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Caramel Pretzels Recipe

4.9 from 72 reviews

Crunchy mini pretzels coated in a rich homemade caramel glaze, then baked to perfection for a sweet and salty snack that’s perfect for parties or an everyday treat.

Ingredients

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Caramel Pretzels

  • 4 cups Mini Pretzels
  • 1 cup Butter
  • 1 cup Sugar
  • 2 tbsp Water
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with non-stick spray. Then place a cooling rack over the lined pan and spray the rack with non-stick spray as well.
  2. Make Caramel Mixture: In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, and water. Stir constantly as the mixture heats and comes to a boil. Use a candy thermometer and continue stirring until the temperature reaches 305 degrees Fahrenheit.
  3. Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat immediately once the temperature hits 305 degrees. Stir in the vanilla extract thoroughly to mix well with the caramel.
  4. Coat Pretzels: Add the mini pretzels to the caramel mixture and stir until each pretzel is evenly coated with the caramel glaze.
  5. Arrange Pretzels: Working in batches, transfer the coated pretzels onto the prepared cooling rack over the baking sheet. Spread them out so they are not overlapping, allowing the caramel to set properly.
  6. Bake to Dry: Place the baking sheet with pretzels into the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 30 minutes to dry out the pretzels and prevent stickiness, enhancing their crunchiness.
  7. Cool Completely: Remove the pretzels from the oven and let them cool completely on the rack before serving or storing.

Notes

  • Be sure to monitor the caramel temperature closely to avoid burning.
  • Non-stick spray on the rack and foil will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • You can add a sprinkle of sea salt before baking for an extra salty-sweet flavor contrast.
  • Store cooled caramel pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature to keep crisp.
  • Use a candy thermometer to achieve precise caramel temperature for best results.

Keywords: caramel pretzels, sweet and salty snack, homemade caramel, easy caramel recipe, party snack, crunchy pretzels