Introduction to Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re anything like me, you know that life can get pretty hectic. Between juggling work, family, and everything in between, finding time to whip up something special can feel impossible. That’s where these Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies come in! They’re the perfect blend of sweet and salty, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy a sweet tooth after a long day, these blondies are a quick solution that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
These Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike! They come together in just 45 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying dessert option. The combination of rich caramel and crunchy pretzels creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of coffee after a long day. Trust me, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of baking! For these Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies, you’ll need a few pantry staples and some delightful extras. 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: 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 leavening agent helps the blondies rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Pretzel pieces: These add a delightful crunch and a salty contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Salted caramel sauce: The star of the show! It brings that indulgent, gooey sweetness that makes these blondies irresistible.
For those looking to switch things up, consider using dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, let’s get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect blondie texture. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. You can use butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies come out easily and don’t stick. Trust me, no one wants a blondie that’s stuck to the pan!
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 mixture is creamy and inviting. This is where the magic begins! The combination of these wet ingredients will create a rich base for your blondies, making them oh-so-delicious.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Now, let’s tackle the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour. A well-mixed dry mixture will help your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies rise beautifully. Plus, it prevents any clumps from forming, which is a win in my book!
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
It’s time to bring the wet and dry mixtures together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This is where the batter starts to take shape, and you can already imagine the deliciousness that awaits. The anticipation is half the fun, right?
Step 5: Add Pretzels and Caramel
Now comes the fun part! Fold in the pretzel pieces and half of the salted caramel sauce. The pretzels will add that delightful crunch, while the caramel brings a gooey sweetness. Make sure everything is evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step is where the sweet and salty magic happens, creating a flavor explosion in every bite of your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies.
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 indulgence. Pop the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible, and you’ll be counting down the minutes until you can dig in!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is fully melted for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
- For extra crunch, sprinkle additional pretzel pieces on top before baking.
- Let the blondies cool completely before cutting for cleaner squares.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for blondies; you can use a similar-sized dish if needed.
- Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Perfect for mixing dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch.
- Spatula: Great for folding in ingredients and spreading the batter evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, chocolatey twist.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Vegan Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs for a plant-based version.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Serve with a drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce on top for an indulgent touch.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For a festive presentation, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
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 in your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies.
How do I store leftovers?
To keep your blondies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to two months. Just make sure to wrap them well!
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes! These Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies are perfect for making ahead. Bake them a day or two in advance, and they’ll still taste amazing. Just let them cool completely before storing.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use flax eggs or applesauce. For each egg, mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This works great in your blondies!
Can I add more pretzels for extra crunch?
Definitely! If you love that salty crunch, feel free to add more pretzel pieces. Just sprinkle them on top before baking for an extra layer of texture in your Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies.
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 ingredients, the delightful aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they take that first bite are priceless. These blondies are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the delicious journey of baking. Trust me, you’ll be savoring every sweet, salty bite!
Print
Salted Caramel Pretzel Blondies: A Sweet Delight Awaits!
- 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 the crunch of pretzels and the indulgence of salted 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 pretzel pieces
- 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 pretzel pieces 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 of the batter.
- 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 crunch, top with additional pretzel pieces 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
