Name: Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Squares Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pretzel crumbs (about 10 oz of pretzels); ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 16 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); Flaky sea salt, for garnish

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Introduction

These Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Squares offer the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy. With a crunchy pretzel crust and luscious cheesecake filling topped with rich salted caramel, they’re an irresistible treat for any occasion.

The image shows several square dessert bars arranged closely together on a white marbled surface. Each bar has three layers: a thick, dark brown crumbly base with visible bits of nuts or oats; a smooth, creamy off-white middle layer; and a glossy, rich caramel layer on top that drips slightly down the sides. The caramel layer is sprinkled with coarse white sea salt crystals that catch the light. The bars are evenly cut with clean edges, and the photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups pretzel crumbs (about 10 oz of pretzels)
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
16 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Flaky sea salt, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the pretzel crumbs and melted butter until well mixed. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, mixing until well combined. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until smooth.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Pour the cheesecake filling over the cooled pretzel crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
Step 5: Once the cheesecake is set, remove it from the refrigerator. Drizzle the salted caramel sauce generously over the top.
Step 6: Using a sharp knife, cut the cheesecake into squares. Before serving, sprinkle each square with a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Tips & Variations

Use homemade salted caramel sauce for a fresher, richer flavor or choose a high-quality store-bought option to save time.
Chill the cream cheese beforehand to make the mixing process smoother and avoid lumps.
For added texture, sprinkle chopped pretzels on top before drizzling caramel.
To make mini cheesecakes, use a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and reduce chilling time accordingly.

Storage

Store the cheesecake squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. You can gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if you prefer them slightly warm, but avoid overheating to prevent melting the topping.

How to Serve

The image shows several square caramel cheesecake bars on a white marble surface. Each bar has three layers: a bottom layer of a crunchy brown nut mixture, a middle layer of smooth off-white cheesecake, and a top layer of shiny golden caramel sauce. The caramel is sprinkled with large white salt crystals, adding texture. The bars are evenly cut and arranged close together, showing clean edges and the contrast of colors clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel sauce instead of salted caramel?

Yes, you can use regular caramel sauce, but the touch of salt enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness and adding depth.

How do I soften cream cheese quickly?

To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it on low power in short bursts of 10 seconds, checking frequently to avoid melting.