Pin this A delightful snack mix featuring crunchy pretzels and mixed nuts coated in rich, buttery salted caramel. Perfect for parties, gifting, or an indulgent treat.
This recipe has quickly become my favorite go-to snack for holiday gatherings it always impresses guests and is so easy to prepare.
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
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine mini pretzels and mixed nuts Set aside
- Melt Butter and Sugar:
- 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
- Coat Mixture:
- Immediately pour the hot caramel over the pretzel and nut mixture Using a spatula toss gently to coat evenly
- Prepare for Baking:
- 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
Pin this My family always gathers around eagerly when I bring out this caramel snack it has become a cherished tradition.
Notes
For extra flavor add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon to the caramel Substitute pecans or walnuts for a different nut mix Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week 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
Pin this This salted caramel pretzels and nuts mix is a perfect balance of sweet salty and crunchy making it irresistible for any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → What types of nuts work best in this snack?
Cashews, almonds, pecans, and peanuts all provide great texture and flavor, but you can mix and match according to preference.
- → Can I add spices to the caramel coating?
Yes, adding ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor profile of the caramel.
- → How do I ensure the caramel coats the ingredients evenly?
Pour the hot caramel over the pretzels and nuts and gently toss with a spatula to coat every piece thoroughly before baking.
- → What’s the best way to store these clusters?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain crispness.
- → Can this snack be made gluten-free?
Yes, using gluten-free pretzels will make the snack suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.