Description
These Decadent Pretzel Bottom Caramel Brownies combine the rich, fudgy texture of classic chocolate brownies with a crunchy pretzel base and luscious caramel drizzle. Perfect for a sweet and salty treat, this dessert balances the deep cocoa flavor with bursts of saltiness and gooey caramel, making every bite irresistibly indulgent.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup high-quality cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Layers
- 2 cups pretzels (regular or chocolate-covered)
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth and well combined. Then add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep brownies tender.
- Layer Batter and Pretzels: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan. Then layer the pretzels evenly over the batter and drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the pretzels to create the signature salty-sweet layer.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter on top of the pretzel and caramel layer, spreading carefully to cover without disturbing the layers underneath.
- Bake: Bake the brownies in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out slightly sticky but not wet for perfectly gooey brownies.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 16 servings. This helps the layers set and makes for cleaner slices.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder and real butter.
- You can substitute the caramel sauce with homemade caramel for a more personalized touch.
- Be careful not to overbake to maintain gooey brownie texture.
- Chocolate-covered pretzels add an extra chocolate hit if desired.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
