caramel popcorn pretzel bars

Making these bars may have been one of my worst decisions. 

Let me set the scene.  I am going away next week.  It will be tropical, there will be water and there will be bathing suit wearing.  While all of my friends that are going are watching what they eat, hitting the gym a little more, and doing juice cleanses I am sitting on my couch catching up on Top Chef Just Desserts and eating these bars.  Sweet, salty and crunchy ... are you kidding me? Juice cleanse or caramel goodness?  I like a green juice but, not all day for 3 days.  Wait maybe I am the super smart one and made one of my best decisions.  I guess the bathing suit will be the judge next week.

caramel popcorn pretzel bars

source: everyday food

non-stick cooking spray

1 large plain microwave popcorn bag
4 ounces small salted pretzels
1 cups sugar
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/3 cups heavy cream
1 cups mini marshmallows


Spray a 8" x 8" baking dish, a large mixing bowl and a spatula with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.

Pop the popcorn.  While the popcorn pops coarse chop or crush the pretzels.  Add the pretzels to the bowl with the popcorn.

Combine the sugar, water & salt in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it begins to boil. Simmer, undisturbed, for 8-12 minutes, or until the mixture turns golden brown. Remove the pan from the heat & slowly stir in the cream. The mixture will bubble up quite a bit, so add it slowly! Add the marshmallows & stir until they have completely melted.

Pour the caramel over the popcorn & pretzels. Using the spatula, toss immediately to combine & scrape out into the baking dish. Use the sprayed spatula to press down the mixture to achieve a smooth surface.  Let the bars cool for 10 minutes. Use a serrated knife to cut 24- 2" squares.