The Best Sweet and Salty Gluten-Free Pretzel Brownies

by Judy Goudy

Brownies have always been my comfort food, but adding a sweet and salty twist with pretzels?

That’s a whole new level of irresistible. I remember baking these for the first time on a rainy Sunday.

The kitchen smelled like chocolate heaven, and the crunch of pretzels in every bite made it unforgettable.

These brownies are perfect for sharing—or keeping to yourself on a cozy night in.

Tips and Variations

  • Substitutions: Swap the caramel for melted peanut butter or Nutella if you prefer.
  • Add-ins: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little more sea salt on top right before serving.

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Sweet and Salty Gluten-Free Pretzel Brownies


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  • Author: Judy Goudy
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 16 brownies 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Rich, fudgy brownies with a crunchy, salty pretzel topping and a drizzle of caramel. A gluten-free treat that hits all the right flavor notes.


Ingredients

Scale

For the brownies:

    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
    • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
    • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/3 cup brown sugar
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
    • 3/4 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
    • 1/2 tsp salt
    • 1/4 tsp baking powder

For the topping:

    • 1 cup gluten-free pretzels, roughly crushed
    • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions

  • Prep Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. Grease lightly with cooking spray.
  • Melt Butter and Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until smooth. Let it cool slightly.
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture.
  • Combine the Dry Ingredients: Sift together the gluten-free flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until just combined.
  • Pour and Top: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crushed pretzels over the top, pressing them lightly into the batter. Drizzle with caramel sauce and finish with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
  • Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
  • Cool and Slice: Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Slice into squares and serve.

Notes

Perfect for parties or a cozy night at home. Substitute as needed for dietary preferences.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

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