M&M Pretzel Blondies

If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that perfectly balances richness, sweetness, and a hint of saltiness, look no further than these M&M Pretzel Blondies. With their chewy texture and delightful combination of flavors, these blondies are sure to become a favorite in your dessert lineup. The crunchy pretzels, creamy peanut butter chips, and colorful M&M’s create a symphony of taste and texture that will leave you and your guests reaching for seconds.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These M&M Pretzel Blondies are not just any ordinary dessert. They bring together the best of both worlds — the sweetness of blondies and the salty crunch of pretzels. Imagine biting into a soft, buttery blondie, only to discover pockets of melting peanut butter chips and the satisfying crunch of pretzels. Plus, the vibrant M&M’s add a fun pop of color and sweetness that makes these blondies visually appealing and delicious. Whether you’re baking for a party, a potluck, or simply for yourself, these blondies will be a showstopper.

Ingredient Rundown

To create these delectable M&M Pretzel Blondies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened – This forms the base of the blondies, adding richness and moisture.
• 1 cup brown sugar – Brown sugar contributes a deep, caramel-like flavor that enhances the blondies’ sweetness.
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar – This adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• 1 large egg – The egg binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Vanilla adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – This helps the blondies rise and achieve a fluffy texture.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of the blondies, providing structure and chewiness.
• 1 cup broken pretzels – Adds a delightful crunch and salty flavor.
• 1 cup peanut butter chips – These contribute a creamy, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
• 1 cup M&M’s (plus a few extra to press on top) – For bursts of color and sweetness throughout the blondies.
• 24 small pretzel twists – These will be placed on top for a beautiful and tasty garnish.

Tools of the Trade

To make your baking experience easier, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining the ingredients.
• Whisk – To beat the egg and mix the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Spatula – For folding in the dry ingredients and mixing in the add-ins.
• 9×13-inch baking pan – The perfect size for baking blondies.
• Parchment paper – To line the baking pan for easy removal.
• Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cooling rack – To cool the blondies after baking.

From Start to Finish: M&M Pretzel Blondies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your blondies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it easy to lift the blondies out of the pan once they’re baked.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated white sugar. Use a whisk or electric mixer to cream the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the large egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the Goodies

Gently fold in the broken pretzels, peanut butter chips, and M&M’s, reserving a few M&M’s for pressing on top. The dough will be thick and full of delicious mix-ins.

Step 7: Spread and Top

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. Press the reserved M&M’s and small pretzel twists on top for an attractive finish.

Step 8: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake; you want the blondies to remain soft and chewy.

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the blondies from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a cooling rack before slicing into squares.

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some quick replacements:

• Butter: You can use vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Peanut Butter Chips: Use white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different twist.
• All-Purpose Flour: Swap for a gluten-free flour blend if needed.

Things That Go Wrong

Baking is an art, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overmixing: This can lead to tough blondies. Mix until just combined.
• Underbaking: Ensure the blondies are set but still soft in the center for the best texture.
• Not using enough butter: The butter is crucial for moisture; don’t skimp on it!
• Skipping the parchment paper: This will make it difficult to remove the blondies from the pan.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

Once you’ve made your M&M Pretzel Blondies, you’ll want to keep them fresh. Here’s how to store them:

• Store blondies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To enjoy frozen blondies, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Reader Q&A

Can I use different types of chips in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute peanut butter chips with chocolate chips, white chocolate, or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the blondies are done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I make these blondies nut-free?

Yes! Simply omit the peanut butter chips and ensure your pretzels are nut-free. You can replace the chips with additional chocolate chips or caramel bits.

What’s the best way to cut blondies?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices. This will help maintain the edges of each piece.

Explore More

If you loved these M&M Pretzel Blondies, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Pinch of Yum
• Minimalist Baker
• Brownie Brittle

Before You Go

Now that you have the perfect recipe for M&M Pretzel Blondies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking. Whether you share them with friends or keep them all to yourself, these blondies are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their mix of textures and flavors, they’re bound to be a hit. Happy baking!