Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars: Chewy

Instructions:

1. Press the slightly crushed pretzels into the bottom of a parchment lined 9x9 inch baking pan. Drizzle the melted butter (56g) over the pretzels and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to create a compact foundation. Note: Firm pressure prevents the bars from crumbling when sliced.
2. Combine the sweetened condensed milk and 113g of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a deep golden hue.
3. Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and 3g of sea salt until fully incorporated. Note: Adding vanilla at the end preserves its aromatic flavor.
4. Pour the hot caramel evenly over the prepared pretzel base, using a spatula to smooth the edges.
5. Melt the semi sweet chocolate chips and 28g of butter together using a microwave in 30 second bursts or a double boiler. Note: Stir every 30 seconds to ensure an even melt.
6. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread into a smooth sheet.
7. Sprinkle a final pinch of flaky sea salt over the top.
8. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours until the layers are firm and set.
9. Slice into 16 bars using a hot knife for the cleanest edges.