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Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies Irresistible Treat

by on March 17, 2025

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Get ready for a sweet treat that combines rich chocolate with a crunchy twist! These Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are your new favorite dessert. Packed with flavor and texture, they are simple to make and even more fun to eat. In this post, I’ll share tips, tricks, and tasty variations to help you whip up these irresistible delights. Let’s dive into the world of brownies that are anything but ordinary!

To make salted caramel pretzel brownies, gather these items: - 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks) - 2 cups granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup chocolate chips - 1 cup pretzel pieces (roughly crushed) - 1 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Use salted butter instead of unsalted for a saltier taste. - Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. - Egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal work for a vegan option. - Try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free brownies. - Use cocoa powder alternatives like carob powder for a different taste. Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh eggs and real vanilla extract add flavor. Good cocoa powder ensures rich chocolate taste. When you choose quality salted caramel, it enhances your brownies' sweetness. Even the pretzels matter; crunchy, fresh pretzels add texture. Investing in these ingredients creates a better dessert experience. You want each bite to be delicious and memorable. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy release after baking. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once the butter melts, remove it from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until smooth. Next, beat in 4 large eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg mixes in well before adding the next. After that, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Mix until just combined to keep the brownies tender. Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Carefully fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of crushed pretzel pieces. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over this layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the caramel into the batter. Pour the rest of the brownie batter on top. Smooth it out and drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on the top layer. You can swirl it again for a pretty finish. Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are cool, cut the brownies into squares. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each brownie. This little touch enhances the sweet and salty flavors, making them even more irresistible. To get the best texture for your brownies, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. Use room temperature eggs to help them mix well. The butter should be melted but not hot. This helps combine the ingredients smoothly. When melting chocolate, use low heat. You can use a double boiler or a microwave. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, about 20 seconds. Stir between each burst. This prevents the chocolate from burning. Always watch closely, as chocolate can turn from melted to burnt quickly. Making caramel sauce from scratch is simple. You need sugar, butter, and cream. Start by melting sugar over medium heat. Stir often until it turns amber. Then add butter and cream quickly. Be careful, as it bubbles up. Stir until smooth and let it cool before using. This homemade sauce adds a rich flavor to your brownies. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in more tender brownies. Don't Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Choose Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your brownies. Look for a brand you enjoy eating on its own. Swirl with Care: When swirling the caramel into the batter, use a gentle hand to create beautiful marbling without fully mixing it in. This adds both flavor and visual appeal. {{image_4}} You can add nuts for a fun twist. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. They add a nice crunch. Mix in about 1 cup of your chosen nuts into the batter. This gives your brownies a richer texture. Plus, the nuts enhance the flavor. If you want to mix it up, try different sauces. A chocolate fudge sauce can be drizzled on top. You might also like a white chocolate sauce for a different taste. For toppings, consider using crushed candy bars or sprinkles. Both options add fun and flair to your brownies. To make gluten-free brownies, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the treat. Your brownies will still be soft and tasty! After you enjoy these brownies, store the leftovers to keep them fresh. Place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and chewy. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember to let them return to room temperature before eating for the best taste. Freezing these brownies is easy. Cut them into squares before freezing. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature. To reheat your brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This will revive their fudgy texture and warm up their flavors. If you prefer a microwave, heat them for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough. Enjoy them warm for a delightful treat! You can check if the brownies are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The brownies should not be wet but still soft. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary. If you overbake, they may turn dry. Yes, you can use store-bought caramel for this recipe. It saves time and still tastes great. Look for a salted caramel option to match the flavor of the brownies. Just make sure it is thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled. If you need a substitute for eggs, use unsweetened applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce. This keeps the brownies moist and adds a hint of sweetness. You can also use mashed bananas or a flaxseed mixture. To make this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. In this post, we explored making the best brownies. We covered ingredients, steps, and tips for the perfect bake. You learned about ingredient swaps and how quality matters. We discussed storage and answered key questions. Cooking is fun and a great way to try new things. Experiment with different flavors and make it your own. Enjoy your baking journey!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Decadent Flavor Combination: The rich chocolate flavor of the brownies perfectly complements the sweet and salty notes of the caramel and pretzels.
  2. Textural Delight: The combination of soft, fudgy brownies with crunchy pretzel pieces creates a satisfying contrast in each bite.
  3. Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and beginners.
  4. Perfect for Sharing: These brownies are great for gatherings, as they can easily be cut into squares and served to a crowd.

Ingredients

Complete List of Ingredients

To make salted caramel pretzel brownies, gather these items:

– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)

– 2 cups granulated sugar

– 4 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup chocolate chips

– 1 cup pretzel pieces (roughly crushed)

– 1 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap some ingredients if needed:

– Use salted butter instead of unsalted for a saltier taste.

– Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.

– Egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal work for a vegan option.

– Try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free brownies.

– Use cocoa powder alternatives like carob powder for a different taste.

Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh eggs and real vanilla extract add flavor. Good cocoa powder ensures rich chocolate taste. When you choose quality salted caramel, it enhances your brownies’ sweetness. Even the pretzels matter; crunchy, fresh pretzels add texture. Investing in these ingredients creates a better dessert experience. You want each bite to be delicious and memorable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy release after baking. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once the butter melts, remove it from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until smooth.

Next, beat in 4 large eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg mixes in well before adding the next. After that, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Mix until just combined to keep the brownies tender.

Baking Process

Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Carefully fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of crushed pretzel pieces. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over this layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the caramel into the batter. Pour the rest of the brownie batter on top. Smooth it out and drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on the top layer. You can swirl it again for a pretty finish.

Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Cooling and Cutting the Brownies

After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are cool, cut the brownies into squares. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each brownie. This little touch enhances the sweet and salty flavors, making them even more irresistible.

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Perfect Texture

To get the best texture for your brownies, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. Use room temperature eggs to help them mix well. The butter should be melted but not hot. This helps combine the ingredients smoothly.

Best Practices for Melting Chocolate

When melting chocolate, use low heat. You can use a double boiler or a microwave. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, about 20 seconds. Stir between each burst. This prevents the chocolate from burning. Always watch closely, as chocolate can turn from melted to burnt quickly.

Making the Caramel Sauce from Scratch

Making caramel sauce from scratch is simple. You need sugar, butter, and cream. Start by melting sugar over medium heat. Stir often until it turns amber. Then add butter and cream quickly. Be careful, as it bubbles up. Stir until smooth and let it cool before using. This homemade sauce adds a rich flavor to your brownies.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in more tender brownies.
  2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies.
  3. Choose Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your brownies. Look for a brand you enjoy eating on its own.
  4. Swirl with Care: When swirling the caramel into the batter, use a gentle hand to create beautiful marbling without fully mixing it in. This adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Variations

Adding Nuts for Extra Crunch

You can add nuts for a fun twist. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. They add a nice crunch. Mix in about 1 cup of your chosen nuts into the batter. This gives your brownies a richer texture. Plus, the nuts enhance the flavor.

Alternative Sauces and Toppings

If you want to mix it up, try different sauces. A chocolate fudge sauce can be drizzled on top. You might also like a white chocolate sauce for a different taste. For toppings, consider using crushed candy bars or sprinkles. Both options add fun and flair to your brownies.

Gluten-Free Adaptations

To make gluten-free brownies, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the treat. Your brownies will still be soft and tasty!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Brownies

After you enjoy these brownies, store the leftovers to keep them fresh. Place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and chewy. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember to let them return to room temperature before eating for the best taste.

Freezing Instructions

Freezing these brownies is easy. Cut them into squares before freezing. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature.

Reheating Tips

To reheat your brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This will revive their fudgy texture and warm up their flavors. If you prefer a microwave, heat them for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough. Enjoy them warm for a delightful treat!

FAQs

How do I know when the brownies are done?

You can check if the brownies are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The brownies should not be wet but still soft. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary. If you overbake, they may turn dry.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel for this recipe. It saves time and still tastes great. Look for a salted caramel option to match the flavor of the brownies. Just make sure it is thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you need a substitute for eggs, use unsweetened applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce. This keeps the brownies moist and adds a hint of sweetness. You can also use mashed bananas or a flaxseed mixture. To make this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes.

In this post, we explored making the best brownies. We covered ingredients, steps, and tips for the perfect bake. You learned about ingredient swaps and how quality matters. We discussed storage and answered key questions.

Cooking is fun and a great way to try new things. Experiment with different flavors and make it your own. Enjoy your baking journe

To make salted caramel pretzel brownies, gather these items: - 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks) - 2 cups granulated sugar - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup chocolate chips - 1 cup pretzel pieces (roughly crushed) - 1 cup homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Use salted butter instead of unsalted for a saltier taste. - Replace granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. - Egg substitutes like applesauce or flaxseed meal work for a vegan option. - Try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for gluten-free brownies. - Use cocoa powder alternatives like carob powder for a different taste. Using high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh eggs and real vanilla extract add flavor. Good cocoa powder ensures rich chocolate taste. When you choose quality salted caramel, it enhances your brownies' sweetness. Even the pretzels matter; crunchy, fresh pretzels add texture. Investing in these ingredients creates a better dessert experience. You want each bite to be delicious and memorable. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy release after baking. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once the butter melts, remove it from the heat. Stir in 2 cups of granulated sugar until smooth. Next, beat in 4 large eggs one at a time. Make sure each egg mixes in well before adding the next. After that, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold this dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Mix until just combined to keep the brownies tender. Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Carefully fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of crushed pretzel pieces. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over this layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the caramel into the batter. Pour the rest of the brownie batter on top. Smooth it out and drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on the top layer. You can swirl it again for a pretty finish. Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Use the parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Place them on a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are cool, cut the brownies into squares. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each brownie. This little touch enhances the sweet and salty flavors, making them even more irresistible. To get the best texture for your brownies, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. This keeps the brownies soft and chewy. Use room temperature eggs to help them mix well. The butter should be melted but not hot. This helps combine the ingredients smoothly. When melting chocolate, use low heat. You can use a double boiler or a microwave. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts, about 20 seconds. Stir between each burst. This prevents the chocolate from burning. Always watch closely, as chocolate can turn from melted to burnt quickly. Making caramel sauce from scratch is simple. You need sugar, butter, and cream. Start by melting sugar over medium heat. Stir often until it turns amber. Then add butter and cream quickly. Be careful, as it bubbles up. Stir until smooth and let it cool before using. This homemade sauce adds a rich flavor to your brownies. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in more tender brownies. Don't Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense brownies. Choose Quality Chocolate: Using high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your brownies. Look for a brand you enjoy eating on its own. Swirl with Care: When swirling the caramel into the batter, use a gentle hand to create beautiful marbling without fully mixing it in. This adds both flavor and visual appeal. {{image_4}} You can add nuts for a fun twist. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well. They add a nice crunch. Mix in about 1 cup of your chosen nuts into the batter. This gives your brownies a richer texture. Plus, the nuts enhance the flavor. If you want to mix it up, try different sauces. A chocolate fudge sauce can be drizzled on top. You might also like a white chocolate sauce for a different taste. For toppings, consider using crushed candy bars or sprinkles. Both options add fun and flair to your brownies. To make gluten-free brownies, swap the all-purpose flour. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the treat. Your brownies will still be soft and tasty! After you enjoy these brownies, store the leftovers to keep them fresh. Place them in an airtight container. This will help keep them moist and chewy. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is a good option. Just remember to let them return to room temperature before eating for the best taste. Freezing these brownies is easy. Cut them into squares before freezing. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply take out what you need and let them thaw at room temperature. To reheat your brownies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the brownies on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 minutes. This will revive their fudgy texture and warm up their flavors. If you prefer a microwave, heat them for about 15-20 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough. Enjoy them warm for a delightful treat! You can check if the brownies are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. The brownies should not be wet but still soft. Bake them for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on them as oven times can vary. If you overbake, they may turn dry. Yes, you can use store-bought caramel for this recipe. It saves time and still tastes great. Look for a salted caramel option to match the flavor of the brownies. Just make sure it is thick enough to hold its shape when drizzled. If you need a substitute for eggs, use unsweetened applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce. This keeps the brownies moist and adds a hint of sweetness. You can also use mashed bananas or a flaxseed mixture. To make this, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. In this post, we explored making the best brownies. We covered ingredients, steps, and tips for the perfect bake. You learned about ingredient swaps and how quality matters. We discussed storage and answered key questions. Cooking is fun and a great way to try new things. Experiment with different flavors and make it your own. Enjoy your baking journey!

Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Decadent brownies with a swirl of salted caramel and crunchy pretzel pieces.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 cup pretzel pieces
  • 1 cup salted caramel sauce

Instructions
 

  • Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release after baking.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once fully melted, remove from heat and incorporate the granulated sugar, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully integrated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until the mixture is homogenous.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the brownies tender.
  • Carefully fold in the chocolate chips and crushed pretzel pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
  • Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the layer of brownie batter. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl it into the batter for a marbled effect.
  • Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the caramel layer and smooth it out. Drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce over this layer and create another swirl if desired for added visual appeal.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.
  • Once baked, allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Using the parchment paper, lift the brownies out of the pan and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Once completely cool, cut into squares and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each brownie just before serving to enhance the flavors.

Notes

Serve with extra salted caramel drizzle and whole pretzels for garnish.
Keyword brownies, pretzels, salted caramel

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