These sweet-and-salty bites combine crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate—inspired by the classic Take 5 candy bar!
Ingredients (Makes ~35 bites)
- 70 square pretzels (like Snyder’s Snaps, divided into 35 base + 35 tops)
- ⅔ cup crunchy peanut butter
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 25 caramels (Kraft works well)
- 2½ tbsp heavy cream
- 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for smoother chocolate)
(Optional: Flaky sea salt for topping!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Peanut Butter Layer
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or silicone mat.
- Lay out 35 pretzels as bases.
- Mix peanut butter + powdered sugar; spread 1 tsp on each pretzel.
- Freeze 10 mins to set.
2. Make the Caramel
- Microwave caramels + heavy cream in 30-sec intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Cool slightly (~2 mins).
3. Assemble the Bites
- Remove pretzels from freezer; top each with ½ tsp caramel.
- Press a second pretzel on top to form a “sandwich.”
- Freeze again 10 mins to firm up.
4. Coat in Chocolate
- Melt chocolate chips + oil in microwave, stirring every 30 secs.
- Dip each pretzel sandwich in chocolate, tapping off excess.
- Place on a wax paper-lined tray; refrigerate 15-30 mins to set.
5. Optional Finish
- Drizzle with leftover chocolate or sprinkle with sea salt.
FAQs & Tips
Q: Can I use smooth peanut butter?
✅ Yes, but crunchy adds texture.
Q: Why is my caramel too thick?
➡️ Add 1 tsp cream and reheat briefly.
Q: How to store these?
- Room temp: 3 days (cool/dry place).
- Fridge: 2 weeks (bring to room temp before serving).
- Freezer: 1 month (thaw in fridge).
Q: Can I use milk chocolate?
✅ Yes! Swap for milk or dark chocolate chips.
Q: How to prevent messy dipping?
➡️ Use a fork to lower pretzels into chocolate, then tap gently.
Serving Suggestions
🎉 Perfect for:
- Holiday cookie trays
- Movie-night snacks
- Edible gifts (pack in cute boxes!)
Nutrition (per bite): ~160 kcal
These addictive bites are crispy, creamy, and chocolatey—impossible to eat just one! 😋
Pro Tip: For extra flair, sprinkle with crushed pretzels before the chocolate sets! ✨
