Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

ByCole Matthews
Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe
SPREAD LOVE

Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls: A No-Bake Holiday Showstopper

Imagine the comforting aroma of baked treats wafting through your kitchen during the holiday season, bringing back memories of family gatherings and sweet indulgences. Now, envision a dessert that beautifully combines the crunchy goodness of salted pretzels with the rich creaminess of cheesecake and a decadent drizzle of caramel. Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls are not just a treat— they’re a beloved highlight of any holiday celebration, perfect for everyone from adults to kids. These no-bake balls are easy to prepare, making them the ultimate showstopper for those who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

  • They effortlessly blend sweet and salty flavors, tantalizing every palate.
  • They’re easy to customize and can be made ahead of time for hassle-free gatherings.
  • Everyone loves bite-sized treats that make indulging a delight.

This delightful recipe promises both flavor and convenience, making it an ideal choice for holiday parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.

How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

Creating these heavenly treats is a simple process that anyone can master. Follow this guide to ensure your Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls turn out perfectly every time, without the need for baking.

Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you will need:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup crushed salted pretzels
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1/3 cup white chocolate chips, melted
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

  1. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This is the base of your cheesecake filling, so make sure it’s well blended without lumps.
  3. Form the Cheesecake Balls
  4. Once your mixture is ready, scoop out small portions, about one inch in diameter, and roll them into balls. Use a cookie scoop or your hands for this step, and place each ball on a tray lined with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make for an easier cleanup.
  5. Chill for Firmness
  6. After forming all the balls, pop the tray into the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes. Chilling them will help solidify the mixture, making the next steps easier and mess-free.
  7. Prepare the Coating
  8. While the cheesecake balls are chilling, combine the crushed pretzels and rolled oats in a shallow bowl. This crunchy coating adds texture and flavor to the otherwise creamy cheesecake balls.
  9. Dip in Caramel Sauce
  10. Once the cheesecake balls are firm, remove them from the freezer. Drizzle caramel sauce over each ball, ensuring they are coated thoroughly. The caramel will add a rich sweetness that complements the salty pretzel coating beautifully.
  11. Roll in Pretzel Mixture
  12. After dipping in caramel, roll each ball in the pretzel-oat mixture. The combination of textures will make each bite irresistible.
  13. Final Chill and Drizzle
  14. Place the coated balls back on the tray and chill for another 10 minutes. This helps the coating set. For an extra touch, melt some white chocolate in a microwave or using a double boiler. Drizzle the melted chocolate over each ball, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired for an added contrast.
  15. Set and Enjoy
  16. Once the chocolate has set, you can serve your salted caramel pretzel cheesecake balls immediately or store them for later enjoyment.

Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls: A No-Bake Holiday Showstopper

Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

To keep your delicious treats fresh, it’s important to store them properly. Here are some tips:

  • Refrigerate the cheesecake balls: They can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days at 40°F.
  • Freeze for longer enjoyment: If you want to keep them for a bit longer, these cheesecake balls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply take them out of the freezer and allow them to thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

Best Ways to Serve Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

These delightful bites are not just visually appealing—they also pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Consider these serving ideas:

  • Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Offer additional melted chocolate for drizzling based on personal preference, ensuring a touch of sweetness in every bite.
  • Coffee or Tea: These cheesecake balls make a perfect sweet treat alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea, enhancing flavors and creating a delightful afternoon snack.
  • Dessert Board: Include these cheesecake balls in a dessert platter alongside other treats like cookies, fruit, and fudge. This will create a beautiful spread that is sure to impress guests.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

  • Use softened cream cheese for easy mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
  • Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of powdered sugar based on personal taste preferences.
  • Customize your toppings; try adding crushed nuts or sprinkles for a fun twist.
  • For a different flavor profile, consider mixing in a little cocoa powder or flavored extract like almond.

Variations or Substitutions

If you’re feeling creative, here are some great variations you might want to explore:

  • Nut Butter Addition: For added creaminess, blend in a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter into your cream cheese mixture.
  • Dark Chocolate: Swap out the white chocolate for dark chocolate to provide a contrast in flavor and add intensity to the overall dessert.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Absolutely! These cheesecake balls can be made a few days in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, and they’ll be perfect by the time you serve them.

Q: Can I use gluten-free pretzels?

A: Yes, gluten-free pretzels can easily substitute regular pretzels without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Q: How do I keep them from getting too soft?

A: Ensure the cream cheese is well chilled before mixing, and keep the balls in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

In summary, these Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls are a delightful treat bursting with flavor and texture. With their no-bake simplicity, they are the ideal dessert for any festive occasion or a cozy gathering at home. Your friends and family will savor every bite, making this recipe a must-try for your holiday celebrations. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations, and enjoy the sweet moments that come with sharing these irresistible treats!

Print
clock clock icon cutlery cutlery icon flag flag icon folder folder icon instagram instagram icon pinterest pinterest icon facebook facebook icon print print icon squares squares icon heart heart icon heart solid heart solid icon

Salted Caramel Pretzel Cheesecake Balls

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 24 balls 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

No-bake dessert combining the flavors of salted pretzels, creamy cheesecake, and rich caramel.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup crushed salted pretzels
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
  • 1/3 cup white chocolate chips, melted
  • Flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Scoop out portions of the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined tray.
  3. Freeze for 30 to 45 minutes to firm up.
  4. In a shallow bowl, combine crushed pretzels and rolled oats.
  5. Drizzle caramel sauce over each firm cheesecake ball, coating thoroughly.
  6. Roll each ball in the pretzel-oat mixture.
  7. Chill for an additional 10 minutes, then drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt.
  8. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Notes

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ball
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: cheesecake, no-bake, dessert, salted caramel, holiday treats

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Avatar photo

Hey there I’m Cole Matthews, 44 years old, born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and currently calling Austin, Texas home. I’ve been cooking professionally for over two decades, but honestly, I still get that same giddy feeling every time I hear a pan sizzle or the soft pop of a freshly opened jar of pickles. Food has always had that kind of magic for me equal parts comfort and chaos.

My journey into the kitchen wasn’t a straight line. I didn’t grow up dreaming of Michelin stars. I actually wanted to be a drummer. I spent most of my twenties bouncing between dive bars and food service gigs, chasing music at night and flipping burgers by day. Somewhere in between, I fell in love with the rhythm of a dinner rush, the challenge of building flavors, and the quiet satisfaction of seeing someone close their eyes on the first bite.

One night, I was on the grill at this greasy spoon off Route 66 when a customer left a handwritten note: “Best damn patty melt I’ve ever had.” I taped it to the wall and realized this could be it. This could be my stage.

Since then, I’ve run kitchens in Denver, New Orleans, and now Austin, where I co-own a neighborhood joint that specializes in wood-fired everything vegetables, brisket, even peach cobbler. My style’s deeply rooted in Americana, but I like to mess with tradition: a little Vietnamese fish sauce in a pot of collards, smoked jalapeños in the aioli, maple in my kimchi brine. I cook with a lot of instinct, a little science, and absolutely no patience for ego.

Cooking’s taught me more than how to make a perfect roux. It’s taught me to listen, to fail with grace, and to show up every single day. That’s what I try to pass on, especially to home cooks. You don’t need fancy gear or ten knives. You need a sense of play, the courage to mess up, and maybe a cold beer within reach.

I believe food is a language, and my goal is always the same: to say something worth remembering with every plate. Thanks for being here. Let’s make something that sticks with you.

MORE RECIPES

Cranberry apple galette with flaky crust and fresh fruit filling

CRANBERRY APPLE GALETTE

ByElsa
SPREAD LOVE

SPREAD LOVECranberry Apple Galette For a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, look no further than a Cranberry Apple Galette. This rustic pastry offers a sweet and tangy filling of tart cranberries and crisp apples, all wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an…

Delicious homemade Christmas Pecan Turtles on a festive tray.

Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles

ByDeShawn Ellis
SPREAD LOVE

SPREAD LOVEEasy Christmas Pecan Turtles introduction Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles are a delightful treat that brings joy to the holiday season. These yummy candies combine the sweetness of caramel, the crunch of pecans, and the richness of chocolate. They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying yourself. why make this recipe Making Easy…

Peanut Butter Easter Eggs

How to Make Amish Peanut Butter Easter Eggs (Step-by-Step Guide)

ByElsa
SPREAD LOVE

SPREAD LOVEIf you’re looking to make a nostalgic treat that combines old-fashioned charm with creamy, chocolatey goodness, then you need to try Amish Peanut Butter Easter Eggs. These homemade Easter candies have long been a staple in Amish kitchens during the spring season. Whether you want to skip the store-bought versions or explore a delicious…

Key Lime Pie

Mini No Bake Key Lime Pies: A Zesty, Creamy Summer Favorite

ByElsa
SPREAD LOVE

SPREAD LOVEWhen it comes to refreshing summer desserts, nothing screams sunshine like a batch of Mini No Bake Key Lime Pies. These individual frozen treats are creamy, tangy, sweet, and just the right size to leave you satisfied without overindulging. They’re perfect for backyard BBQs, family gatherings, or even just a weekday indulgence that feels…