Name: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies.
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 sticks salted butter (melted); 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 20 mini pretzel twists; 1-2 ounces milk chocolate (melted (optional)); Flaky sea salt (optional)

If you’re searching for a treat that combines sweet, salty, and a bit of crunch, look no further than these luscious Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies. These blondies are a delightful twist on traditional recipes, featuring a rich peanut butter base, a sprinkle of salty pretzels, and decadent chocolate chips. Perfect for any gathering or a simple afternoon treat, they will quickly become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

These blondies are easy to whip up and require minimal effort, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of creamy peanut butter and the delightful crunch of pretzels creates a texture and flavor that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Let’s dive into what makes these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies so irresistible.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about the combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and pretzels that resonates with everyone. These blondies are:

Sweet and Salty: The balance of sweet chocolate and salty pretzels makes for a perfect flavor combination.
Decadent Yet Light: Unlike traditional brownies, blondies are slightly lighter, making them a perfect dessert after a hearty meal.
Texturally Appealing: The chewy blondie base combined with the crunch of pretzels creates an enjoyable eating experience.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal cleanup, anyone can achieve dessert success!

What Goes In

To create these delightful Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 1/2 sticks (3/4 cup) salted butter: Provides moisture and richness.
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a nutty flavor and creamy texture.
1 cup light brown sugar: For deep sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar’s richness.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base structure for the blondies.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the blondies rise slightly.
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For that oh-so-decadent chocolatey flavor.
20 mini pretzel twists: Adds crunch and saltiness.
1-2 ounces milk chocolate, melted (optional): For drizzling on top for added sweetness.
Flaky sea salt (optional): To sprinkle on top for an extra flavor punch.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools to make your life easier:

9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for blondies, ensuring even baking.
Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
Whisk and spatula: Necessary for mixing and folding ingredients.
Parchment paper: Helps with easy removal of blondies from the pan.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Method: Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies.

Now, let’s get into the delightful process of making these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Peanut Butter

In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the 1 1/2 sticks of salted butter and 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter together. Stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and combined. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Eggs

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and peanut butter mixture with 1 cup of light brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips and Pretzels

Fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 20 mini pretzel twists. The pretzels can be left whole for a nice crunch or broken into smaller pieces if you prefer.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool and Drizzle (Optional)

Allow the blondies to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. If desired, melt 1-2 ounces of milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled blondies. For an extra touch, sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Substitutions by Category

If you’re missing an ingredient or looking to customize your blondies, here are some great substitutions:

Butter: Can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut-free alternatives.
Flour: Whole wheat flour can be substituted for all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Sugars: Coconut sugar can replace the granulated and brown sugars for a less refined option.
Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer flavor.

Testing Timeline

To ensure your Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies turn out perfectly, consider this timeline:

Preparation Time: 15 minutes to gather and mix ingredients.
Baking Time: 20-25 minutes in the oven.
Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Shelf Life & Storage

These delicious blondies can be stored for later enjoyment! Here’s how to keep them fresh:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: They can last up to a week in the fridge.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual blondies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

FAQ

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to your blondies, enhancing the overall experience!

What if I don’t have mini pretzels?

You can use regular pretzels, breaking them into smaller pieces, or even pretzel sticks for a similar crunch.

How do I know when the blondies are done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary based on your oven.

Can I make these blondies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free treat!

Save & Share

If you love these Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies as much as we do, share the joy! Post them on social media, tag your friends, or save the recipe for your next baking adventure. The more, the merrier!

These Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Blondies are sure to impress your family and friends with their rich flavors and delightful textures. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet craving, these blondies are a fantastic choice. Enjoy every bite of this indulgent treat!