Irresistible Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies Recipe

Recipe By:
Laura Rollins
Updated:

The moment you take a bite of Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies, your taste buds will dance like they just won the lottery. Imagine soft, fudgy brownies with a rich and gooey salted caramel layer, all topped off with crunchy pretzels that provide an irresistible salty contrast. It’s like the sweet and salty flavor gods got together for a heavenly showdown.

Now, picture this: your friends gather around for movie night, and you unveil these beauties. The oohs and ahhs that follow as they sink their forks into layers of chocolatey goodness are worth every minute spent in the kitchen. These brownies are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or even just a Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll be on repeat in your dessert rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are quick to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings.
  • The delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors keeps everyone coming back for more.
  • They look stunning on any dessert table with their glossy caramel finish and crunchy topping.
  • Versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or toppings for a unique twist!

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Use high-quality cocoa powder for rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-processed works best for deep color.
  • Granulated Sugar: This sweetener is essential for achieving that perfect brownie texture; adjust to taste based on sweetness preference.
  • Brown Sugar: Light or dark works here; it adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the salted caramel.
  • Butter: Use unsalted butter for more control over saltiness; melt it before adding to the batter for smooth mixing.
  • Eggs: Fresh large eggs work best to bind all ingredients together while providing richness to the brownies.
  • All-Purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient; sifting it helps avoid lumps and ensures even mixing.
  • Salted Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade; this sauce takes these brownies from ordinary to extraordinary!
  • Mini Pretzels: Choose crunchy pretzels for that satisfying crunch; they add both texture and a lovely salty kick.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugars

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once melted, remove from heat and whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs

Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding in the eggs one at a time. Whisk well after each addition until everything is nicely blended.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together cocoa powder and flour in another bowl. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix unless you enjoy dense brownies!

Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan

Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of your salted caramel sauce over it, then carefully dollop remaining brownie batter on top.

Step 6: Top with Pretzels

Drizzle remaining salted caramel sauce on top of the second layer of brownie batter. Scatter mini pretzels generously across the surface—there’s no such thing as too many pretzels here!

Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter). Let cool before slicing into squares.

Transfer to plates and watch everyone dig in while you bask in dessert-making glory! Enjoy those happy faces as they experience brownie heaven!

You Must Know

  • These Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are not just a dessert; they are an experience.
  • The sweet and salty combo, crunchy pretzels, and gooey chocolate create a mouthwatering delight that is perfect for any occasion.
  • Your taste buds will thank you endlessly!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by melting your chocolate and butter together in a double boiler for that dreamy texture. While it cools, whisk your dry ingredients separately. Combine everything harmoniously, then fold in those crushed pretzels right before baking to keep them crunchy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chocolate with butterscotch or even white chocolate for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor. Got nuts? Toss in some walnuts or pecans for added crunch!

Storing & Reheating

Store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to get that gooey goodness back without losing their charm.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve the perfect brownie texture, avoid overmixing the batter as it can lead to cakey results.
  • Use quality chocolate for richer flavor; it truly makes a difference.
  • Don’t skip the cooling time after baking; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Sometimes I make these brownies before family gatherings, and watching everyone’s eyes light up is priceless. The combination of sweet caramel and crunchy pretzels always sparks joy—and maybe a little sugar-fueled dance party!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies?

To make delicious Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies, you will need unsweetened cocoa powder, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Additionally, gather pretzels for the crust and topping. For the salted caramel sauce, you will need sugar, heavy cream, sea salt, and butter. These ingredients combine to create a rich brownie base with a crunchy pretzel layer and a luscious salted caramel drizzle.

How do I store Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies?

Storing your Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies is easy. Allow them to cool completely before cutting into squares. Place the brownies in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to one week. For best results, allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving so that their flavors can shine.

Can I make Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies ahead of time. Bake the brownies and let them cool completely. Once cooled, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They can be made up to two days in advance without losing their deliciousness. For an extra touch, warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What variations can I try with Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies?

There are several fun variations you can try with Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies! Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts like walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter for added texture. You could also experiment by using different types of pretzels, such as chocolate-covered pretzels for a sweeter twist. For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed candy canes on top during the holiday season.

Conclusion for Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies:

Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate brownies with crunchy pretzels and creamy salted caramel. By following this simple recipe and storing your brownies properly, you can enjoy these indulgent desserts anytime. Whether you’re making them ahead of time or experimenting with variations, these brownies promise to impress your family and friends. Treat yourself to this sweet delight today!

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Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are the ultimate indulgent dessert, combining rich chocolatey flavors with a satisfying crunch from pretzels and a luscious drizzle of salted caramel. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these brownies will have everyone coming back for more. With gooey layers and a delightful sweet-salty contrast, they’re sure to become a favorite treat!

  • Author: Jennifer
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves about 12 brownies 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup mini pretzels

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and whisk in granulated and brown sugars until combined.
  3. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add eggs one at a time, whisking after each addition.
  4. Sift together cocoa powder and flour in a separate bowl. Fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over it, then dollop remaining batter on top.
  6. Drizzle remaining caramel over the second layer of batter and top with mini pretzels.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs. Allow to cool before slicing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking.- Swap chocolate for butterscotch or white chocolate for a unique twist.- Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra texture.

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