Save A fiery, crunchy, and savory sweet snack bar combining soft muffin texture with spicy pretzels and a cheesy kick. Perfect for parties or game day treats.
The first time I made these bars was for a family movie night and they were devoured before the main feature even started. The mix of heat and crunch is seriously addictive, and every time I bake them, someone asks for the recipe.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups (180 g)
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup (100 g)
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Cayenne pepper: ½ tsp
- Flamin Hot flavored pretzels, roughly chopped: 1 cup (60 g)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: ½ cup (60 g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Buttermilk: ½ cup (120 ml)
- Vegetable oil: ¼ cup (60 ml)
- Hot sauce: 1 tsp
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Flamin Hot flavored pretzels, crushed (topping): ⅓ cup (20 g)
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (topping): ¼ cup (30 g)
- Extra cayenne or chili flakes (optional topping): pinch
Instructions
- Prepare pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Add pretzels and cheese:
- Fold in the chopped Flamin Hot pretzels and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add buttermilk, vegetable oil, hot sauce, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Combine batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Spread batter:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Add toppings:
- Sprinkle the crushed pretzels and shredded cheddar evenly over the top. Add extra cayenne or chili flakes for more heat, if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden and crisp.
- Cool and slice:
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice into 12 bars.
Save My kids love helping to crush the pretzels for the topping. It turns snack time into family fun and friendly competition for the crunchiest pieces.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, 8x8 inch baking pan, parchment paper, wire rack, knife
Allergen Information
Contains: wheat (gluten), eggs, milk. Soy may be present in pretzels and hot sauce. Always check packaging for cross contamination warnings.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 185, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 22 g, Protein: 5 g per serving (1 bar)
Save Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy these bars with a cold drink or your favorite dip for maximum flavor punch!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How spicy are these snack bars?
The bars offer noticeable heat from Flamin Hot pretzels and cayenne, but the spice can be dialed up or down with added jalapeños or extra chilies.
- → Can I substitute a different cheese for cheddar?
Absolutely! Pepper jack or mozzarella work well, adding different flavors and textures to suit your taste.
- → Is it possible to make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them in advance and store chilled for up to three days. They stay firm and fresh for snacking.
- → What’s the best way to serve these bars?
Serve warm for a gooier bite, or chill for firmer texture. Pair with cold drinks or dips like ranch for extra enjoyment.
- → Are these bars vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the ingredients are vegetarian. Always check packaged pretzels and sauces for hidden animal-derived components.