Introduction to Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Have you ever found yourself craving something sweet but also a little salty?
Let me introduce you to my favorite indulgence: Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies!
These delightful treats are the perfect antidote for a busy day or a gathering with friends.
They combine rich caramel, crunchy pretzels, and a soft blondie base that’s simply irresistible.
Whether you need a quick dessert solution or want to impress your loved ones,
this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds.
Trust me, you’ll want to keep these gems on hand!
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are a true game-changer in the dessert world!
They come together quickly, making them perfect for busy moms and professionals like us.
Plus, the sweet and salty combination makes each bite a delightful surprise.
You can whip them up in no time and watch your family devour them in minutes.
Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Gathering ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies is part of the fun!
Here’s what you’ll need to create these sweet and salty delights.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: The star of the show! Homemade is best, adding richness to your blondies.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and caramel. I prefer to use organic sugar for a cleaner taste.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds moisture and richness. Room temperature butter blends seamlessly!
- Heavy Whipping Cream: Contributes to the creamy texture of your caramel. You can also use half-and-half in a pinch.
- Fine Sea Salt: A little salt elevates the flavors. Choose a high-quality salt for the best results.
Now, let’s talk about the blondie base:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your blondie, giving it structure. Whole wheat flour can be a healthier alternative.
- Baking Powder: This helps your blondies rise and become fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best effect!
- Light Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle depth of flavor and moisture. If you prefer a deeper flavor, use dark brown sugar.
- Egg: Binds everything together; room temperature eggs mix in better.
- Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract: Infuses a delightful aroma and taste. I swear by vanilla bean paste for that gourmet touch.
- Mini Pretzel Twists: The star crunch element! You can use regular pretzels, but mini ones create a better texture.
- Chocolate Chips: Adds that velvety sweetness. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works wonders here.
For garnish, don’t forget:
- Mini Pretzel Twists: More crunch on top for visual flair.
- Sea Salt: Optional, but a sprinkle elevates the flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Extra chocolate never hurt anyone—add them on top for a delicious finish!
- Salted Caramel Sauce: A luxurious drizzle to complete your masterpiece.
For exact measurements, make sure to check the bottom of the article where I’ve provided everything for easy printing!
How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Making the Salted Caramel Sauce
To get started, let’s whip up a dreamy salted caramel sauce that will elevate these blondies to another level.
Grab a medium-sized saucepan and set it over medium heat.
Pour in the granulated sugar and start stirring with a spatula.
You’ll notice it clumping and melting into a light golden syrup. Keep an eye on it—stir continuously to avoid scorching.
Once you reach that amber hue, lower the heat and whisk in the butter until it completely dissolves.
Next, slowly stream in the warmed heavy cream while whisking like a pro.
The mixture will bubble up, but don’t fret; it’s all part of the magic! Add your fine sea salt, whisk until smooth, and remove it from the heat.
Let it cool for a minute, and you’re done! Your caramel is ready to drizzle over those heavenly blondies!
Preparing the Blondie Base
Now, let’s move on to the blondie base. Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F).
Grease a 20×20 cm baking pan with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper—this will help your blondies pop right out later!
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, and once it’s melted, let it cool for a few minutes.
While that’s cooling, grab a medium mixing bowl and whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. Whisk them together until smooth and glossy.
Then, add your egg and vanilla bean paste, mixing until just combined.
Now, it’s time to incorporate the dry ingredients. Gently fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until you can’t see any flour streaks.
But hold on—don’t overmix! We want our blondies to stay delightfully tender.
Combining Ingredients
Next up, it’s time to fold in those crunchy mini pretzel twists and luscious chocolate chips.
Use a spatula to gently combine them into the batter. Be careful not to overmix, as it can lead to dense blondies!
You want to keep that light and chewy texture. Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan, and it’s ready for the oven.
Baking the Blondies
Now, let’s bake those beauties! Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and set your timer for 35 to 45 minutes.
You’ll know they’re done when the top turns a lovely golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.
If you notice the edges browning too quickly, tent the pan with aluminum foil. This will help them bake evenly without burning.
Once baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooling and Serving
Patience is key here! Allow your blondies to cool completely in the pan for the best texture.
Once they are cool, use the parchment paper to lift them out and onto a cutting board.
Slice into 16 squares (or whatever size you prefer), and get ready to serve.
Drizzle with that luscious salted caramel sauce, and add a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.
You’ve created something truly divine—enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
- Always stir the caramel constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Do not overmix the blondie batter; a few flour streaks are okay.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting for better texture.
- Experiment with different toppings for unique flavor combinations.
Equipment Needed for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
- Medium Saucepan: Use for making the caramel sauce. A non-stick pan works too!
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need both medium and large sizes. Glass or metal—your choice!
- Whisk: Essential for blending. A fork can work if you’re in a pinch!
- Parchment Paper: Helps with easy removal. Aluminum foil is a good alternative.
- Rubber Spatula: For folding ingredients. A wooden spoon can substitute if needed!
Variations for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
- Caramel Swirl: Instead of drizzling, swirl some salted caramel sauce into the blondie batter for a marbled effect.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Vegan Option: Swap the egg for flaxseed meal mixed with water and use vegan butter and chocolate chips.
Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Present on a wooden platter, drizzled with extra salted caramel for a stunning display.
- Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
I know you might have a few questions swirling around in your mind about these delightful Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies.
Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered with some of the most common queries I’ve heard.
Can I make the salted caramel sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the salted caramel sauce a few days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently when you’re ready to use it.
How should I store the blondies?
Keep these delicious treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I add nuts or other toppings?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, are fantastic additions. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate or even sprinkle some sea salt on top for an extra punch of flavor.
What if I’m not a fan of pretzels?
No problem at all! You can replace the pretzels with crushed graham crackers or even toffee pieces for that sweet and salty combination.
Can I make these blondies gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, and you’ll have a gluten-free version that’s just as scrumptious!
Final Thoughts
Baking Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies is more than just a culinary adventure; it’s about creating moments of joy and connection.
The perfect blend of sweet, salty, and crunchy brings family and friends together around the dessert table,
creating memories that linger long after the last bite.
Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or surprising your loved ones, these blondies are sure to impress.
So roll up your sleeves, whip up a batch, and savor every mouthful of bliss.
Trust me, you’ll be baking these again and again!
Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 squares 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously sweet and salty blondies made with a rich salted caramel sauce and crunchy pretzels.
Ingredients
- Salted Caramel Sauce
- 200 g granulated sugar
- 85 g unsalted butter, room temperature
- 120 ml heavy whipping cream, slightly warmed
- 2.5 g fine sea salt
- Blondie Base
- 225 g unsalted butter
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 1.25 ml baking powder
- 1.25 ml fine sea salt
- 160 g light brown sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 10 ml vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
- 60 g mini pretzel twists, roughly chopped
- 170 g chocolate chips, plus extra for garnish
- Garnish
- 16 mini pretzel twists
- Sea salt, for finishing (optional)
- Chocolate chips, additional
- Salted caramel sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, continuously stir the granulated sugar with a spatula until it clumps, melts, and turns a light golden color.
- Once the sugar is melted and reaches an amber hue, reduce heat to low and whisk in the butter until smooth.
- Slowly stream in the warmed heavy cream while whisking. Add fine sea salt, return heat to medium, and whisk until smooth and bubbling. Remove from heat and let cool for 1 minute.
- Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease a 20×20 cm baking pan with nonstick spray and line with parchment paper.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat, then set aside to cool slightly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, light brown sugar, egg, and vanilla until glossy and homogenous.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped pretzels and chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Spread the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–45 minutes or until golden and a toothpick in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Allow the blondies to cool completely. Drizzle with salted caramel sauce and garnish with mini pretzel twists, additional chocolate chips, and sea salt if desired.
- Lift the cooled blondies from the pan using parchment paper and cut into 16 squares to serve.
Notes
- Make sure to stir the caramel continuously to avoid burning.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting to maintain their texture.
- Adjust the amount of sea salt on top according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
