Get ready to experience a mind-blowing fusion of sweet, salty, and crunchy in these absolutely addictive Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars! Imagine a treat that combines the classic comfort of peanut butter, the satisfying crunch of pretzels, and the decadent richness of chocolate - all in one bite. Whether you're looking for a quick dessert, a crowd-pleasing snack, or a treat that'll make your taste buds dance, these bars are about to become your new culinary love affair. Prepare to be amazed by how simple ingredients can transform into something so incredibly delicious!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pretzel sticks
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, crush the pretzel sticks into small pieces. You can do this by placing them in a zip-top bag and using a rolling pin or your hands to break them down into smaller bits.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the peanut butter and honey. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and pour the peanut butter and honey mixture over the crushed pretzels in the mixing bowl. Stir well until all the pretzel pieces are evenly coated.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped peanuts into the pretzel mixture, ensuring that they are evenly distributed throughout.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly with a spatula or your hands to create an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and the mixture is set.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into 16 even bars using a sharp knife. Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Tips
- Crushing Pretzels: For the best texture, don't pulverize the pretzels into dust. Aim for small, varied pieces that will provide a satisfying crunch throughout the bars.
- Chocolate Chip Variation: For extra indulgence, use a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips to create a more complex flavor profile.
- Peanut Butter Selection: Use a smooth, creamy peanut butter for the best consistency. Natural peanut butter can work, but may require slight adjustments to the recipe.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape and have the perfect texture.
- Storage Hack: If you want to keep these bars extra fresh, store them in the refrigerator. They'll maintain their texture and taste even longer.
- Customization Option: Feel free to add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an elevated flavor experience.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and are perfect for meal prep or unexpected guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
