Chocolate Chip Pretzel Blondies Recipe

Unsalted butter: Provides the rich, buttery base for the blondies.

Brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and moisture.

Granulated sugar: Balances the sweetness and helps with the texture.

Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet note.

All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the blondies.

Baking powder: Helps the blondies rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Chocolate chips: Adds pockets of melty, sweet chocolate throughout the blondies.

Crushed pretzels: Provides a crunchy, salty contrast to the sweetness.

When melting the butter, make sure to do it slowly over low heat to prevent it from browning. This ensures a smooth mixture when combined with the sugars. Additionally, when folding in the chocolate chips and crushed pretzels, be gentle to maintain the texture and avoid overmixing, which can result in a denser blondie.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil provides a similar fat content and moisture, adding a slight coconut flavor that complements the sweetness.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and moisture, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a great vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the blondies denser.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon of baking soda and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral content.

• chocolate chips - Substitute with carob chips: Carob chips are a caffeine-free alternative that provides a similar texture and sweetness.

• crushed pretzels - Substitute with crushed graham crackers: Crushed graham crackers offer a similar crunch and a sweet, slightly spiced flavor.

• Allow the blondies to cool completely before storing. This ensures they maintain their texture and don't become soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the blondies in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• If you prefer to keep them fresh for a longer period, store the blondies in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to a week. Make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

• To freeze the blondies, first cut them into squares. This makes it easier to thaw only the amount you need.

• Wrap each blondie square individually in plastic wrap. This prevents freezer burn and helps maintain their flavor and texture.

• Place the individually wrapped blondies in a large freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• The blondies can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply remove the desired number of squares from the freezer.

• To thaw, leave the blondies at room temperature for about an hour or overnight in the refrigerator. For a quicker option, you can microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat as this can make them too soft.

• For an extra treat, warm the blondies slightly in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will give them a freshly-baked taste and a slightly crispy edge.

• Enjoy your Chocolate Chip Pretzel Blondies with a glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply on their own for a delightful dessert experience.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the blondies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the blondies' chewy texture and ensures the chocolate chips get melty again.

• Microwave Method: Place a blondie on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Microwave on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check the blondie and continue heating in 10-second intervals if needed. Be cautious not to overheat, as the chocolate chips can become too hot and the blondie may dry out.

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the blondies on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 5-10 minutes. This method is great for a quick reheat while keeping the blondies' edges slightly crispy.

• Stovetop Method: If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, you can reheat the blondies on a stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the blondies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side, checking frequently to avoid burning. This method gives a delightful contrast between the crispy edges and the gooey center.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the blondies in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 3-5 minutes. This method is quick and helps maintain a nice texture, especially if you enjoy a bit of crispiness on the outside.

• Oven: Used to bake the blondies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• 9x13 inch baking pan: The pan where the blondie batter will be spread and baked.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl to combine and mix all the ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the ingredients like butter, sugars, flour, and pretzels.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for mixing the batter until smooth.

• Spatula: Helps in spreading the batter evenly in the baking pan.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the blondies are baked through by inserting it into the center.

• Cooling rack: Allows the blondies to cool evenly after baking.

• Knife: Used to cut the cooled blondies into squares.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before you start to streamline the process.

Use a stand mixer: A stand mixer can quickly combine your butter, sugars, and eggs.

Crush pretzels in a bag: Place pretzels in a ziplock bag and crush them with a rolling pin to save cleanup time.

Line the pan with parchment: Use parchment paper to line the baking pan for easy removal and less cleanup.

Cool on a wire rack: Transfer the blondies to a wire rack to cool faster, so you can cut them sooner.