Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 cups (68g) crushed pretzels (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup (80g) rolled oats
- ¾ cup (150g) Medjool dates, pitted
- 6 tablespoons (96g) nut or seed butter (almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter)
- 2 tablespoons (40g) brown rice syrup (or honey for non-vegan)
- 1–2 tablespoons (15–30ml) non-dairy milk, only if needed
For the Topping:
- 1 cup (175g) dairy-free chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) coconut oil
- Optional toppings: crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or chopped pecans
Instructions
- Create the Base Layer: In a food processor, combine crushed pretzels and rolled oats. Pulse until the mixture resembles a coarse flour. Add in the pitted dates, nut or seed butter, and brown rice syrup. Process until the mixture begins to clump and form a sticky dough. Test the texture by pinching some dough; if it doesn’t hold, add non-dairy milk 1 tablespoon at a time until it sticks.
- Press the Crust: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment or aluminum foil, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Transfer the dough into the pan and use a spatula or clean hands to press the mixture evenly and firmly into the bottom.
- Make the Chocolate-Caramel Topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each until smooth and fully melted. Pour the chocolate mixture evenly over the base layer and smooth with a spatula.
- Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle crushed pretzels, sea salt flakes, or chopped pecans over the chocolate layer if desired for extra texture and flavor. Refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour or until the chocolate topping is fully set.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the bars using the parchment or foil overhang. Let them sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing to achieve clean cuts. Serve chilled or at room temperature according to preference.
Notes
- Use gluten-free pretzels if you need a gluten-free version.
- The bars are naturally vegan and can be made non-vegan by substituting honey for brown rice syrup.
- Adjust the amount of non-dairy milk carefully to avoid making the dough too wet.
- Optional toppings add a delightful crunch and enhance the salted caramel flavor.
- These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian