Mouthwatering Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Bars

As seen on: Delicious Dessert Recipes

You get a sweet and salty combo in every caramel pretzel bar bite. All you need are a handful of simple things—pretzels, caramel you make at home, chocolate—and you’ll have layered bars in no time. They’re awesome for parties or wrapping up as a gift.

emilyscooks.com
Shared By Emily
Last revised on Thu, 17 Jul 2025 18:13:30 GMT
Three caramel-smothered pretzel bars stacked, sprinkled with sea salt, with scattered pretzels all around on wood. Save this
Three caramel-smothered pretzel bars stacked, sprinkled with sea salt, with scattered pretzels all around on wood. | emilyscooks.com

This Cherry Delight has been my trusty standby for ages—it always comes through. My grandma showed me how to make it, and I’ve never changed a thing. Every layer is awesome: graham crackers give you that rich, buttery crunch, then a smooth blanket of cream cheese, and finally juicy cherries right on top. It’s always an easy win at family gatherings—folks can’t wait for seconds and it’s honestly so simple to whip up.

Irresistible Cherry Delight Memories

There’s just a special vibe with this dessert. Maybe it’s the cloud-like cream cheese layer or the just-right pop of cherry sweetness. The best part? My kids love smashing up the graham crackers and helping out. These days, it’s our trusty pick for warm-weather parties because it chills you out and there’s zero oven time. That’s a summer win in my book.

Crunchy pretzel caramel bars stacked up with big flakes of sea salt, pretzels scattered around, all on a wood table. Save this
Crunchy pretzel caramel bars stacked up with big flakes of sea salt, pretzels scattered around, all on a wood table. | emilyscooks.com

What to Grab for Cherry Delight

  • Topping: You want a can of cherry pie filling—go for one packed with whole cherries if you can find it.
  • Middle Goodness: You’ll need some soft cream cheese, vanilla, powdered sugar, and a splash of heavy cream. Let that cream cheese sit out so it blends in easy.
  • Bottom Layer: Just crush up some graham crackers, stir in melted butter, and regular sugar. I usually start with whole crackers and smash them myself.

Common Questions

→ Can I add different toppings?

Definitely! Add chopped nuts, toffee, or your favorite sprinkles. Toss them on while the chocolate's still melty.

→ Why did my caramel get too hard?

If you keep the caramel on the heat too long, it gets tough. Keep an eye on it and take it off after about 3 or 4 minutes of bubbling.

→ Can I freeze these bars?

These freeze great for up to three months! Just stack the bars in a freezer-safe container and put some wax paper in between each layer.

→ How long do these bars stay fresh?

Stash them in a sealed container in your fridge and they're good for around two weeks. The texture stays awesome when they’re kept cold.

→ Can I use different types of chocolate?

For sure! Try using dark or milk chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can even drizzle some white chocolate on top if you want more sweetness.

Caramel Pretzel

Crunchy pretzels, soft caramel, and chocolate come together in these bars you’ll love to make and share with friends.

Preparation Time
10 Minutes
Cooking Time
10 Minutes
Overall Time
20 Minutes
Shared By: Emily

Meal Type: Desserts

Skill Level: Simple

Cuisine Style: American

Makes: 20 Portions (20 bars)

Special Diet: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You’ll Need

01 items Chopped nuts (toss them in if you want).
02 items Sprinkles (completely optional).
03 items Flaky sea salt (optional, totally your call).
04 items 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
05 items 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
06 items 1 cup brown sugar, packed and ready.
07 items 1 cup unsalted butter.
08 items 4 cups mini pretzels.

Steps To Make It

Step 01

Chop into bars and enjoy with friends.

Step 02

Pop in the fridge about an hour to get nice and firm.

Step 03

Leave on the counter till it’s not warm anymore.

Step 04

If you want, sprinkle some nuts, salt, or sprinkles on top.

Step 05

Smooth out the melted chocolate so it covers everything well.

Step 06

Wait 2 or 3 minutes so the chocolate gets soft and melty from the heat.

Step 07

Right after baking, toss chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer.

Step 08

Stick it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes, watch for it to bubble.

Step 09

Carefully pour that caramel mix over your pretzels in the pan.

Step 10

Take it off the heat and stir the vanilla in really well.

Step 11

Let it boil while you keep stirring, shoot for 3 or 4 minutes.

Step 12

In a saucepan, melt together the butter and brown sugar on medium. Keep an eye on it.

Step 13

Spread your pretzels out to cover the bottom of your lined pan.

Step 14

Line your 9x13 baking pan with parchment. Makes cleanup way easier.

Step 15

Get your oven warming up to 350°F.

Extra Notes

  1. Store these in the fridge.
  2. Eat them cold for the best taste.
  3. Awesome for wrapping as little holiday treats.
  4. Switch up the toppings however you like.

Essential Tools

  • Baking pan, 9x13 size.
  • Saucepan for melting and boiling.
  • Parchment paper for lining the pan.

Allergen Info

Review ingredients carefully for allergens, and consult a healthcare provider if you're unsure.
  • Has dairy (butter and chocolate are both in there).
  • Wheat's present (pretzels).

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Keep in mind, this data is an estimate and not a substitute for professional dietary advice.
  • Calories: 200
  • Fat Content: 12 grams
  • Total Carbs: 25 grams
  • Protein Content: 2 grams