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Homemade Caramel Pretzels (Mini Butter Toffee Pretzels) recipe photo
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Caramel Pretzels (Mini Butter Toffee Pretzels)

These Caramel Pretzels are irresistibly crunchy, buttery, and sweet with a perfect salty touch—easy to make and impossible to stop eating!
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Course: Snack
Keyword: Butter Toffee, Caramel, Easy, Pretzels, Quick, Snack
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 cups miniature pretzels mini pretzels work best
  • 1 cup unsalted butter use real unsalted butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water helps dissolve sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt just a pinch

Instructions

  • Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside 4 cups of miniature pretzels.
  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
  • Add 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons water to the melted butter. Stir gently to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil without stirring.
  • Allow the caramel to boil, swirling the pan occasionally until it reaches a deep amber color (about 340°F if using a candy thermometer).
  • Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt.
  • Pour the hot caramel over the pretzels in a large mixing bowl and gently fold to coat all pretzels evenly.
  • Spread the coated pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and allow them to cool and set at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
  • Once set, break the pretzels into bite-sized clusters. Store in an airtight container or serve immediately.

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
  • Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Candy thermometer (optional)

Notes

  • Store caramel pretzels in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks to maintain crunch.
  • Freeze clusters in a sealed container for up to three months for longer storage.
  • Customize by adding cinnamon, nuts, or drizzling melted chocolate for extra flavor.
  • Use a wet pastry brush to prevent sugar crystals forming on pan edges during caramel-making.
  • Work quickly when coating pretzels to avoid clumping as caramel hardens fast.