Save Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies deliver chewy chocolate goodness, gooey caramel ribbons, and a salty, crunchy finish. When craving a decadent treat that balances sweet and salty, these brownies always steal the show at gatherings and family nights alike.
I made them for a bake sale and watched even grownups steal seconds. These brownies quickly became our family’s go-to for rainy days and celebrations.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: brings rich moisture and chewiness Look for good quality European butter for extra flavor
- Semi-sweet chocolate: gives decadent flavor Aim for bars rather than chips and chop them finely
- Granulated sugar: sweetens and creates glossy tops Choose fine grain for best dissolving
- Eggs: add richness and help set the fudgy texture Room temperature eggs blend better
- All-purpose flour: provides structure Choose freshly milled or sift for soft brownies
- Cocoa powder: deepens the chocolate flavor Use Dutch processed for a darker hue
- Pretzel twists: add that signature salty crunch Small pretzel twists stay crisp and create beautiful tops
- Caramel sauce: becomes gooey ribbons and a sticky finish Thick homemade or high quality jarred works best
- Flaky sea salt: creates the craveable sweet salty finish Maldon or fleur de sel are wonderful here
Instructions
- Melt the Butter and Chocolate:
- Combine butter and chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl Set the bowl over a pot of gently simmering water Melt slowly stirring often until glossy and smooth Let cool slightly to avoid scrambling the eggs later
- Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk sugar into the melted chocolate mixture well Add eggs one at a time whisking briskly after each until batter looks shiny and thick This step creates that signature brownie crackle
- Sift and Fold in Dry Ingredients:
- Sift flour and cocoa together to prevent lumps Gently fold into the chocolate batter using a spatula until just combined This keeps the brownies tender
- Swirl in Caramel and Pretzels:
- Pour half the batter into your lined baking pan Dollop spoonfuls of caramel sauce and scatter a layer of crushed pretzels Swirl with a knife Cover with remaining batter and repeat with more caramel swirls and whole pretzels on top
- Bake to Fudgy Perfection:
- Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit about twenty eight to thirty one minutes Edges should look set and the middle a touch wobbly Cool completely in the pan for clean slices and gooey centers
- Top with Flaky Salt:
- While brownies are still slightly warm sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt This ensures the salt sticks and delivers perfect bites
Save I always sneak extra caramel into the middle because my sister used to fight over the gooiest slice. Watching my kids wind caramel with their spoons brings back every family brownie night memory.
Storage Tips
Brownies keep well at room temperature in an airtight container for three to four days For extra gooeyness reheat gently for a few seconds in the microwave or low oven If making ahead store in the fridge for up to a week and let come to room temperature before serving for that perfect chewy bite
Ingredient Substitutions
Try peanut butter chips in the batter or swap dark chocolate for a more bittersweet treat Gluten free flour blends work well just check pretzel labels for gluten content too Jarred caramel is quick but homemade brings deeper flavor and less sweetness
Serving Suggestions
Cut into small squares for party platters or serve slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream Drizzle with extra caramel and top with whipped cream for a stunning plated dessert Bring to picnics and school events in the baking pan brownies travel and serve easily even after a few days
Save Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies are sure to become the treat everyone asks for Make them once and your family will request them for every special moment
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of chocolate works best?
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides a rich flavor that balances the caramel's sweetness.
- → How do I ensure gooey caramel layers?
Add caramel midway through baking or swirl into the mixture before topping and finishing in the oven.
- → Should pretzels be crushed or left whole?
Crushed pretzels add texture and distribute saltiness; whole pretzels lend crunch and visual appeal.
- → How can I store brownies for freshness?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for a fudgier bite.
- → Can I substitute with gluten-free pretzels?
Yes, gluten-free pretzels work well without compromising taste or texture in the brownies.