Sweet and Salty Air-Fried Pretzels are a perfect balance of sweet caramelized glaze and a salty crunch. These bite-sized pretzel treats are air-fried for a quick, crispy finish and coated with a buttery sugar-spice blend. Ideal as a snack for parties, movie nights, or just indulging in a flavorful treat, these pretzels are easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups mini pretzels
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt until combined. - Coat the Pretzels:
Place the mini pretzels in a large mixing bowl. Pour the glaze over the pretzels and toss until all pretzels are evenly coated. - Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes. - Cook the Pretzels:
Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Spread the glazed pretzels in a single layer. Air fry at 350°F for 4-6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even caramelization. Watch closely to prevent burning. - Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the pretzels from the air fryer and let them cool completely on a wire rack. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for an extra pop of flavor. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.
Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
- Total Time: 10-12 minutes
Serves
- Makes 4 servings.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 130
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
Key Notes
- Flavor Variations:
- For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze.
- Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
- Storage: Store cooled pretzels in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Even Coating: Use a silicone spatula to ensure every pretzel gets an even layer of the glaze.
- Batch Cooking: If making a larger batch, cook in multiple rounds to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair these pretzels with a creamy caramel dip or enjoy them alongside a cup of hot chocolate.
Sweet and Salty Air-Fried Pretzels are a versatile, crowd-pleasing snack that delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Quick to whip up, they’re a must-have for any snack table!