Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s a slight overhang for easy lifting later.

Step 2: Layer the Pretzels

• Spread the crushed pretzels evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.

Step 3: Make the Caramel

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble (2-3 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Pour the Caramel

• Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the pretzel layer, using a spatula to ensure all the pretzels are coated.

Step 5: Bake

• Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate

• Remove the dish from the oven and immediately sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
• Let sit for a few minutes to allow the chocolate to soften, then spread evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 7: Sprinkle Sea Salt

• For a sweet and salty finish, lightly sprinkle sea salt over the melted chocolate layer.

Step 8: Cool and Set

• Let the bars cool at room temperature for 30 minutes. For faster setting, place the dish in the refrigerator until the chocolate is firm.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

• Use the parchment overhang to lift the set bars from the dish.
• Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!