Save Decadent fudgy brownie bites with a crunchy pretzel base, topped with gooey salted caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. The perfect sweet-and-salty treat for any occasion.
I’ve always enjoyed making treats that bring together contrasting flavors and textures, and these salted caramel pretzel brownie bites quickly became a family favorite.
Ingredients
- For the Pretzel Base: 1 ½ cups (90 g) mini pretzels crushed, 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter melted
- For the Brownie Batter: ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar, ½ cup (90 g) brown sugar packed, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour, ½ cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, ¼ tsp salt
- For the Salted Caramel: 20 soft caramels unwrapped, 2 tbsp (30 ml) heavy cream, flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 24-cup mini muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- Make Pretzel Base:
- Mix crushed pretzels with melted butter. Divide evenly among muffin cups and press firmly to form a base.
- Prepare Brownie Batter:
- Melt butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in sugars until combined and slightly cooled. Add eggs and vanilla extract whisking until smooth. Sift in flour cocoa powder and salt. Fold gently until just combined.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Spoon brownie batter over the pretzel base filling each cup nearly to the top. Bake for 13-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes then transfer to a rack.
- Make Salted Caramel:
- Melt caramels with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second bursts stirring until smooth.
- Finish:
- Spoon a dollop of caramel over each brownie bite. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow caramel to set for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Pin it These brownie bites always bring smiles at our family gatherings and are a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Notes
For extra crunch top with chopped pretzels before the caramel sets. Substitute store-bought caramel sauce if desired. Pair with a glass of cold milk or a robust coffee.
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin (24-count), mixing bowls, whisk, microwave-safe bowl, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) dairy eggs. Contains potential traces of peanuts or tree nuts if using commercial pretzels or caramels. Always check ingredient labels for allergens.
Pin it These salted caramel pretzel brownie bites combine the perfect balance of flavors and textures to delight your guests at any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I achieve a crunchy pretzel base?
Crush mini pretzels finely and mix with melted butter before pressing firmly into the muffin cups. Baking ensures it sets into a crisp foundation.
- → Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead?
Yes, substituting caramel sauce is possible. Simply spoon it over the cooled brownies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a similar flavor profile.
- → What’s the best way to melt caramels smoothly?
Heat soft caramels with heavy cream in short 30-second bursts in the microwave, stirring between each until fully melted and smooth.
- → How can I store these bites for freshness?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Allow to come to room temp before serving.
- → Can I make these gluten-free?
Replacing pretzels with a gluten-free crunchy substitute may work, but adjust accordingly as textures and baking times could vary.