Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies

Indulging in the rich, fudgy delight of brownies is one of life’s simplest pleasures, but when you add a sweet and salty twist like chocolate-covered pretzels, it turns into a decadent experience you won’t be able to resist. These Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies are a perfect blend of textures and flavors, combining the smoothness of chocolate brownie batter with the satisfying crunch of pretzels. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or treating yourself, these brownies are sure to impress!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it incorporates high-quality chocolate, which elevates the flavor profile of the brownies. The addition of chocolate-covered pretzels not only adds a delightful crunch but also introduces a balance of sweetness and saltiness that complements the rich chocolate. The use of brewed coffee and espresso granules enhances the chocolate flavor, making these brownies truly irresistible. Plus, they are simple to make, requiring no complicated techniques—just melt, mix, and bake!

The Ingredient Lineup

To create these scrumptious Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies, you will need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate, chopped (I used Trader Joe’s 72% Pound Plus Bar)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon brewed coffee, leftover or cold coffee is okay, optional but recommended
• 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules, optional but recommended
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• About 30 chocolate-covered pretzels, or as needed to cover surface (I used one 5-ounce bag of Flipz Milk Chocolate Pretzels and had a few leftover)

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start baking, ensure you have these essential tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly.
• Spatula – For folding in the flour and transferring the batter.
• 9×9-inch Baking Pan – The perfect size for these brownies.
• Parchment Paper – For easy removal of brownies.
• Oven Thermometer – To ensure your oven is at the right temperature.

From Start to Finish: Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line your 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This step makes cleanup a breeze!

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the chopped dark chocolate and unsalted butter. Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate mixture, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, brewed coffee, and espresso granules if using. The mixture should be glossy and smooth.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour and salt into the chocolate mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small flour streaks are okay.

Step 6: Incorporate the Pretzels

Gently fold in about 20 of the chocolate-covered pretzels, breaking them into pieces as you go. This will add delightful bites of chocolate-covered pretzel goodness throughout your brownies.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Press the remaining chocolate-covered pretzels on top of the batter for an eye-catching finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (but not wet batter).

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the brownies from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Using the parchment overhang, lift the brownies out and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares.

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, here are some easy swaps you can make:

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut oil instead of butter.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
• Egg-Free: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals 1 egg).
• Low Sugar: Opt for a sugar substitute suitable for baking.

What I Learned Testing

After experimenting with this recipe, I discovered some valuable tips:

• The quality of chocolate can significantly impact the flavor. Choose a brand you love.
• Letting the brownies cool completely before slicing prevents them from falling apart.
• Adding an optional pinch of sea salt on top before baking enhances the flavor even more.
• These brownies freeze beautifully, making them perfect for making ahead of time.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

To keep your Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies fresh:

• Once cooled, store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
• Rewarm individual brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk chocolate will give your brownies a sweeter flavor, while dark chocolate adds richness. It’s all about your personal preference.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. If it comes out clean, your brownies may be overbaked.

Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch alongside the pretzels. Just fold them in with the pretzels.

What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies are delicious on their own, but you can pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat!

Cook This Next

If you loved these Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies, you might also enjoy:

• Salted Caramel Brownies
• Healthy Brownies
• Vegan Brownies
• Brownie Batter Dip

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it for later and share it with your friends! These Chocolate-Covered Pretzel Brownies are sure to be a hit at any gathering, and everyone will want to know your secret. Happy baking!