Description

These Salted Caramel Pretzel Cracker Bites combine the snap of salty pretzels, buttery crackers, and a gooey homemade caramel layer, all finished with a chocolate drizzle and flaky sea salt. This easy, sweet-and-salty snack is perfect for parties, gifting, or satisfying your cravings in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
About 42 saltine crackers (enough to line a 13×9-inch baking sheet)
2 cups mini pretzel twists or snaps
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 to 2 teaspoons flaky sea salt

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed 13×9-inch baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang for easy removal. Arrange saltine crackers in a single layer to cover the surface.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil (about 3-4 minutes). Once bubbling, continue stirring and let it boil gently for 3 more minutes until glossy and slightly thickened.
Carefully pour the hot caramel over the crackers. Quickly spread it evenly with an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, making sure every cracker is covered.
Bake for 7-8 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling and golden. Remove from the oven.
Immediately sprinkle mini pretzels evenly over the caramel and gently press them in.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1-2 minutes total). Drizzle melted chocolate over the pretzels in zigzags.
While the chocolate is still melty, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top.
Let the pan cool at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until set.
Lift the slab out using the parchment or foil. Cut into 1.5-inch squares or bite-sized pieces and serve.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers and pretzels. For dairy-free, use vegan butter and dairy-free chocolate chips. Press pretzels into caramel while hot for best adhesion. Don’t rush the cooling step—cut only when fully set. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to a month. Optional add-ins: chopped nuts, white chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or peanut butter chips.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Snack
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bite (about 1.5-inch square)
Calories: 110
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 120
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 3.5
Carbohydrates: 14
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 1

Keywords: salted caramel, pretzel bites, cracker toffee, sweet and salty snack, easy dessert, party snack, chocolate drizzle, homemade caramel, holiday treat, potluck recipe