Decadent dessert featuring caramel, apples, and salted pretzel crust. Perfect for fall celebrations or parties.
# Components:
→ Pretzel Crust
01 - 1 1/2 cups crushed salted pretzels
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
→ Toppings
04 - 3 medium apples, cored and thinly sliced
05 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
06 - 3/4 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
07 - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
08 - 1/4 cup powdered sugar
09 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt
→ Optional Garnishes
12 - 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans
13 - Extra pretzel pieces, crushed
# Method:
01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 10-inch pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
03 - Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the lined pan, creating an even base about 1/4-inch thick. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until set and golden. Remove from oven and cool completely.
04 - Toss apple slices with lemon juice in a bowl to help prevent browning. Set aside.
05 - Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl using an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and creamy.
06 - Once crust is fully cooled, evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the surface.
07 - Neatly layer apple slices on top of the cream cheese mixture in concentric circles or a decorative pattern.
08 - Generously drizzle caramel sauce over the arranged apples.
09 - Sprinkle the dessert with flaky sea salt. If desired, add chopped toasted pecans and extra crushed pretzel pieces over the top.
10 - Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set. Slice and drizzle with additional caramel sauce just before serving if desired.
