🍫 Chocolate Caramel Coffee Pretzel Bars

Layers of buttery shortbread, rich espresso caramel, crunchy pretzels, and velvety chocolate—finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. Pure indulgence in every bite!

---

🧁 Ingredients

For the Base:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Coffee Layer:

• 1 can (14 oz / 396g) sweetened condensed milk

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons corn syrup or golden syrup

• 1 tablespoon instant coffee or espresso powder

• 1 cup (90g) mini salted pretzels, roughly chopped

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1½ cups (270g) semi-sweet chocolate chips or chunks

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• Flaky sea salt, for topping

---

🍰 Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Shortbread Base

   • In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.

   • Mix in vanilla, then stir in flour and salt until fully combined.

   • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

   • Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden and set.

   • Allow to cool completely.

3. Make the Caramel Coffee Filling

   • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and instant coffee.

   • Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color (about 8–10 minutes).

   • Stir in the crushed pretzels.

   • Pour and spread the caramel evenly over the cooled crust.

   • Let set at room temperature or refrigerate for 20 minutes.

4. Make the Chocolate Topping

   • In a microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop, melt chocolate chips and heavy cream together.

   • Stir until smooth and glossy.

   • Spread the chocolate over the caramel layer.

   • Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

5. Chill & Slice

   • Refrigerate until fully set and firm—about 1–2 hours.

   • Remove from the pan and slice into bars using a sharp knife.

---

✨ Rich, crunchy, sweet, salty, and with a hint of coffee—these bars are the ultimate treat for any dessert table or afternoon craving!