servings: 16 squares

                    - Presentation Tips: For a stunning presentation, serve the fudge squares on a decorative platter and drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an added touch of flavor.