Introduction to Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups
Hey there, fellow dessert lovers! If you’re on the hunt for a treat that’s both indulgent and fun, look no further than these Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups. Imagine biting into a rich brownie, only to be greeted by the delightful crunch of pretzels and a creamy cheesecake layer. It’s like a party in your mouth! Whether you’re hosting friends or just need a quick pick-me-up after a long day, these cups are the perfect solution. Trust me, they’ll impress your loved ones and satisfy your sweet tooth in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups
These Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups are a dream come true for busy bakers like me! They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of salty and sweet is simply irresistible, and the layers of flavor create a delightful experience with every bite. Plus, they’re easy to customize, so you can make them your own. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups
Let’s gather our ingredients for these delightful Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups! Each component plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Crushed pretzels: These provide the salty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet layers.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter helps bind the pretzel crust together, adding richness.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness enhances the crust and balances the flavors.
- Brownie mix: This is the star of the show! You can use a box mix for convenience or whip up a homemade batch for a richer flavor.
- Cream cheese: Softened cream cheese adds a creamy, tangy layer that elevates the dessert.
- Egg: This helps bind the cheesecake layer, giving it a smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the cheesecake layer.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzled on top, it brings a luscious sweetness that complements the salty pretzels.
- Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle on top enhances the flavors and adds a gourmet touch.
- Whipped cream: This fluffy topping is optional but adds a delightful finish.
- Extra pretzel crumbs or mini pretzels: These make for a fun garnish, adding extra crunch and visual appeal.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking, so your brownie cups come out perfectly cooked. Trust me, a well-preheated oven is like a warm hug for your treats!
Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until everything is well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottoms of a greased muffin tin. This crust is the foundation of your Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups, so make sure it’s nice and compact!
Step 3: Make the Brownie Batter
Next, prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions. Don’t forget to add the eggs, oil, and water as directed. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use a homemade brownie recipe for an extra fudgy flavor!
Step 4: Assemble the Cups
Now, it’s time to assemble! Spoon a small amount of brownie batter over each pretzel crust, filling them about halfway. This allows room for the cheesecake layer, which is the cherry on top of this delightful dessert.
Step 5: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer
In another bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth. This creamy mixture is what makes these cups so special! Optionally, you can add a cheesecake swirl on top of each brownie cup for a beautiful presentation.
Step 6: Bake
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until set. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. You want that perfect balance of gooey brownie and creamy cheesecake!
Step 7: Cool and Remove
Once baked, allow the cups to cool completely in the tin. This step is crucial! If you try to remove them too soon, they might fall apart. Patience is key, my friends!
Step 8: Add Toppings
Finally, it’s time for the fun part—toppings! Spoon caramel sauce over each cup, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and add a swirl of whipped cream or frosting. For an extra touch, garnish with pretzel crumbs or mini pretzels. Your Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups are now ready to shine!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy mixing; it’ll save you a lot of elbow grease!
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it helps the cups hold their shape when you remove them.
- Feel free to adjust the caramel and sea salt to suit your taste—sweet and salty is a personal journey!
- Use a toothpick to create swirls in the cheesecake layer for a beautiful finish.
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin: A standard muffin tin works perfectly, but you can use silicone molds for easy removal.
- Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do the trick for mixing ingredients.
- Whisk or electric mixer: Either will help you achieve that smooth cheesecake layer.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls and transferring batter.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for an extra crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pretzels and a gluten-free brownie mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
- Vegan Twist: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use a vegan brownie mix along with dairy-free cream cheese.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix chocolate chips into the brownie batter for an extra chocolatey experience.
- Fruit Fusion: Top with fresh berries or banana slices for a fruity contrast to the rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
- Serve alongside a rich cup of coffee or a creamy milkshake to elevate the dessert experience.
- For presentation, arrange them on a colorful platter and drizzle extra caramel sauce for a stunning display.
FAQs about Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups
Can I make Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these cups a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, add the toppings for that fresh touch!
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. Both will give you a creamy texture without the tang of cream cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups in the fridge for up to three days. Just remember to keep the toppings separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze these dessert cups?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep well for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What’s the best way to serve these cups?
For a show-stopping presentation, serve them on a beautiful platter with extra caramel sauce drizzled around. A scoop of ice cream on the side never hurts either!
Final Thoughts
Creating these Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a delightful experience for yourself and your loved ones. The combination of salty pretzels, rich brownies, and creamy cheesecake layers brings joy to every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these cups are sure to bring smiles all around. Plus, the fun of customizing them makes each batch uniquely yours. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen in your kitchen. Happy baking!
Print
Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups are a must-try!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Salted Pretzel Brownie Sundae Cups are a delicious dessert combining the crunch of pretzels with rich brownie and creamy cheesecake layers, topped with caramel and whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups crushed pretzels
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup sugar
- 1 box brownie mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as directed)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt
- Whipped cream (or frosting swirls)
- Extra pretzel crumbs or mini pretzels for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar.
- Press firmly into the bottoms of a greased muffin tin.
- Mix brownie batter according to package or recipe.
- Spoon a small amount over each pretzel crust (about halfway full).
- Beat cream cheese, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth (optional cheesecake swirl).
- Add a spoonful on top of each brownie cup, swirling lightly with a toothpick.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until set.
- Cool completely before removing from the muffin tin.
- Spoon caramel sauce over each cup.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Add a swirl of whipped cream or frosting on top.
- Garnish with extra pretzel crumbs or mini pretzels.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade fudgy brownies instead of a box mix.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy mixing.
- Adjust the amount of caramel sauce and sea salt to taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
