![- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 cup chocolate chips - 2 cups mini pretzels - 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling) - Sea salt for sprinkling To make delicious brownies with a pretzel crown, you need a mix of sweet and salty ingredients. The unsalted butter gives a rich base, while the granulated and brown sugars add sweetness. Eggs are key to binding everything together, and they bring a nice lift to the brownies. Vanilla extract adds a warm flavor that enhances the cocoa powder. The all-purpose flour and cocoa powder bring that classic brownie texture and taste. Don't forget the salt! It balances the sweet and helps the chocolate shine. Chocolate chips add even more chocolatey goodness. The mini pretzels are fun! They give a crunchy crown on top. Drizzling with caramel sauce gives a sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the salty pretzels. A sprinkle of sea salt on top boosts all the flavors. I love how these ingredients come together to create a treat that is both delightful and unique. Each bite offers a mix of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more. For the full recipe, check out the steps to make this indulgent dessert. First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking. Greasing your baking pan or lining it with parchment paper is key. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later. If the pan is not greased, the brownies may stick. In a large bowl, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk these together until smooth and creamy. This blend gives the brownies their rich flavor and texture. Make sure to mix well so all sugars dissolve. Now, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. This helps the batter hold air, making it fluffy. After adding all the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. This step is simple but very important for taste. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting breaks up clumps and helps mix the dry ingredients well. Gradually add this mix to the wet ingredients. Fold gently to combine. Be cautious not to overmix; this keeps the brownies soft. Once mixed, fold in the chocolate chips. This adds pockets of melted chocolate in each bite. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Make sure to use a spatula for smooth edges. Take your mini pretzels and press them lightly into the top of the brownie batter. This creates a fun pretzel crown. Leave a small space around the edges. This space allows the brownies to rise while baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling time helps set the brownies. While they cool, drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt. This adds a sweet and salty kick that pairs perfectly with the pretzels. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious brownies crowned with pretzels! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. To get the best brownie texture, mixing is key. You want to mix just enough. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. When you combine your dry and wet ingredients, fold them gently. Use a spatula to bring them together. This way, you keep the brownies soft and chewy. Pretzels add a nice crunch and saltiness. You can also try other toppings. Some great options are: - Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans - Mini marshmallows for a gooey touch - Crushed candy bars for extra sweetness - Sprinkles for a fun look Mix and match these toppings to make your brownies unique. Cutting brownies can be tricky if you want clean edges. Here are some tips: - Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. - Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts. - Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. - For a neater presentation, cut into squares or rectangles. These steps help you serve the brownies beautifully, making them even more tempting! {{image_2}} If you want gluten-free brownies, simple swaps work well. You can use almond flour or coconut flour. Both add a unique taste. Just remember that coconut flour absorbs more moisture. So, you may need to adjust the liquid in your recipe. Want to change things up? Try adding peanut butter, mint, or espresso. Peanut butter gives a creamy, nutty taste. Mint adds a fresh twist, perfect for mint lovers. Espresso boosts the chocolate flavor, making it richer. A little goes a long way, so start with one tablespoon. You can also mix up your toppings. Instead of mini pretzels, try different nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can add candies like M&Ms or chocolate chunks for more color and sweetness. These options make your brownies unique and fun. To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor. You can place parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and keeps them neat. Avoid leaving brownies uncovered, as they can dry out quickly. Freezing brownies is easy and helps you save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap tightly. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. To thaw, simply take out a square and leave it at room temperature for a few hours. Brownies can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. In the fridge, they can last up to a week. But remember, they may become a bit firmer. If you like them soft, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Yes, you can use dark chocolate. Just melt it first. Use about 4 ounces of dark chocolate for 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. This change adds a rich taste to the brownies. Remember to adjust the sugar since dark chocolate can be sweeter. If you need an egg substitute, use applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. You can also use mashed bananas or yogurt. These options keep your brownies moist and delicious. Check the brownies at 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. Do not overbake, as they will continue to cook while cooling. Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat brownies, use your oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them warm and soft. You can also use a microwave for a quick warm-up. Just heat for 10-15 seconds. You learned how to make brownies with a pretzel crown from scratch. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results. Customizing these brownies with different flavors or toppings makes them even more special. Store them right to keep them fresh for longer. Enjoy your baking adventure! Try sharing your creations with friends and family. They will love the sweet and salty combo. Happy baking!](https://southerndishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/7945766a-82de-4f7e-8167-d0013dc1b406-768x768.webp)
Looking for a sweet treat that’s packed with flavor? Try my Brownies with Pretzel Crown! This recipe combines soft, chewy brownies and crunchy pretzels for a perfect snack. With just the right amount of sea salt and caramel, they promise a delightful blend of sweet and salty in every bite. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this tasty dessert!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Brownies with Pretzel Crown
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chocolate chips
– 2 cups mini pretzels
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
– Sea salt for sprinkling
To make delicious brownies with a pretzel crown, you need a mix of sweet and salty ingredients. The unsalted butter gives a rich base, while the granulated and brown sugars add sweetness. Eggs are key to binding everything together, and they bring a nice lift to the brownies.
Vanilla extract adds a warm flavor that enhances the cocoa powder. The all-purpose flour and cocoa powder bring that classic brownie texture and taste. Don’t forget the salt! It balances the sweet and helps the chocolate shine.
Chocolate chips add even more chocolatey goodness. The mini pretzels are fun! They give a crunchy crown on top. Drizzling with caramel sauce gives a sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the salty pretzels. A sprinkle of sea salt on top boosts all the flavors.
I love how these ingredients come together to create a treat that is both delightful and unique. Each bite offers a mix of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more. For the full recipe, check out the steps to make this indulgent dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking. Greasing your baking pan or lining it with parchment paper is key. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later. If the pan is not greased, the brownies may stick.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk these together until smooth and creamy. This blend gives the brownies their rich flavor and texture. Make sure to mix well so all sugars dissolve.
Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla
Now, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. This helps the batter hold air, making it fluffy. After adding all the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. This step is simple but very important for taste.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting breaks up clumps and helps mix the dry ingredients well. Gradually add this mix to the wet ingredients. Fold gently to combine. Be cautious not to overmix; this keeps the brownies soft.
Assembling the Brownie Batter
Once mixed, fold in the chocolate chips. This adds pockets of melted chocolate in each bite. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Make sure to use a spatula for smooth edges.
Creating the Pretzel Crown
Take your mini pretzels and press them lightly into the top of the brownie batter. This creates a fun pretzel crown. Leave a small space around the edges. This space allows the brownies to rise while baking.
Baking and Cooling
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling time helps set the brownies. While they cool, drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt. This adds a sweet and salty kick that pairs perfectly with the pretzels. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious brownies crowned with pretzels! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Brownie Texture
To get the best brownie texture, mixing is key. You want to mix just enough. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. When you combine your dry and wet ingredients, fold them gently. Use a spatula to bring them together. This way, you keep the brownies soft and chewy.
Customizing Toppings
Pretzels add a nice crunch and saltiness. You can also try other toppings. Some great options are:
– Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans
– Mini marshmallows for a gooey touch
– Crushed candy bars for extra sweetness
– Sprinkles for a fun look
Mix and match these toppings to make your brownies unique.
Best Practices for Cutting Brownies
Cutting brownies can be tricky if you want clean edges. Here are some tips:
– Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
– Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts.
– Let the brownies cool completely before cutting.
– For a neater presentation, cut into squares or rectangles.
These steps help you serve the brownies beautifully, making them even more tempting!
Variations
Gluten-Free Brownies with Pretzel Crown
If you want gluten-free brownies, simple swaps work well. You can use almond flour or coconut flour. Both add a unique taste. Just remember that coconut flour absorbs more moisture. So, you may need to adjust the liquid in your recipe.
Adding Flavor Variations
Want to change things up? Try adding peanut butter, mint, or espresso. Peanut butter gives a creamy, nutty taste. Mint adds a fresh twist, perfect for mint lovers. Espresso boosts the chocolate flavor, making it richer. A little goes a long way, so start with one tablespoon.
Alternative Toppings
You can also mix up your toppings. Instead of mini pretzels, try different nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can add candies like M&Ms or chocolate chunks for more color and sweetness. These options make your brownies unique and fun.
Storage Info
How to Store Brownies
To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor. You can place parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and keeps them neat. Avoid leaving brownies uncovered, as they can dry out quickly.
Freezing Brownies
Freezing brownies is easy and helps you save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap tightly. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. To thaw, simply take out a square and leave it at room temperature for a few hours.
Shelf Life of Brownies
Brownies can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. In the fridge, they can last up to a week. But remember, they may become a bit firmer. If you like them soft, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying.
For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe].
FAQs
Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate. Just melt it first. Use about 4 ounces of dark chocolate for 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. This change adds a rich taste to the brownies. Remember to adjust the sugar since dark chocolate can be sweeter.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, use applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. You can also use mashed bananas or yogurt. These options keep your brownies moist and delicious.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
Check the brownies at 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. Do not overbake, as they will continue to cook while cooling.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
How do I reheat brownies for optimal taste and texture?
To reheat brownies, use your oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them warm and soft. You can also use a microwave for a quick warm-up. Just heat for 10-15 seconds.
You learned how to make brownies with a pretzel crown from scratch. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results. Customizing these brownies with different flavors or toppings makes them even more special. Store them right to keep them fresh for longer. Enjoy your baking adventure! Try sharing your creations with friends and family. They will love the sweet and salty combo. Happy baking!
![- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - 4 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1 cup chocolate chips - 2 cups mini pretzels - 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling) - Sea salt for sprinkling To make delicious brownies with a pretzel crown, you need a mix of sweet and salty ingredients. The unsalted butter gives a rich base, while the granulated and brown sugars add sweetness. Eggs are key to binding everything together, and they bring a nice lift to the brownies. Vanilla extract adds a warm flavor that enhances the cocoa powder. The all-purpose flour and cocoa powder bring that classic brownie texture and taste. Don't forget the salt! It balances the sweet and helps the chocolate shine. Chocolate chips add even more chocolatey goodness. The mini pretzels are fun! They give a crunchy crown on top. Drizzling with caramel sauce gives a sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the salty pretzels. A sprinkle of sea salt on top boosts all the flavors. I love how these ingredients come together to create a treat that is both delightful and unique. Each bite offers a mix of flavors and textures that keeps you coming back for more. For the full recipe, check out the steps to make this indulgent dessert. First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking. Greasing your baking pan or lining it with parchment paper is key. This makes it easy to lift out the brownies later. If the pan is not greased, the brownies may stick. In a large bowl, add the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk these together until smooth and creamy. This blend gives the brownies their rich flavor and texture. Make sure to mix well so all sugars dissolve. Now, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. This helps the batter hold air, making it fluffy. After adding all the eggs, stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. This step is simple but very important for taste. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Sifting breaks up clumps and helps mix the dry ingredients well. Gradually add this mix to the wet ingredients. Fold gently to combine. Be cautious not to overmix; this keeps the brownies soft. Once mixed, fold in the chocolate chips. This adds pockets of melted chocolate in each bite. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Make sure to use a spatula for smooth edges. Take your mini pretzels and press them lightly into the top of the brownie batter. This creates a fun pretzel crown. Leave a small space around the edges. This space allows the brownies to rise while baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. After baking, let the brownies cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This cooling time helps set the brownies. While they cool, drizzle caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with sea salt. This adds a sweet and salty kick that pairs perfectly with the pretzels. Once cooled, cut into squares and enjoy your delicious brownies crowned with pretzels! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section. To get the best brownie texture, mixing is key. You want to mix just enough. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. When you combine your dry and wet ingredients, fold them gently. Use a spatula to bring them together. This way, you keep the brownies soft and chewy. Pretzels add a nice crunch and saltiness. You can also try other toppings. Some great options are: - Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans - Mini marshmallows for a gooey touch - Crushed candy bars for extra sweetness - Sprinkles for a fun look Mix and match these toppings to make your brownies unique. Cutting brownies can be tricky if you want clean edges. Here are some tips: - Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. - Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts. - Let the brownies cool completely before cutting. - For a neater presentation, cut into squares or rectangles. These steps help you serve the brownies beautifully, making them even more tempting! {{image_2}} If you want gluten-free brownies, simple swaps work well. You can use almond flour or coconut flour. Both add a unique taste. Just remember that coconut flour absorbs more moisture. So, you may need to adjust the liquid in your recipe. Want to change things up? Try adding peanut butter, mint, or espresso. Peanut butter gives a creamy, nutty taste. Mint adds a fresh twist, perfect for mint lovers. Espresso boosts the chocolate flavor, making it richer. A little goes a long way, so start with one tablespoon. You can also mix up your toppings. Instead of mini pretzels, try different nuts like walnuts or pecans. You can add candies like M&Ms or chocolate chunks for more color and sweetness. These options make your brownies unique and fun. To keep your brownies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to maintain their texture and flavor. You can place parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and keeps them neat. Avoid leaving brownies uncovered, as they can dry out quickly. Freezing brownies is easy and helps you save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, cut them into squares. Wrap each square in plastic wrap tightly. Place the wrapped brownies in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. To thaw, simply take out a square and leave it at room temperature for a few hours. Brownies can stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 to 4 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. In the fridge, they can last up to a week. But remember, they may become a bit firmer. If you like them soft, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before enjoying. For the full recipe, check the [Full Recipe]. Yes, you can use dark chocolate. Just melt it first. Use about 4 ounces of dark chocolate for 1/2 cup of cocoa powder. This change adds a rich taste to the brownies. Remember to adjust the sugar since dark chocolate can be sweeter. If you need an egg substitute, use applesauce. Replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. You can also use mashed bananas or yogurt. These options keep your brownies moist and delicious. Check the brownies at 25 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with moist crumbs, they are done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes. Do not overbake, as they will continue to cook while cooling. Yes, you can make these brownies ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat brownies, use your oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place brownies on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes. This method keeps them warm and soft. You can also use a microwave for a quick warm-up. Just heat for 10-15 seconds. You learned how to make brownies with a pretzel crown from scratch. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for perfect results. Customizing these brownies with different flavors or toppings makes them even more special. Store them right to keep them fresh for longer. Enjoy your baking adventure! Try sharing your creations with friends and family. They will love the sweet and salty combo. Happy baking!](https://southerndishes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/7945766a-82de-4f7e-8167-d0013dc1b406-250x250.webp)
