No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Pecan Clusters

Step-by-step instructions

1. Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents the clusters from sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans and broken pretzels.
3. To make drizzling easier, warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave until it’s pourable.
4. Pour the warmed caramel sauce over the pecan and pretzel mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
5. Using a spoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet to form clusters.
6. Lightly sprinkle each cluster with sea salt for that perfect contrast of flavor.
7. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
8. Drizzle the melted chocolate over each cluster, allowing the decadence to shine.
9. Refrigerate the clusters for at least one hour so they can set properly before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

These clusters are delightful on their own but can be served in various creative ways. Place them on a colorful platter for an attractive display at parties or pack them in mason jars as sweet gifts for friends. For an extra twist, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert experience.

How to store

To keep your No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Pecan Clusters fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their best quality for up to one week. If you’d like to enjoy them later, you can freeze the clusters for up to three months. Just remember to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Helpful cooking tips

1. Ensure the caramel sauce is warmed just enough to be pourable but not too hot; you want your clusters to hold together without melting into a puddle.
2. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce, but if you have a little more time, homemade caramel will elevate the flavor profile.
3. Consider lightly toasting the pecans in a pan for added depth and flavor before mixing them, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning!

Creative twists

Feel free to customize your No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Pecan Clusters! For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the caramel mix. You can also swap the semi-sweet chocolate for milk or dark chocolate or even try white chocolate for a different flavor. Vegan options are available if you use plant-based caramel and chocolate.

FAQs

How long do these clusters take to set?

These clusters typically need about one hour in the refrigerator to harden. For best results, allow them to chill for longer if possible.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! These clusters can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What if I can’t find caramel sauce?

If you’re in a pinch, make a quick homemade caramel sauce using sugar, butter, and cream. Or, consider using chocolate or peanut butter instead for a different take!

No-Bake Salted Caramel Pretzel Pecan Clusters

Delicious clusters combining crunchy pretzels, sweet caramel, and nutty pecans, drizzled with chocolate—perfect for any sweet-savory snack craving.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 12 clusters

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the clusters

• 1 cup pecans, chopped Can substitute with almonds or walnuts.
• 1 cup pretzels, broken into small pieces Gluten-free pretzels can be used for a gluten-free version.
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce Store-bought or homemade.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt To enhance flavor.
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Can substitute with milk, dark, or white chocolate.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans and broken pretzels.
3. Warm the caramel sauce slightly in the microwave until it’s pourable.
4. Pour the warmed caramel sauce over the pecan and pretzel mixture, stirring well to coat evenly.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet to form clusters.
6. Lightly sprinkle each cluster with sea salt.
7. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring until smooth.
8. Drizzle the melted chocolate over each cluster.
9. Refrigerate the clusters for at least one hour to set before serving.

Notes

Store clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months, separated with parchment paper.