Get ready for a sweet treat that will blow you away! Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are the perfect mix of rich chocolate, crunchy pretzels, and gooey caramel. If you crave that perfect balance of salty and sweet, this recipe is for you. I’ll guide you step-by-step so you can create this delightful dessert at home. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these brownies together!
Ingredients
To make Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies, you need the following ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) 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
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup pretzels, crushed
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Flaky sea salt for topping
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect brownie. The unsalted butter adds richness, while granulated sugar sweetens the mix. Large eggs help bind everything together, and vanilla extract adds a lovely flavor. Using all-purpose flour and cocoa powder gives that classic brownie texture and taste. Baking powder helps the brownies rise, and salt enhances all the flavors.
Crushed pretzels provide a salty crunch that balances the sweetness of the caramel sauce. Lastly, the flaky sea salt on top adds a delightful finish. This combination is truly what makes these brownies irresistible!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation and Preheating
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper, leaving some paper hanging over the edges. This helps with easy removal later.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
– Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat.
– Once melted, take it off the heat and let it cool slightly.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with 2 cups of granulated sugar.
– Whisk them together until well blended.
– Add 4 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
– Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Incorporating the Dry Ingredients
– In a separate bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
– Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
– Be careful not to overmix; stop as soon as a batter forms.
Adding Pretzels and Caramel
– Fold in 1 cup of crushed pretzels into the batter.
– Reserve a handful of pretzels for topping later.
– Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
– Drizzle half of the 1 cup of caramel sauce over the batter.
– Add the remaining brownie batter on top and drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce.
– Use a knife to swirl the batter slightly for a marbled effect.
Baking Process
– Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.
– To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooling and Serving
– Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
– Use the parchment paper to lift them out and place them on a cutting board.
– Cut into squares for serving.
– For a great presentation, serve them on a rustic wooden board. Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for extra flair.
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Perfecting Your Brownies
– Achieving the right texture: To get the best brownies, focus on the mix. You want a fudgy center that stays soft. Bake just until a toothpick shows a few moist crumbs.
– Avoiding overmixing: Mix your ingredients just enough to blend. Overmixing makes your brownies tough. Stir until you see no dry flour, then stop.
– Importance of quality ingredients: Use fresh eggs and high-quality cocoa powder. Good ingredients make a big difference in flavor.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing ideas: These brownies taste great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream balances the rich chocolate. You can also serve them with fresh berries for a fruity twist.
– Recommended toppings: Drizzle extra caramel on top for a sweet touch. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors, making each bite better.
Variations
Flavor Modifications
You can change the flavor of your salted caramel pretzel brownies in fun ways. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch. Chopped nuts mix well with the soft brownie texture. You can also try toppings like chocolate chips or sprinkles for extra fun.
Using different types of caramel can add unique tastes. You may use dark caramel for a richer flavor. Or, try a vanilla caramel for a sweet twist. Store-bought caramel works well, but homemade can make it special.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap all-purpose flour with almond flour or oat flour. These alternatives work well, but they may change the texture slightly. You might need to bake the brownies a bit longer to ensure they are set.
Keep an eye on your brownies as they bake. Check for doneness using a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready!
Vegan Version
To make a vegan version of these brownies, you can replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Use flax eggs or applesauce instead of regular eggs. This keeps the brownies moist and delicious.
For the caramel, choose a vegan caramel sauce or make your own with coconut milk and brown sugar. With these swaps, you can enjoy soft and tasty brownies that fit your diet!
Storage Info
How to Store Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Line the container with parchment paper for easy removal. Place a slice of bread inside to help keep the brownies soft. They stay good for about 4 to 5 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, put them in the fridge. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing Brownies
Freezing brownies is a smart way to save extra treats. First, let the brownies cool completely. Cut them into squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you are ready to enjoy them, take out a brownie. Let it thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. You can also warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked taste!
FAQs
What is the best way to cut brownies?
To cut brownies well, use a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts. This helps keep edges neat. A ruler can help you make even squares. You could also chill the brownies for easier cutting.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes, homemade caramel sauce works great in these brownies. Just make sure it’s thick. If it’s too runny, it will make the batter soggy. A good homemade sauce adds a personal touch.
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
Check the brownies at 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are done. If it’s wet, bake a few more minutes.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder?
You can use chocolate chips, but it changes the texture. If you use them, reduce the sugar. Chocolate chips add a nice melt but may make brownies sweeter.
What size pan is best for baking brownies?
A 9×13-inch pan is best for brownies. This size allows for even baking. If you use a smaller pan, the brownies may take longer to bake. A larger pan will make thinner brownies.
In this post, we explored how to make delicious brownies with a twist. You learned about key ingredients like pretzels and caramel. We covered each step, from mixing to baking. I shared tips for perfect texture and serving ideas. Now, you can get creative with variations too.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Enjoy these brownies with friends or family for a sweet treat!
