Description
These Decadent Pretzel Bottom Caramel Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate brownie layers with a crunchy pretzel base and a luscious caramel drizzle, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Ideal for dessert lovers seeking a decadent, textured treat that’s simple to make.
Ingredients
Scale
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (dark preferred)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder (high-quality)
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
Layering
- 2 cups pretzels (regular or chocolate-covered)
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prep the 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.
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the melted butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a smooth mixture.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Layer the first batter and pretzels: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Then, layer the pretzels evenly over the batter to add a crunchy texture.
- Add caramel sauce: Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the pretzel layer, ensuring an even distribution for a rich caramel flavor throughout the brownie.
- Top with remaining batter: Pour the remaining brownie batter on top carefully, spreading it gently to cover the pretzel and caramel layers without disturbing them.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out slightly sticky but not wet, achieving a gooey and fudgy texture.
- Cool and serve: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting. This helps set the layers and makes cutting easier for clean squares.
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for the best chocolate flavor.
- To make your own caramel sauce, gently melt sugar and butter together with a splash of cream.
- Chocolate-covered pretzels can add an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a firmer texture, bake a few extra minutes but avoid drying out the brownies.
