Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls Recipe
Introduction
Salted caramel pretzel cheesecake balls are a delightful bite-sized treat that perfectly balances sweet, salty, and creamy flavors. These no-bake morsels are simple to make and sure to impress at any gathering or as a cozy homemade snack.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 cup crushed pretzels (keep some pieces larger for texture)
- 4 oz white or milk chocolate, for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Step 1: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is silky and fully incorporated.
- Step 2: Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and the crushed pretzels, ensuring they are evenly distributed to blend the sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
- Step 3: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, smoothing out any cracks or uneven edges for a polished look.
- Step 4: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow them to firm up and for the flavors to meld.
- Step 5: (Optional) Melt the white or milk chocolate. Dip each cheesecake ball halfway into the melted chocolate and return them to the tray. Chill again until the chocolate hardens, adding an elegant finishing touch.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crunch, reserve larger pretzel pieces and press them gently onto the cheesecake balls before chilling.
- Use dark chocolate instead of white or milk chocolate if you prefer a richer contrast to the caramel.
- If salted caramel sauce isn’t available, caramel sauce with a pinch of sea salt works just as well.
Storage
Store the cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To enjoy, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture. If coated in chocolate, keep them chilled to maintain the coating’s firmness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these cheesecake balls ahead of time?
Yes, they can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop and hold their shape well.
Can I freeze the cheesecake balls?
Absolutely. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 24 cheesecake balls 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls combine creamy, tangy cheesecake with the perfect balance of salty pretzels and sweet, luscious salted caramel. Coated optionally in rich white or milk chocolate, these bite-sized treats are an irresistible snack or dessert, ideal for parties or indulgent everyday moments.
Ingredients
Cheesecake Mixture
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 cup crushed pretzels (keep some pieces larger for texture)
Chocolate Coating (Optional)
- 4 oz white or milk chocolate, for dipping or drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheesecake Mixture: Beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is silky and fully incorporated.
- Add Salted Caramel and Pretzels: Gently fold in the salted caramel sauce and the crushed pretzels, ensuring they are evenly distributed to blend the sweet and salty flavors perfectly.
- Shape the Balls: Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls, smoothing out any cracks or uneven edges for a polished look.
- Chill to Set: Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow them to firm up and for the flavors to meld.
- Optional Chocolate Coating: Melt the white or milk chocolate. Dip each cheesecake ball halfway into the melted chocolate and return them to the tray. Chill again until the chocolate hardens, adding an elegant finishing touch.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in the mixture.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized balls to ensure even chilling and presentation.
- Keep some larger pretzel pieces for added texture and crunch.
- Store cheesecake balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a firmer chocolate coat, you can temper the chocolate or add a small amount of coconut oil when melting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: salted caramel, pretzel, cheesecake balls, no-bake dessert, bite-sized treats, party snacks, chocolate dipped cheesecake
