Creating these scrumptious Salted Caramel Pretzel Bars is as easy as following a set of fun steps:

1. Preheat your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the crushed pretzels and melted butter. Add brown sugar and mix until well combined.

3. Press into the Baking Dish: Transfer the pretzel mixture to the prepared baking dish, pressing it down evenly to form a solid base.

4. Bake the Crust: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

6. Cook the Caramel: Allow the mixture to boil without stirring for 5-7 minutes until it turns a deep golden color. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

7. Add Sea Salt: Once the caramel has reached the desired color, remove from heat and stir in half a teaspoon of sea salt.

8. Pour Caramel Over Crust: Carefully pour the prepared caramel over the cooled pretzel crust.

9. Sprinkle with Chocolate Chips: If using, sprinkle chocolate chips over the warm caramel, allowing them to melt slightly.

10. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for an hour to let the caramel set.

11. Slice and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the baking dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares and sprinkle with additional sea salt.