Are you ready to indulge in a delicious dessert that’s both sweet and salty? My No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge is a treat you won’t want to miss! This easy recipe combines crunchy pretzels with rich chocolate and creamy caramel. Plus, you don’t need to turn on your oven! Follow along to learn how to make this tasty fudge that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started!

Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 cups crushed pretzel sticks
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup caramel sauce
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon sea salt
– ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
To make No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge, you need simple and tasty ingredients. The crushed pretzel sticks give a nice crunch. Sweetened condensed milk adds creaminess and sweetness. Semi-sweet chocolate chips bring rich chocolate flavor. Caramel sauce ties it all together with its sweet and gooey goodness.
Vanilla extract enhances the taste, while the sea salt balances sweetness. If you want extra flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts. They add a lovely nutty crunch.
Using quality ingredients makes a big difference. Choose a caramel sauce you love. A good chocolate will also shine through. This mix of flavors creates a sweet and salty treat that everyone will enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the crushed pretzel sticks into the bowl. Next, pour in the sweetened condensed milk. Then, add the semi-sweet chocolate chips and caramel sauce. Don’t forget the vanilla extract and sea salt! Mix all these ingredients together until they blend well. If you like nuts, toss in the chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. This mixture should feel thick and sticky.
Preparing the Baking Dish
Now it’s time to prep your baking dish. Take an 8×8-inch dish and line it with parchment paper. Make sure the paper hangs over the edges. This helps later when you lift out the fudge. The parchment prevents sticking and makes clean-up easy.
Setting the Fudge in the Refrigerator
Pour the mixed fudge into the lined baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Press it down firmly to make a compact layer. For an extra treat, drizzle more caramel sauce on top. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt for flavor. Now, place the dish in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 3 hours. After that, the fudge should be firm and ready to cut. Lift it out using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
How to Perfect Your Fudge Texture
To get your fudge just right, focus on the mixing. Make sure all ingredients blend well. This helps in achieving a smooth texture. Use your hands to press the mixture firmly into the pan. This helps the fudge hold together. If it feels too soft, chill it a bit longer. This will help it set properly.
Suggestions for Serving and Presentation
When ready to serve, cut the fudge into neat squares. Place them on a pretty plate. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a nice touch. Add some crushed pretzel pieces on the side. This creates a fun, crunchy look. You can also sprinkle sea salt on top. This balances the sweetness perfectly and makes it look gourmet.
Flavor Enhancements and Substitutions
You can easily switch up the flavors in this recipe. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. If you like nuts, add chopped pecans or walnuts. They bring a nice crunch. You can even use peanut butter chips instead of chocolate chips. This adds a rich and nutty taste. If you want a sweeter fudge, add more caramel sauce. Adjust according to your taste!
Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Fudge
Want to mix things up? Try adding peanut butter! To make chocolate peanut butter pretzel fudge, simply blend in ½ cup of creamy peanut butter into your mixture. This gives the fudge a rich, nutty flavor. The chocolate and peanut butter work well together, making each bite a delight. You will enjoy the added creaminess and taste!
Nut-Free Version
If you need a nut-free option, skip the nuts. The fudge remains delicious without them. You can also add more pretzel sticks for crunch. This keeps the texture fun and tasty, even without nuts. Everyone can enjoy this treat safely.
Adding Seasonal Flavors (e.g., Pumpkin Spice)
To celebrate the seasons, add spices! For a fall twist, mix in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to your fudge. This warm flavor pairs well with caramel and chocolate. You can also try cinnamon or nutmeg for a different taste. Seasonal flavors will make your fudge special for any occasion!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge fresh, store it in an airtight container. Use parchment paper to separate layers. This will help avoid sticking. Place the container in the refrigerator to maintain the fudge’s texture. If you have extra caramel sauce, keep it in a separate jar in the fridge.
Shelf Life and Freshness Tips
This fudge lasts up to two weeks in the fridge. You can tell it’s fresh by its firm texture. If the fudge starts to feel hard, it may be drying out. Always check for any off smell or changes in color. These signs mean it’s time to toss it.
Making Ahead and Freezing Instructions
You can make this fudge ahead of time. Just follow the recipe, let it set, and store it. For freezing, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. The fudge can freeze well for about three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use homemade caramel sauce. Making your own adds a personal touch. Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape. A well-made sauce will enhance the flavor of the fudge. If you prefer a store-bought option, that works too. Both will taste great in this recipe.
What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
If you need a substitute, try using coconut milk with sugar. Mix one cup of coconut milk with ⅔ cup of sugar. Cook it down until it thickens. You can also use evaporated milk with added sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your taste for the best results.
How do I know when the fudge is set?
To check if the fudge is set, touch the top lightly. It should feel firm and not sticky. Refrigerate it for at least three hours. If it’s still soft, give it more time. Once set, it will cut into neat squares easily. Enjoy your delicious fudge!
This blog post covered how to make delicious pretzel fudge. We looked at the key ingredients and shared easy steps. Tips helped ensure your fudge has the best texture. I also shared fun flavor variations and storage tips.
In the end, making this fudge is simple and fun. Enjoy creating your own tasty treats!
