Sometimes, a craving for something sweet hits, and you need a delicious solution that doesn’t involve turning on the oven or a long list of ingredients. These Salted Caramel Bites are my absolute go-to for just that. They’re a perfect little treat that’s rich, chewy, and has that irresistible sweet-and-salty balance we all love. With only three main ingredients, this recipe is so easy it almost feels like a trick.

I’ve been making different versions of no-bake treats for years, but this one stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor. They’re perfect for a quick snack, a last-minute dessert, or even a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re a little bite of pure joy that comes together in minutes, and I can’t wait for you to try them.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it proves that you don’t need to be a baker to make something truly delicious. The combination of chewy caramel, crunchy pretzels, and a touch of flaky sea salt is absolutely magical. It’s a texture and flavor explosion in every bite. This is a no-bake recipe, which means no fuss and no waiting around for the oven. It’s a great recipe to get the kids involved with, and they’re perfect for meal prep—you can make a big batch and have them ready for a quick snack all week long.

Ingredients

• 1 (11 oz) bag of caramel bits
• 1 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 3 cups mini pretzel twists
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Swaps and Notes

• Caramel Bits: Caramel bits are easy to work with because they melt smoothly. If you can’t find them, you can use individually wrapped caramels. Just unwrap them all and melt them with the heavy cream.
• Pretzels: Mini pretzel twists are perfect for this, but you could also use pretzel sticks or a different crunchy snack like rice squares or toasted oats.
• Heavy Cream/Milk: The cream or milk is essential for helping the caramel melt into a smooth, pliable consistency. Don’t skip this.
• Flaky Sea Salt: This is a non-negotiable for me! The salt is what makes this treat so special, balancing the sweetness of the caramel.

How to Make Salted Caramel Bites

1. Prep the Pan: Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. This is crucial for easy removal of the bites once they’re set.
2. Melt the Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. This usually takes about 1.5 to 2 minutes.
3. Combine and Spread: Pour the mini pretzels into the bowl with the melted caramel. Stir gently but quickly until all the pretzels are evenly coated.
4. Press and Chill: Pour the caramel-coated pretzels into the prepared baking pan. Using a spatula or your hands (lightly greased with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking), press the mixture down into an even, compact layer.
5. Add the Salt: Immediately sprinkle the top generously with flaky sea salt.
6. Set and Cut: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the caramel is completely set and firm. Once firm, lift the parchment paper out of the pan and cut the bark into bite-sized squares or break it into irregular pieces.

Tips for Success

• Work Quickly: The caramel starts to set as it cools, so it’s important to work quickly when mixing the pretzels and spreading them in the pan.
• Use Parchment Paper: This is the easiest way to get the finished bark out of the pan without a mess. Do not skip this step!
• Don’t Forget the Salt: The flaky sea salt is what truly elevates this treat. A little bit goes a long way to balance the sweetness.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Salted Caramel Bites are a fantastic stand-alone treat, but they’re also great to add to a dessert platter. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of cold milk. For a full spread of easy, delicious snacks, you could serve them with my No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars or a batch of these Caramel Apple Pie Cookies.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Store the salted caramel bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also store them in the refrigerator for a firmer texture, but they may become too hard if left in there for too long.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of easy and delicious treats, you’ll want to check out some of these other favorites:

• For another delicious no-bake option, my Edible Cookie Dough is a perfect guilt-free snack.
• If you love a classic cookie, my Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites are a timeless favorite.
• For a make-ahead holiday dessert, these Pecan Pie Bars are always a hit.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Bites recipe is proof that you don’t need a lot of time or ingredients to create something truly memorable and delicious. It’s a simple, no-fuss treat that’s perfect for satisfying any sweet craving. I hope you give them a try and discover your new favorite snack.

If you make these, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your favorite easy sweet treat to make when you’re short on time? Let me know in the comments below!