Name: Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies: A Sweet and Salty Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 48 min
Ingredients: 1 cup butter (at room temperature); 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 large egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure for best results); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping); 1 cup butterscotch chips (or caramel bits); 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (dark or milk chocolate also works); 1 cup pretzels (chopped, adjust based on preference)

The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen is a sweet symphony that captivates the senses. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies, where the delightful combo of gooey butterscotch chips and crunchy pretzels creates a mouthwatering treat. These cookies boast a chewy texture that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering or cozy night in, and the best part? They’re super easy to whip up! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is incredibly customizable—swap in your favorite mix-ins for a personal touch. Ready to satisfy those sweet and salty cravings? Let’s dive in and bake a batch that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Irresistible Flavor: The blend of sweet butterscotch and salty pretzels creates a unique taste experience that’s hard to resist.

Customizable Delights: You can easily swap in your favorite mix-ins, whether it’s white chocolate chips or nuts, making these cookies truly your own.

Quick Preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are perfect for a last-minute dessert or snack!

Chewy Perfection: Expect a delightful combination of chewy centers and crispy edges, ensuring every bite is satisfying and delicious.

Crowd-Pleaser: These Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies are sure to impress guests and family alike, offering a gourmet touch to any occasion. For more cookie inspiration, try my delicious Cookies Cream Peanut or Ferrero Rocher Cookies!

Butterscotch Pretzel Cookie Ingredients

• The key ingredients for these delicious Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies are simple and versatile, ensuring you can whip up a batch with ease!

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth; feel free to use light or dark based on what you prefer.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes extra sweetness and helps give structure to your cookies.
Egg & Egg Yolk – Binds the ingredients together and enriches the dough, adding to that chewy texture.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors and sweetness; use pure vanilla for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – This is the main structure of your cookies, ensuring a perfect balance of chewy and soft.
Baking Soda – A leavening agent that allows your cookies to rise just slightly.
Sea Salt – Elevates and enhances flavors; consider adding extra for a topping!

For Mix-Ins

Butterscotch Chips – The star ingredient for sweetness; swap with caramel bits if you prefer.
Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds an additional layer of taste; dark or milk chocolate also works well.
Pretzels (chopped) – Introduces a delightful crunch and salty contrast; adjust the amount based on personal preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies

Step 1: Melt the Butter
Start by melting 1 cup of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir it gently until it takes on a light amber color, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning. Once melted, remove from heat and allow it to cool for 15-20 minutes to reach room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven
While the butter is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready for your Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies, promoting even baking and achieving that perfect chewy texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled melted butter with 1 cup of brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Stir in 1 large egg and 1 egg yolk, along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well blended and creamy—around 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt to the wet mixture. Mix gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; the dough should be slightly thick, but do not overmix—it’s important for achieving the right texture in your cookies.

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins
Now it’s time to fold in the delicious components! Gently add 1 cup of butterscotch chips, ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips, and 1 cup of chopped pretzels into your dough. Using a spatula, ensure that the mix-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough for that sweet and salty flavor in each Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookie.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or rounded tablespoon, drop the dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing each scoop about 2 inches apart. This allows the cookies to expand while baking without sticking together. You should get about 12-15 cookies on a standard baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 9-13 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set. Keep an eye on them—removing them too late might lead to a drier cookie. When done, let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Cool and Salt
For an extra touch of flavor, while the cookies are still warm, sprinkle some flaked sea salt on top of each one. This enhances the sweet and salty contrast, making your Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies even more irresistible. Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing or serving.

Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize your cookie experience with these delightful suggestions!

Nutty Surprise: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture twist. The nuts add rich flavor that complements the buttery goodness wonderfully.
Dried Fruits: Mix in ½ cup of chopped dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of fruity flavor. The tangy sweetness pairs deliciously with the butterscotch and pretzels.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a subtle heat or warmth in your cookies. This unexpected twist adds depth that keeps things exciting.
Chocolate Variety: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate to suit your sweet cravings. Each variety brings its own delightful flavor that pairs beautifully with butterscotch.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour mix instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free cookie. It retains the tasty texture without sacrificing flavor.
Caramel Bits: Replace butterscotch chips with caramel bits for an indulgent caramel twist. These rich bites melt wonderfully and introduce a luscious sweetness, elevating your cookie game.
Sea Salt Topping: Add an extra sprinkle of coarse sea salt right before serving. It enhances that signature sweet-and-salty balance that makes these cookies utterly irresistible.
Matcha Magic: Incorporate a tablespoon of matcha powder for a unique flavor twist and beautiful green hue. This not only adds an earthiness but also a nutritional boost to your cookies.

For more inspirations, check out my recipes for Malted Peanut Cookies or the famous Neiman Marcus Cookies!

What to Serve with Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies

Indulging in warm, gooey cookies is just the beginning of a memorable dessert experience. Complement their delightful sweetness with these mouthwatering pairings.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with chewy cookies, creating a heavenly dessert duo. Top with warm cookie crumbles for extra flair.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this decadent sauce over the cookies adds an extra layer of flavor, accentuating the sweet and salty elements. Perfect for drenching!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing side can balance the richness of the cookies, enhancing your dessert experience without overwhelming it. Try a medley of berries and citrus.
Chocolate Milk: This classic drink pairs perfectly with cookies, making it a nostalgic treat that both kids and adults will love. The sweetness intensifies the cookie experience.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of brewed coffee enhances the flavors and provides a lovely bitter taste that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Milkshake: Blend up a vanilla or caramel milkshake for a fun and indulgent treat, inviting guests to dip cookies in for an extra special moment.
Chocolate Chip Muffins: Bring in more diversity with soft muffins, creating a playful assortment to brighten up gatherings. Their moist texture pairs well with crispy cookies.
Brownies: For the ultimate sweet tooth experience, serve fudgy brownies alongside the cookies, further enhancing your dessert platter with rich flavors.
Cheesecake Bites: Creamy, tangy bites are a delightful contrast and fit right into your indulgent dessert lineup, inviting everyone to taste that special blend of flavors.

Storage Tips for Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep the cookies in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to one week.
Freezer: Freeze your Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for up to three months, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag.
Reheating: Warm frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds for a comforting treat.

Expert Tips for Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh butter and eggs for the best flavor and texture—stale ingredients can lead to disappointing results.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to maintain the chewy texture of your Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to get creative! Adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips can enhance the flavor profile and make the cookies your own.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as they bake; pulling them out when they’re just lightly golden ensures a soft, chewy center.
Chill for Thickness: For a thicker cookie, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking—this helps control spread and enhances texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks wanting to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just remember, chilling helps enhance the flavors while keeping your cookies chewy. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough directly onto a lined baking sheet and bake as instructed. If you’d like to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months—simply thaw overnight in the fridge before baking to enjoy fresh cookies with minimal effort!

Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of pretzels work best for these cookies?
Absolutely! You can use traditional pretzel sticks or pretzel crisps, depending on your preference for crunch. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, there are many gluten-free pretzel brands that work wonderfully. Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces to ensure the crunch is evenly distributed throughout your cookies.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Very! Your Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For prolonged freshness, you can refrigerate them, and they will last for up to one week. Be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze these cookies?
Of course! Freezing is a great way to enjoy your cookies later. To freeze, first place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag and label with the date. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Great question! Overmixing the dough can lead to excess spreading, so be careful to mix just until combined. Another tip is to chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking; this helps prevent spreading and makes for thicker, chewier cookies. If you find your cookies still spread too much, it may be worth checking your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure precision.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! If you or someone in your household has allergies, it’s wise to ensure all ingredients are safe—particularly with the butterscotch chips and pretzels, as these can contain gluten and dairy. Additionally, feel free to use dairy-free butter and chocolate options to make the cookies suitable for vegans. Just keep in mind the flavor might vary slightly, but they still make a delightful treat.

Can I customize the mix-ins beyond what’s suggested?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! Feel free to experiment with different flavors—try adding a mix of dried fruits like cranberries or cherries, or swap in your favorite nuts for added texture. White chocolate chips or even crushed toffee bits can also add a delicious twist to your Sea Salt Butterscotch Pretzel Cookies!