Salty-Sweet Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Bars – A Crunchy, Creamy Dream

Salty-Sweet Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Bars are a dessert lover’s dream come true. Imagine a buttery pretzel crust topped with smooth, creamy cheesecake and finished with a drizzle of golden caramel — every bite is the perfect harmony of sweet, salty, and utterly satisfying. These bars combine crunchy texture, velvety filling, and that irresistible caramel finish for a treat that’s elegant enough for parties and easy enough for weeknight indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sweet & Salty Perfection: The ultimate flavor balance in every bite.
Creamy Cheesecake Layer: Smooth and luscious without being too heavy.
Crunchy Pretzel Crust: A fun, flavorful twist on traditional graham cracker bases.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or gifting.

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust:

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• ½ cup light butter, melted
• 3 tbsp brown sugar

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 8 oz light cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Topping:

• ¼ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• A small pinch of sea salt flakes (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the Pretzel Crust
In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese, Greek yogurt, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Pour over the cooled crust, spreading evenly.

4. Bake the Bars
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are lightly golden. Cool completely at room temperature.

5. Add Caramel & Chill
Once cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

6. Slice & Serve
Lift from the pan using parchment paper and slice into 12 bars. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 190
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fat: 9g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success

Crush Pretzels Finely: Helps the crust stay firm and cohesive.
Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Ensures a smooth, lump-free filling.
Don’t Overbake: The cheesecake should be slightly jiggly in the center when removed. Cool Completely: Prevents cracks and ensures clean, neat slices.

Why This Recipe Works

These cheesecake bars master the art of balance — sweet caramel and creamy filling paired with the crunchy, salty base of pretzels. The Greek yogurt adds lightness and a touch of tang, making this dessert rich but not overly heavy. It’s an easy recipe that looks (and tastes) like something from a bakery.

Salty-Sweet Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Bars are the perfect dessert when you crave both indulgence and balance. Each layer brings its own texture and flavor — the crisp pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake, and luscious caramel drizzle unite into pure bliss. Whether you serve them at a holiday party or keep them all to yourself, these bars are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every sweet tooth.