Pin A fiery, crunchy, and savory-sweet snack bar combining soft muffin texture with spicy pretzels and a cheesy kick. These Flamin Hot Spicy Pretzel Muffin Bars are perfect for parties or game day treats.
I wanted something with the comfort of a muffin but the addictive crunch of a spicy pretzel snack. The flavor combination surprised my friends and quickly disappeared from the serving plate!
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)
- Optional topping: pinch extra cayenne or chili flakes
Instructions
- Prep Your 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.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Add Pretzels & 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 & Finish Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently until just combined (do not overmix).
- Spread & Top:
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. 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 & 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.
Pin Whenever I bring these bars to family game nights, my cousins race to grab the crispiest pieces. They're always an instant conversation starter & flavor favorite!
Notes & Swaps
For extra spice, add diced pickled jalapeños to the batter. Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella, or serve with ranch dip for a tangy contrast.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, baking pan, parchment paper, wire rack, and knife are all you need for fuss-free prep.
Nutritional Info
Each serving has 185 calories, 8 g fat, 22 g carbohydrates, and 5 g protein.
Pin These spicy pretzel muffin bars are the ultimate snack—hot, cheesy, and satisfyingly crisp. Grab one fast before they're all gone!
Recipe Q&A
- → How spicy are these bars?
The bars have a noticeable heat thanks to cayenne, hot sauce, and Flamin Hot pretzels, but spice is adjustable. Add extra chili flakes for more intensity or reduce cayenne for milder bars.
- → Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Pepper jack or mozzarella work well for a different flavor and melt. Mix and match cheeses for your preferred taste.
- → Do these bars stay soft or get crunchy?
The base is tender like a muffin, with a crunchy topping from crushed pretzels and baked cheddar. For a firmer texture, chill after baking.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, provided the pretzels and cheese do not contain animal-based rennet. Always check packaging for dietary specifics.
- → How long do the bars keep fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, bars stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly or serve chilled based on preference.
- → What can I serve these with?
Pair the bars with ranch dip, sour cream, or a cold beer. They complement game day snacks or party spreads wonderfully.