I have a salty-sweet weakness: I always want something sweet after dinner, and if it’s very sweet I reach for a chip or cracker to balance the flavor. It’s a strange habit, but I know many people love salty-sweet combinations. Caramel and pretzels are a classic pairing — see my Caramel Pretzel Magic Bars or Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies for more ideas.
If you prefer peanut butter with pretzels instead of caramel, I’ve shared those versions too: Peanut Butter Pretzel Granola Bars and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Pretzel Bars. I enjoy experimenting with sweet-and-salty recipes and have tried many variations. For this particular recipe, be mindful of the salt: the pretzels add saltiness and a light sprinkle of flaky sea or kosher salt on top gives a nice contrast, but you can omit the finishing salt or use just a tiny pinch if you’re sensitive to salt.
Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies
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Ingredients
- 18.3 oz box family-size brownie mix, (for a 13×9″ pan)
- Ingredients called for on the brownie mix box, (for example: 1/4 cup water, 2/3 cup vegetable oil, and 2 eggs, or as directed)
- 100 mini pretzels
- 1 ½ cups thick caramel, homemade caramel or melted caramel squares with a little heavy cream; should be thick
- Kosher or sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
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Prepare the brownie batter according to the package directions.
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Grease a 13×9″ baking pan. Arrange two layers of mini pretzels evenly across the bottom of the pan.
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Pour the prepared brownie batter over the pretzels and spread it evenly.
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Bake at 350°F for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan.
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Warm the caramel slightly if needed and spread a thick layer over the cooled brownies. Chill the pan until the caramel firms so you can cut neat squares without the caramel running.
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Cut into squares and finish each piece with a light pinch of kosher or sea salt, if desired. Serve and enjoy.
Notes
- I used a crockpot caramel for this recipe, but dulce de leche or a thick store-bought caramel will also work well.
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