2 cups pretzels, crushed (twists or sticks work well)
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil (optional, for a smoother finish)
1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides. This makes it much easier to lift the bars out once they are set.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until all the pretzel bits are evenly coated in butter. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
Transfer the pretzel mixture to your prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your hands to press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake for 10 minutes until the edges are slightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is completely smooth and melted. Be careful not to overheat it.
Pour the melted chocolate over the baked pretzel base. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the coarse sea salt over the top. Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is firm.
Once the bars are fully set, use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to slice them into 16 squares. Serve and enjoy!