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To make these tasty bars, you need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you will need: - 1 cup pretzel sticks, finely crushed - 1 cup rolled oats - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup - 1/4 cup packed brown sugar - 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional) - A pinch of sea salt These ingredients come together to create a crunchy and sweet treat. The pretzels add a nice salty crunch, while peanut butter brings richness. Oats give a hearty texture that makes these bars filling. I often use specific brands that I trust for quality. For peanut butter, I like brands that use just peanuts and salt. Some good choices are Smucker's or Jif. For honey, local raw honey is best, but any pure honey works great. If you prefer maple syrup, look for 100% pure options. For chocolate chips, mini chips from Ghirardelli or Nestlé are tasty and melt well. If you have allergies or dietary needs, there are easy swaps. You can use crunchy peanut butter if you like a bit more texture. For a vegan option, replace honey with agave syrup or maple syrup. If you’re gluten-free, choose gluten-free pretzels and oats. You can also skip the chocolate chips if you want to keep it simple. These bars are very flexible, so feel free to get creative! First, gather a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of finely crushed pretzel sticks and 1 cup of rolled oats. Use a spoon to stir them well. You want them mixed evenly. This step adds crunch and flavor. The oats give you fiber, making these bars more filling. Next, take a small saucepan. Add 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup, and 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar. Add 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract too. Heat over low heat. Stir the mix for 2-3 minutes. You want it smooth and melted. This mixture binds everything together. Now, pour the warm peanut butter mix over the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together. Make sure all the dry bits are coated. If you like, add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips and a pinch of sea salt. This adds extra sweetness and flavor. Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the mixture into the dish firmly. This helps the bars hold their shape. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours. Once set, cut into squares or bars. Enjoy your tasty treat! To get the best texture in your bars, use finely crushed pretzel sticks. This helps create a nice crunch without big chunks. When mixing dry ingredients, stir well to combine them fully. You want every bite to have that salty-sweet flavor. Press the mixture firmly into the pan. A tight pack helps the bars hold together well after chilling. Once your bars are chilled, it's time to cut them. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. If you have trouble cutting through, warm the knife slightly under hot water. This makes slicing much easier. Cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Serve them fresh or store them for later snacking. Make your bars look special with simple touches. Wrap each bar in parchment paper. Tie it with twine for a nice gift. Arrange them in a decorative tin or on a platter for a fun treat. You can even add a sprinkle of mini chocolate chips on top for a pop of color. These small details make your no-bake peanut butter pretzel bars stand out! {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of these bars easily. Swap out the peanut butter for almond or cashew butter. Each nut butter gives a unique taste. For a sweet twist, try adding a bit of cocoa powder. Just two tablespoons can add a rich chocolate flavor. You could also use flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, to change things up. Mix-ins can add texture and taste. You might add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts. They add crunch and healthy fats. Seeds like chia or flaxseed work well too. Dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins can add sweetness. Just make sure to chop them small for even mixing. A chocolate drizzle can make these bars even better. Melt some chocolate chips in a bowl over hot water. Use a spoon to drizzle the melted chocolate over the bars before you chill them. Let it harden for a pretty finish. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for extra flavor. This contrast makes each bite special. To keep your no-bake peanut butter pretzel bars fresh, wrap each bar in parchment paper. You can also place them in an airtight container. This method helps avoid moisture loss and keeps the bars crunchy. Make sure to store them in a cool, dry place, or in the fridge for longer freshness. These bars can last up to two weeks when stored properly at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. To freeze, wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying. - Avoid heat and humidity: Store the bars away from direct sunlight and heat sources. - Use parchment paper: This helps absorb moisture and keeps the bars from sticking together. - Check for signs of spoilage: If they smell off or have a weird texture, it’s best to toss them. By following these tips, you can enjoy your no-bake peanut butter pretzel bars at their best! Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter. It adds a nice texture. The bars will still hold together well. Just be sure to mix it well with the other ingredients. You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup. Both options work well and keep the bars sweet. Adjust the amount based on your taste. These bars need to chill for at least 2 hours. This time helps them set properly. If you can wait longer, they will be even firmer and easier to cut. Yes, these bars can be gluten-free. Use gluten-free pretzel sticks and oats. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your needs. No-bake peanut butter pretzel bars are simple and tasty. We discussed key ingredients, brands, and substitutions. I walked you through each step from mixing to serving. You learned tips for the perfect texture and ways to present your bars. We explored fun variations and how to store them well. Now, you can create your own bars with ease and confidence. Enjoy making these treats for friends and family!

No-Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Bars

Indulge in the ultimate snack with these Crunchy Peanut Butter Pretzel Bliss Bars! Perfectly sweet and salty, this easy recipe combines crushed pretzels, wholesome oats, and creamy peanut butter for a delightful treat. Ready in just 10 minutes plus chilling time, these bars are great for gifts or a quick pick-me-up. Click to explore the full recipe and make your own delicious batch today!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup pretzel sticks, finely crushed

1 cup rolled oats

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

A pinch of sea salt

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed pretzel sticks and rolled oats. Stir thoroughly until well mixed and evenly distributed.

    In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the creamy peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), packed brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture becomes smooth and melted, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.

      Pour the warm peanut butter mixture over the pretzel-oat mixture. Gently fold and mix until all the dry ingredients are thoroughly coated.

        If desired, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavors.

          Line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Press the mixture firmly into the dish, spreading it evenly and compacting it tightly for optimal texture.

            Place the baking dish in the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours, allowing the bars to set completely before cutting.

              Once fully set, remove from the dish using the parchment overhang and cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife. Enjoy your crunchy, satisfying snack!

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes | Servings: 12 bars

                  - Presentation Tips: Wrap each bar in parchment paper and secure with twine for a charming homemade gift. Arrange them in a decorative tin for an added touch!