Description
Pretzel Bottom Caramel Brownies combine a crunchy, salty pretzel crust with rich, fudgy chocolate brownies swirled with luscious caramel sauce. This delightful dessert balances sweet and salty flavors perfectly, making it a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups pretzel pieces
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Brownie Batter
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine pretzel pieces, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crunchy crust.
- Melt Chocolate and Butter: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with 1/2 cup unsalted butter, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix Brownie Batter: Whisk the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract into the melted chocolate mixture until well combined. Stir in the flour and salt until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble Brownies: Pour the brownie batter evenly over the pretzel crust in the pan.
- Swirl Caramel: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the brownie batter, then use a knife to gently swirl it into the surface for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Finish: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting. Sprinkle sea salt on top if desired to enhance the sweet and salty flavor balance.
Notes
- Use soft caramel sauce for easier swirling into the brownie batter.
- Optional: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chunks to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Let brownies cool completely before cutting to prevent cracking and ensure clean slices.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
