Save It A delightful snack mix featuring crunchy pretzels and mixed nuts coated in rich buttery salted caramel Perfect for parties gifting or an indulgent treat
I remember making this recipe for a holiday gathering and how everyone kept coming back for more Its become a staple snack in our home
Ingredients
- Snack Base: 3 cups mini pretzels 2 cups mixed unsalted nuts (e.g. cashews almonds pecans peanuts)
- Caramel Coating: 1 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup unsalted butter 1/4 cup heavy cream 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling) 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
- Mix snack base:
- In a large bowl combine mini pretzels and mixed nuts Set aside
- Make caramel:
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat melt the butter Add sugar and stir constantly until it dissolves and turns a golden amber color (about 5 7 minutes)
- Add cream and flavorings:
- Carefully whisk in heavy cream (mixture will bubble) then add sea salt and vanilla extract Stir until smooth and glossy
- Combine caramel and snacks:
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the pretzel and nut mixture Using a spatula toss gently to coat evenly
- Spread and salt:
- Spread the mixture in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet Sprinkle an extra pinch of sea salt over the top
- Bake:
- Bake for 10 12 minutes stirring halfway through until the caramel is set and slightly darkened
- Cool and serve:
- Remove from oven and let cool completely Break into clusters before serving
Save It Our family loves sharing this snack during movie nights It always brings smiles and warmth to our gatherings
Notes
For extra flavor add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the caramel Substitute pecans or walnuts for a different nut mix Pairs well with coffee dark chocolate or a glass of bourbon
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl Medium saucepan Whisk Spatula Baking sheet Parchment paper
Allergen Information
Contains milk (butter cream) nuts and may contain wheat gluten (pretzels) Check all ingredient labels for potential allergens and cross-contamination
Save It This salted caramel pretzel snack mix is perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of nuts work best in this mix?
Cashews, almonds, pecans, and peanuts all complement the caramel and pretzels well, offering a variety of textures and flavors.
- → Can I adjust the saltiness of the caramel?
Yes, you can add or reduce the sea salt in the caramel or sprinkle more on top before baking to achieve your preferred balance.
- → How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
Baking the coated mixture for a short time and cooling completely allows the caramel to set with a pleasant chew rather than becoming rock hard.
- → Is it possible to add spices to the caramel?
Absolutely, adding cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the caramel can provide a warm, aromatic twist to the flavor profile.
- → How should this snack be stored for freshness?
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature, which helps maintain the crunch for up to one week.