Caramel Pretzel Bars (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter.
02 - 1 cup packed brown sugar.
03 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
04 - 2 cups mini pretzel twists, roughly crushed.
05 - 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips.
06 - Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish).

Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing overhang on the sides for easy removal.
02 - In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and vanilla until smooth. Remove from heat and fold in crushed pretzels.
03 - Transfer the caramel-pretzel mixture to the prepared pan, spreading evenly. Press down firmly to create a compact layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and slightly bubbly.
04 - Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the hot base. Return to oven for 1-2 minutes or until chocolate is soft. Spread melted chocolate with a spatula to cover the base. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes, if using.
05 - Allow to cool completely in pan. Lift out using parchment overhang and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into bars.

Notes:

01 - This recipe combines sweet and salty flavors with a crunchy pretzel base and rich caramel layer.
02 - Sprinkling sea salt flakes on top enhances the balance of sweet and salty.