Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels
Indulging in a sweet and salty treat is one of life’s simple pleasures, and these Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels embody that delightful combination perfectly. Imagine a soft, chewy blondie packed with rich caramel bits, semisweet chocolate chips, and the satisfying crunch of pretzels, all topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or simply craving a sweet snack, these blondies will surely hit the spot.
Why Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels is Worth Your Time
These Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The texture is incredibly satisfying, with a soft interior contrasted by the crispness of the pretzels. The balance of sweet and salty flavors makes each bite irresistible. Plus, they are simple to make and require minimal equipment, making them a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why these blondies have earned a special place in the hearts of dessert lovers everywhere.
Ingredient Notes
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the blondies, providing structure and a chewy texture.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the blondies rise and creates a light, fluffy texture.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
- Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the blondies; make sure it’s melted and cooled before using.
- Light Brown Sugar: This gives the blondies a deep, caramel-like flavor and keeps them moist.
- Large Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the blondies’ structure.
- Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Kraft Caramel Bits: The star of the show that creates pockets of melty caramel throughout the blondies.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips: Adds a rich, chocolatey flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
- Mini Pretzel Twists: Provides a crunchy texture and salty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet elements.
- Flaky Sea Salt: Optional, but a sprinkle on top elevates the flavor and adds a gourmet touch.
Tools of the Trade
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple for mixing your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk is essential for incorporating air into your batter.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for folding in the caramel bits, chocolate chips, and pretzels without overmixing.
- 9×9-inch Baking Pan: The right size for achieving thick and chewy blondies.
- Parchment Paper: Lining the pan makes for easy removal and cleanup.
Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels: How It’s Done
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper for added insurance.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Set this bowl aside.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine ½ cup of melted and cooled unsalted butter with 1 cup of packed light brown sugar. Mix well until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then, add in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, stirring until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 6: Fold in the Goodies
Gently fold in 1 cup of Kraft Caramel Bits, 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup of broken mini pretzel twists. The goal is to evenly distribute these delightful add-ins without overworking the batter.
Step 7: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly. If desired, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt over the top for that gourmet touch. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the blondies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, use the parchment overhang to lift them out and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.
Better Choices & Swaps
- Gluten-Free Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
- Coconut Oil: Swap out the unsalted butter for melted coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Dark Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
- Maple Syrup or Agave: For a different sweetness profile, consider using maple syrup or agave in place of brown sugar (adjust the flour slightly to account for the extra liquid).
Missteps & Fixes
Even the best bakers run into hiccups. Here are some common missteps and how to fix them:
- Blondies are too dry: This could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
- Too crumbly: Ensure you measured your flour correctly. Too much flour can lead to dryness. Use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
- Not mixing enough: If you don’t combine the wet and dry ingredients enough, your blondies may be uneven in texture. Aim for just combined, with a few lumps remaining.
Storage & Reheat Guide
To keep your Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Simply wrap each blondie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.
Common Questions
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or walnuts would make a delicious addition to the blondies, adding even more texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of Kraft Caramel Bits?
If you can’t find Kraft Caramel Bits, you can chop up soft caramel candies or even use a homemade caramel sauce, but be aware that this may change the texture slightly.
Can I make these blondies ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake these blondies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely.
How do I know when my blondies are done baking?
Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. The edges should look set and slightly pull away from the sides of the pan.
More from the Kitchen
- Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
- Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
- Lemon Blueberry Muffins
Final Bite
There’s something truly magical about the combination of sweet and salty, and these Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels deliver that in every delicious bite. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home. Once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to these irresistible blondies!
Salted Caramel Blondies with Pretzels
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and kosher salt.
- Step 4: In another bowl, combine melted butter and brown sugar until smooth, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Step 5: Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Step 6: Fold in caramel bits, chocolate chips, and pretzel twists.
- Step 7: Pour batter into the pan, spread evenly, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Step 8: Cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice into squares once completely cooled.
Notes
- Store blondies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For freezing, wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Check for doneness a few minutes before the baking time is up.
