Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies

Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy. Imagine biting into a rich, buttery blondie loaded with pockets of gooey salted caramel, studded with crunchy pretzels, and melted chocolate chips that add a luscious texture and flavor. This delightful dessert combines the best of all worlds—a chewy, soft base with the irresistible crunch of pretzels and the decadence of salted caramel. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a delicious snack, these blondies are sure to impress.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies recipe has been tested multiple times to ensure it delivers consistent results every time. The balance of ingredients creates a tender, chewy texture without being overly dense or cakey. Using room temperature butter and egg helps the batter mix smoothly, while the precise measurements of sugar and flour guarantee the perfect sweetness and structure. The recipe also incorporates both granulated and light brown sugar to add depth of flavor and moisture. The addition of sea salt enhances the salted caramel flavor and complements the sweetness beautifully. Plus, the optional mini pretzels and chocolate chips make each bite a delightful surprise.

What to Buy

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature or slightly softened)
• ½ cup heavy whipping cream (slightly warmed)
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract
• 1 cup mini pretzel twists (roughly chopped, optional)
• 1 cup chocolate chips (plus extra for garnish)
• 16 mini pretzel twists (for topping)
• Sea salt (for garnish, optional)
• Salted caramel sauce (homemade recipe below or store-bought)

What’s in the Gear List

• Baking pan (8×8-inch square) – perfect for uniform blondies
• Mixing bowls – one large, one for wet ingredients
• Whisk and rubber spatula – for smooth mixing and folding
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient portions
• Electric mixer or hand mixer (optional) – makes mixing easier
• Cooling rack – to cool your blondies evenly
• Knife or bench scraper – for cutting blondies into neat squares

The Method for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the blondies once baked. Lightly grease the parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter (room temperature) with 1 cup granulated sugar and ½ cup light brown sugar. Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy. This step is essential as it incorporates air and helps give your blondies a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract until fully combined. The egg should be at room temperature to ensure the batter emulsifies properly and results in a smooth texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon fine sea salt. This ensures the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed, which is essential for the blondies to rise properly.

Step 5: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your blondies tender and chewy.

Step 6: Fold in Pretzels and Chocolate Chips

Fold in 1 cup roughly chopped mini pretzels and 1 cup chocolate chips, saving a handful of chocolate chips and pretzels for garnish on top. These add delightful crunch and melty chocolate pockets throughout the blondies.

Step 7: Assemble the Salted Caramel Layer

Pour half of the blondie batter into the prepared pan and smooth it out evenly. Drizzle half of your salted caramel sauce over the batter. Then, add the remaining batter on top and spread gently. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top, swirling it lightly with a knife or skewer to create a marbled effect.

Step 8: Garnish and Sprinkle Sea Salt

Sprinkle the reserved chocolate chips and mini pretzel twists evenly over the top. Lightly sprinkle a pinch of fine sea salt to enhance the salted caramel flavor.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake; you want the blondies to remain soft and chewy.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the blondies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out, then slice into squares. Serve with extra salted caramel sauce if desired for an indulgent treat.

Smart Substitutions

• Butter: You can swap unsalted butter for a plant-based margarine if preferred, but ensure it’s suitable for baking.
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Use full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, warmed gently before use.
• Vanilla Bean Paste or Extract: Almond extract can be used for a different but delicious flavor profile.
• Chocolate Chips: Use dairy-free chocolate chips if avoiding dairy or chopped dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Pretzels: Swap mini pretzels for crushed salted crackers for a different salty crunch.

Little Things that Matter

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs helps the batter mix more smoothly and traps air for better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Once the flour is added, mix just until combined to avoid tough blondies.
• Salt Balance: The sprinkle of sea salt on top is the finishing touch that balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Caramel Sauce: Using a rich, high-quality salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought) elevates the flavor tremendously.
• Cooling Completely: Letting the blondies cool fully before cutting prevents them from crumbling and helps the caramel set.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store these Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the blondies in a sealed container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 10-15 seconds if you prefer them warm—perfect for melting the chocolate chips and caramel slightly.

FAQ

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help maintain the texture.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

You can, but reduce the additional sea salt slightly to avoid the blondies becoming too salty. The recipe already includes sea salt, so a little balance adjustment helps.

How do I make the salted caramel sauce from scratch?

To make salted caramel sauce, melt 1 cup granulated sugar over medium heat until it turns amber. Carefully add 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in ½ cup warmed heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add ½ teaspoon fine sea salt and simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Let cool before using.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a wonderful addition and pair beautifully with the salted caramel and pretzels.

Cook This Next

• Salted Caramel Brownies – For a chocolatey twist on salted caramel treats.
• Soft Pretzel Bites – Satisfy your pretzel cravings with this easy recipe.
• One-Bowl Banana Bread – A quick and wholesome bake perfect for breakfast or snack.
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – Always a crowd-pleaser with melty chocolate chips.

Final Bite

Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are a decadent, irresistible treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. The combination of chewy blondie base, salty pretzels, gooey caramel, and melty chocolate is pure magic in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or indulging in a cozy night at home, these blondies deliver the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite go-to dessert that everyone will ask you to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the sweet and salty bliss of Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies!

Share on Pinterest