If you love sweet and salty treats, you’ll want to try these Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies. This recipe blends rich, fudgy brownies with creamy caramel and crunchy pretzels for a perfect bite. I’ll guide you step-by-step, sharing tips and tricks to make your brownies come out amazing every time. Let’s dive into this irresistible delight that you won’t be able to resist!
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Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 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 fine salt
- 1 cup pretzel pieces (roughly crushed)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Flaky sea salt for garnish
Tips for Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. For butter, choose unsalted for better control over salt flavor. Always check the expiration date on eggs. Fresh eggs will whip better and add more lift. For flour and cocoa powder, keep them stored in a cool, dry place. Pretzels should be crunchy, so avoid using stale ones.
Recommended Brands for Key Ingredients
I often use Kerrygold for butter; it has a rich taste. For sugar, Domino is my go-to brand because it dissolves easily. When it comes to chocolate chips, Ghirardelli offers a nice melt and flavor. For caramel sauce, Fat Toad Farm has a great texture and sweetness. Using these brands enhances the overall taste of your brownies.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First, you need to get your oven ready. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Next, grab a 9x13-inch baking pan. You can either grease it with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This will help you take the brownies out easily later on.
Making the Brownie Batter
Start by melting 1 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir it now and then until it is fully melted and bubbly. Remove the pan from heat and mix in 2 cups of granulated sugar. Make sure it is smooth. Let it cool for about 5 minutes so you don’t cook the eggs.
Now, add 4 large eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In another bowl, whisk 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of fine salt.
Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet mix using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps the brownies soft. Next, gently fold in 1 cup of pretzel pieces and 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Layering with Salted Caramel
Pour half of your brownie batter into the prepared pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Drizzle half of your salted caramel sauce over this layer. Then, pour the rest of the brownie batter on top, covering as much as you can.
Add dollops of the remaining salted caramel sauce on the top. Use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the batter. This creates a beautiful marbled look.
Now, bake your brownies for about 30-35 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should have a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. Once baked, let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Brownie Texture
To get brownies that are soft and chewy, you must not overmix the batter. Mix until just combined. This keeps your brownies tender. Use room temperature eggs for even mixing. They blend better with the other ingredients. Make sure to measure your flour correctly; too much flour makes brownies dry.
How to Swirl Caramel for Aesthetic Appeal
Swirling caramel adds beauty to your brownies. Pour dollops of salted caramel on top of the batter. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl it in. Don’t mix too much, or you will lose the swirl. Aim for a marbled look that shows both brownie and caramel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls for the best results. First, don’t skip cooling the butter-sugar mixture. If it’s too hot, it will cook the eggs. Next, watch the baking time closely. Baking too long can dry out your brownies. Lastly, don’t forget the flaky sea salt on top. It enhances the flavors and adds a nice crunch.
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Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can easily make gluten-free salted caramel pretzel brownies. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a good gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps mimic the texture of regular flour. Make sure your pretzels are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free pretzels that taste great.
Alternative Toppings and Mix-Ins
Get creative with your toppings and mix-ins! You can use nuts like pecans or walnuts for crunch. Chopped candy bars like Snickers add a fun twist. You might even try adding crushed Oreos for a different flavor. Drizzle more caramel sauce on top for extra sweetness. A sprinkle of sea salt finishes your creation beautifully.
Using Different Types of Caramel
You can use various types of caramel in these brownies. For a richer taste, try dark caramel. If you like a milder flavor, go for light caramel. You can also use butterscotch sauce for a unique twist. Homemade caramel sauce adds a special touch too. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when baked.
Storage Info
Best Storage Methods
Store your salted caramel pretzel brownies in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you stack them, place parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and makes for easy serving.
How Long Do They Last?
When stored properly, brownies can last up to five days at room temperature. They stay good for about a week in the fridge. If you want them to last longer, freezing is your best option.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze brownies, cut them into squares first. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped brownies in a freezer bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce. It saves time and can taste great. Just choose a brand that you enjoy. Look for a sauce that is smooth and creamy. This will blend well with your brownies. If you want, feel free to use homemade caramel for a richer flavor.
How do I know when brownies are done baking?
To check if your brownies are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. If it comes out clean, your brownies may be overbaked. Keep an eye on the time, but start checking at 30 minutes. The perfect brownie is soft but not gooey.
What can I serve with Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies?
These brownies shine on their own, but you can pair them with vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream balances the sweet and salty flavors. You might also serve them with whipped cream or extra caramel sauce on the side. Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavor. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings!
This blog post guided you through making Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies. We explored the best ingredients, prep steps, and tips for perfect texture. I also shared important variations and storage methods.
Remember, fresh ingredients and careful baking will give you tasty results. Avoid common mistakes to enjoy a perfect treat. Try different toppings and caramel types to make it yours. Enjoy baking!
