Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan - Line your 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter - Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cocoa powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies - Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Step 6: Prepare the Peanut Butter Fudge Layer - Mix together the peanut butter and powdered sugar until smooth.
Step 7: Crush the Pretzels - Combine the crushed pretzel pieces with melted butter.
Step 8: Assemble the Brownies - After baking, cool the brownies for 10 minutes. Spread the peanut butter fudge layer, then the pretzel mixture on top.
Step 9: Final Bake - Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Step 10: Cool and Serve - Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.