Instructions:
Prepare the Pretzels:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Spread the pretzels evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
Make the Caramel:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil.
Allow it to boil for 4-5 minutes without stirring.
Remove from heat and add the vanilla extract, stirring to combine.
Combine:
Pour the caramel mixture over the pretzels, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel if desired.
Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly.
Cool and Drizzle:
Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on the baking sheet.
If using chocolate chips, melt them in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel-covered pretzels.
Serve:
Once the chocolate is set, break the caramel pretzels into pieces and enjoy!
