Malted Pretzel Crunch
If you’re looking for that perfect combination of sweet and salty, then look no further than Malted Pretzel Crunch. This delightful snack mixes crunchy miniature pretzels with a sweet coating that will have you reaching for more. The unique flavor of malt powder adds an extra depth that perfectly complements the pretzels, making this treat irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want a snack to enjoy while binge-watching your favorite show, Malted Pretzel Crunch is the answer.
Why It’s My Go-To
Malted Pretzel Crunch is not just any snack; it’s a celebration of textures and flavors. The crunchiness of the pretzels against the sweet, buttery coating creates a wonderful mouthfeel that is just so satisfying. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to put together! With minimal effort, you can create a snack that is perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. It’s my go-to for potlucks and family gatherings because everyone loves it, and it disappears faster than I can make it!
Ingredient List
To make your own Malted Pretzel Crunch, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups (320g) miniature pretzels, about of a 16-ounce bag
- 1/2 cup (110g) light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (64g) dry milk powder
- 2 tablespoons malt powder
- 1/4 cup (14 tablespoons) salted butter, melted
Equipment Breakdown
Before you dive into making this delicious treat, gather the following equipment:
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining your ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: To spread out the pretzel mixture.
- Parchment Paper: To line your baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Rubber Spatula: For mixing and spreading the pretzel crunch.
- Oven: Essential for baking your pretzel crunch to perfection.
Malted Pretzel Crunch — Do This Next
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making your Malted Pretzel Crunch!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your Malted Pretzel Crunch bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the pretzel crunch from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, dry milk powder, and malt powder. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Add Melted Butter
Pour the melted salted butter into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to mix everything together until the mixture is well blended and resembles a sandy texture.
Step 5: Fold in the Pretzels
Add the miniature pretzels to the bowl, gently folding them into the butter and sugar mixture. Make sure each pretzel is coated evenly.
Step 6: Spread on Baking Sheet
Transfer the pretzel mixture to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in an even layer. This will help the pretzels bake uniformly.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to be golden but not burnt.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, break the Malted Pretzel Crunch into pieces and enjoy!
Better Choices & Swaps
If you want to customize your Malted Pretzel Crunch or make it a bit healthier, consider these options:
- Gluten-Free Pretzels: Swap out the miniature pretzels for gluten-free versions if needed.
- Coconut Sugar: Use coconut sugar instead of light brown sugar for a lower glycemic index option.
- Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter if you prefer to control the saltiness.
- Maple Syrup: You can replace some of the sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Chef’s Rationale
The combination of flavors in Malted Pretzel Crunch is truly magical. The malt powder adds a unique taste that enhances the overall profile of the snack. Using miniature pretzels gives you that perfect bite-sized crunch, and the balance of sugars creates a delightful sweetness that isn’t overpowering. The dry milk powder not only adds creaminess but also helps the coating stick to the pretzels, ensuring every bite is flavorful. This recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Malted Pretzel Crunch is a fantastic make-ahead snack. You can prepare it a day or two in advance, and it will store well. Once cooled, keep the snack in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep it fresh even longer, you can freeze the pretzel crunch in a freezer-safe bag, where it will last for up to three months. Just be sure to let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What do I do if my Malted Pretzel Crunch is too sweet?
If you find that your Malted Pretzel Crunch is sweeter than you prefer, consider reducing the amount of granulated and brown sugar in the recipe next time. You can also add a pinch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.
Can I use regular pretzels instead of miniature ones?
Absolutely! Regular pretzels will work just fine, but you may want to break them into smaller pieces to ensure even coating and baking.
How do I know when the pretzel crunch is done baking?
The Malted Pretzel Crunch is done when it turns a golden brown color. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning, as ovens can vary.
I have leftover pretzel crunch. Can I reheat it?
While you can technically reheat Malted Pretzel Crunch, it’s best enjoyed at room temperature. If you want to refresh it, a quick 5-10 minute bake at a low temperature can help restore some of the crunchiness.
Final Thoughts
Malted Pretzel Crunch is a snack that brings joy with every bite. Its delightful combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with friends. This recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions and adjustments to suit your taste. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up in no time. So go ahead and treat yourself to this delicious Malted Pretzel Crunch — you deserve it!
Malted Pretzel Crunch
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, dry milk powder, and malt powder. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour the melted salted butter into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix until well blended and resembles a sandy texture.
- Add the miniature pretzels to the bowl, gently folding them into the butter and sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Transfer the pretzel mixture to the prepared baking sheet, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden.
- Once baked, remove the sheet from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Break into pieces and enjoy!
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Can be frozen for up to three months; thaw before serving.
- Swap miniature pretzels for gluten-free options if needed.
