Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Salted Caramel Pretzel Brownies

Ingredients:

• For the Brownies:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup crushed pretzels

• For the Salted Caramel:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup water
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

2. Make the Brownies: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the crushed pretzels.

4. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan.

5. Make the Salted Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color (about 8-10 minutes). Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously), whisking constantly. Add the butter and sea salt, whisking until smooth.

6. Pour the salted caramel over the brownie batter. Top with the remaining brownie batter. Swirl gently with a knife to create marbled effect.

7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs attached.

8. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.