Description

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Fudge is a delightful treat combining rich semisweet chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pretzels with a hint of sea salt. Perfectly layered and chilled to perfection, this fudge offers a sweet, salty, and crunchy bite that’s ideal for satisfying your dessert cravings or gifting during special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

Fudge Base

3 cups semisweet chocolate chips (preferably Guittard)
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
3 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pretzels

Caramel Layer

25 soft caramel candies, unwrapped (Kraft recommended)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Topping

25 whole pretzels for garnish
Sea salt (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Pan: Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the bottom and sides, then set aside.
Make the Fudge Base: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add the semisweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk to the bowl and stir until combined. Microwave on high for 1 minute, then stir well. If the chocolate chips are not completely melted, heat in additional 15-30 second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pretzels until evenly mixed.
Prepare the Caramel Layer: Place the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream in a separate large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 20-30 second bursts, stirring after each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon sea salt to enhance flavor.
Assemble the Fudge: Spread half of the fudge mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan with a spatula. Carefully pour and spread the salted caramel over the fudge layer. Top with the remaining fudge mixture, smoothing it out evenly to cover the caramel layer completely. Garnish the top with whole pretzels and a light sprinkling of sea salt.
Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled fudge for 3 to 4 hours, or ideally overnight, until it is firm and set enough to cut into squares. When ready to slice, use a hot wet knife to make clean cuts. Store the fudge in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Ensure the knife is hot and wet before cutting to achieve smooth edges on the fudge squares.
Using high-quality semisweet chocolate chips like Guittard will enhance the flavor and smoothness of the fudge.
Chilling the fudge overnight yields the best texture and makes cutting easier.
Fudge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
The sea salt sprinkled on top contrasts the sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor beautifully.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Microwaving
Cuisine: American

Keywords: salted caramel fudge, pretzel fudge, chocolate fudge, easy fudge recipe, microwave fudge, holiday fudge, caramel pretzel dessert