Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and that’s precisely what you’ll find in these delightful Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars. I remember the first time I made these bars for a family gathering. The mixture of crunchy pretzels and creamy peanut butter created a treat that was both satisfying and addictive. Everyone in the room couldn’t get enough of them, and the compliments flowed as freely as the smiles. It became a tradition to whip up a batch whenever there was a celebration or just a quiet night in. These bars are perfect for any occasion, and they make a fantastic dessert to share with friends or family.

As I developed this recipe, I aimed to create something that was not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. The Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars combine simple ingredients to create a treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without a lot of fuss. These bars are fantastic for kids’ school lunches, an afternoon snack, or even as a late-night indulgence while binge-watching your favorite show. I love how versatile they are!

Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making these delicious bars. The ingredients work together harmoniously, creating a perfect union of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy. The key players are the peanut butter, which provides a rich and creamy base, and the pretzels that add a delightful crunch. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup Karo® Light Corn Syrup: This adds sweetness and helps bind everything together.
• 1 cup sugar: A necessary sweetener that complements the flavor of the peanut butter.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing richness and a nutty flavor.
• 2 cups roughly chopped pretzels: They give the bars a satisfying crunch and a salty taste.
• 4 cups crispy rice cereal: This adds volume and texture, making the bars light yet satisfying.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For a rich, chocolatey topping that melts beautifully.
• 1 cup peanut butter chips: These enhance the peanut flavor and add a unique twist.

Recipe Directions for Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

Making these Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars is a simple and enjoyable process. I love how the kitchen fills with the smell of melting chocolate and the rich aroma of peanut butter. Let’s dive into the steps:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the Karo® Light Corn Syrup and sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar completely. You’ll notice the mixture bubbling gently as it heats up.

2. Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat. Stir in the creamy peanut butter thoroughly. The heat will help the peanut butter melt and blend seamlessly with the syrup and sugar.

3. Add the chopped pretzels and the crispy rice cereal to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and well combined. You should see the pretzels glistening in the mixture.

4. Prepare a greased 13×9-inch pan by either spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly. Pat it down to ensure it’s tightly packed.

5. In a clean saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter chips together over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. As they melt, the chocolate will become smooth and glossy.

6. Once melted, pour the chocolate mixture over the pressed mixture in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, covering the entire surface. If desired, sprinkle some additional toppings like sprinkles or chopped pretzels.

7. Now, let the bars cool at least 45 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch. You can place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process.

8. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares. It’s best to use a sharp knife for clean edges. Each bite should have that perfect combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and pretzel.

Recipe Tips about Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

When making Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars, you’ll want to keep a few tips in mind to ensure success. Here are some helpful hints:

• Storage: Keep the bars in a tightly sealed container. They stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature. If you’re making them ahead of time, store them in the fridge to maintain their texture.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer, making them a perfect make-ahead treat.
• Pairing: These bars go wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. The sweetness of the bars balances nicely with the bold flavor of coffee.
• Additions: Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top after adding the chocolate layer. It enhances the flavor and makes each bite even more indulgent.
• Serving Size: I recommend cutting the bars into smaller squares. They’re sweet and rich, so smaller portions go a long way!

Serve This Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars With

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways:

• As a Dessert: They make an excellent dessert option for parties and gatherings. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Lunch Box Treat: Pack them in kids’ lunch boxes for a delightful surprise. They offer a sweet crunch that kids love, making lunchtime more exciting.
• Game Day Snack: Perfect for sharing during game day. Set them out on a platter to enjoy with friends as you cheer for your favorite team.
• After-School Snack: They’re a fantastic quick snack for after school. Pair them with fresh fruit for a balanced treat.
• Seasonal Festivities: Make these bars for seasonal festivities like Halloween or Christmas by adding festive sprinkles or themed decorations.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars are a marvelous way to satisfy your sweet cravings while also enjoying a delightful crunch. Their sweet and salty flavor combination never fails to impress, making them a go-to treat for any occasion. I hope you give them a try, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy of sharing these delicious bars with your friends and family. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!

Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

The ultimate sweet and salty treat, Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars combine creamy peanut butter with crunchy pretzels. These easy-to-make bars are perfect for any occasion, whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in. Try them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 24 bars

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Karo® Light Corn Syrup
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups roughly chopped pretzels
• 4 cups crispy rice cereal
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup peanut butter chips

Instructions

 

• In a large saucepan, combine the Karo® Light Corn Syrup and sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to dissolve the sugar completely. You’ll notice the mixture bubbling gently as it heats up.
• Once the mixture reaches a boil, remove it from the heat. Stir in the creamy peanut butter thoroughly. The heat will help the peanut butter melt and blend seamlessly with the syrup and sugar.
• Add the chopped pretzels and the crispy rice cereal to the mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and well combined. You should see the pretzels glistening in the mixture.
• Prepare a greased 13×9-inch pan by either spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly. Pat it down to ensure it’s tightly packed.
• In a clean saucepan, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips and peanut butter chips together over low heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning. As they melt, the chocolate will become smooth and glossy.
• Once melted, pour the chocolate mixture over the pressed mixture in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, covering the entire surface. If desired, sprinkle some additional toppings like sprinkles or chopped pretzels.
• Now, let the bars cool at least 45 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch. You can place them in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
• Once cooled, cut the bars into squares. It’s best to use a sharp knife for clean edges. Each bite should have that perfect combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and pretzel.

Notes

• Tip 1: Keep the bars in a tightly sealed container for up to a week at room temperature.
• Tip 2: Yes, you can freeze these bars! Wrap them individually and store for up to three months.
• Tip 3: These bars pair wonderfully with a glass of milk.
• Tip 4: Consider adding sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick.
• Tip 5: Cut into smaller squares for proper serving sizes.

Keyword easy dessert recipes, No-Bake Bars, Peanut Butter Bars, Pretzel Desserts