Introduction to Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore these Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies! They’re the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you need a quick dessert for a family gathering or a special surprise for your loved ones, these blondies are sure to impress. Plus, they come together in no time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying life!
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are a game-changer for busy days. They’re incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The combination of gooey caramel and crunchy pretzels creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, they’re perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Unsalted butter: This adds richness and moisture to the blondies. Melt it for a smooth batter.
- Brown sugar: It gives a deep, caramel-like flavor and helps keep the blondies chewy.
- Granulated sugar: This balances the sweetness and contributes to the blondies’ lovely texture.
- Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add structure to the blondies.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the blondies, providing the necessary structure.
- Baking powder: This helps the blondies rise, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Pretzels: Crushed for that delightful crunch and salty contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Salted caramel sauce: The star of the show! It adds gooey sweetness and a touch of decadence.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray for this. A well-greased pan ensures your blondies come out easily, without any sticky surprises. Trust me, you want to avoid that!
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until everything is well blended and smooth. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix again until the batter is creamy and inviting. This mixture is the heart of your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies, so take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma as you whisk!
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is essential for ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent. It helps your blondies rise beautifully. Make sure there are no lumps in the flour. A smooth mixture will lead to a delightful texture in your finished treat. It’s all about those little details!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want just enough to combine everything. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. This is where the magic begins, as the flavors meld together into a deliciously sweet base for your blondies!
Step 5: Add Pretzels and Caramel
Fold in the crushed pretzels and half of the salted caramel sauce. This is where the fun really starts! The pretzels add that delightful crunch, while the caramel brings a gooey sweetness. Make sure everything is evenly distributed, but don’t overdo it. You want those pretzel pieces to shine through in every bite, creating a perfect balance of textures.
Step 6: Bake the Blondies
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on top for that extra touch of decadence. Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The anticipation will be worth it!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them set up nicely. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut them into squares and serve. You’ll be amazed at how quickly they disappear. Enjoy every sweet, salty bite!
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be slightly lumpy.
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting for cleaner edges.
- Experiment with different types of pretzels for unique flavors.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for blondies; you can use a glass or metal pan.
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing; a fork can work in a pinch.
- Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients; a wooden spoon is a good alternative.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; you can use a kitchen scale if preferred.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Bliss: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free treat.
- Vegan Version: Use coconut oil instead of butter, flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and dairy-free caramel sauce.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce on top for added indulgence.
- Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle with sea salt and serve on a decorative platter.
FAQs about Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Can I use store-bought salted caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Using store-bought salted caramel sauce can save you time and still deliver that delicious flavor. Just make sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best results.
How do I store leftover blondies?
To keep your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to two months!
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes! These blondies are perfect for making ahead. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just remember to let them cool completely before cutting and storing.
What can I substitute for pretzels?
If you’re not a fan of pretzels, you can substitute them with crushed graham crackers or even nuts for a different texture. Just keep in mind that the salty crunch of pretzels is part of what makes these blondies so special!
Can I add chocolate chips to the blondies?
Definitely! Adding chocolate chips is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor. Just fold in a cup of your favorite chocolate chips along with the pretzels for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
Final Thoughts
Making Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of mixing those ingredients, the delightful aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take that first bite are priceless. These blondies are a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making them a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself, these blondies will surely bring happiness to your day. So, roll up your sleeves and enjoy the sweet adventure of baking!
Print
Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies: A Must-Try Sweet Treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 24 blondies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are a deliciously sweet and salty dessert that combines the rich flavor of blondies with crunchy pretzels and gooey caramel.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pretzels, crushed
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the crushed pretzels and half of the salted caramel sauce.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
- Drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before cutting into squares and serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These blondies can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 blondie
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
