Fudgy Salted Caramel Brownies

If you’re craving a rich, decadent dessert that perfectly balances sweet and salty, look no further than these Fudgy Salted Caramel Brownies. With a deep chocolate flavor, gooey caramel swirls, and a sprinkle of sea salt on top, these brownies are the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this recipe promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These brownies are the perfect marriage of chocolate and caramel, delivering a luxurious texture that’s both fudgy and gooey. Unlike cakey brownies, these stay moist and dense, making every bite a delight. The sea salt topping cuts through the sweetness, enhancing the caramel and chocolate flavors without overpowering them. Plus, the recipe is straightforward, using common pantry staples and a simple method that even beginner bakers can follow with confidence.

If you love experimenting with rich desserts, you might also enjoy trying Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies for a twist on classic brownie decadence.

What Goes In

• 1 cup unsalted butter – provides the rich base and keeps the brownies fudgy.
• 2 cups granulated sugar – adds sweetness and helps create a shiny crust.
• 4 large eggs – bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the chocolate flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – gives structure without making the brownies cakey.
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – delivers the deep, intense chocolate flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – just enough to provide a slight lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and intensifies flavors.
• 1 cup caramel sauce – homemade or store-bought, this adds gooey, buttery sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt – sprinkled on top for a perfect salty crunch.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking pan – ideal size for even baking and manageable portions.
• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk and spatula – for mixing and folding ingredients gently.
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure precise ingredient amounts.
• Microwave-safe bowl or saucepan – to melt butter.
• Cooling rack – to cool brownies evenly after baking.

Make Fudgy Salted Caramel Brownies: A Simple Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix Sugar

In a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove, melt the butter until fully liquid. Stir in the granulated sugar until well combined. This mixture will be slightly grainy but that’s okay—it helps create the glossy brownie top.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Your batter will start to get thicker and shiny.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting ensures no lumps and a smooth batter.

Step 5: Fold Dry Into Wet

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the brownies tough.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Caramel

Pour half the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over it. Carefully spread the remaining brownie batter on top. Finish by swirling the remaining caramel across the surface with a knife or skewer to create beautiful caramel ribbons.

Step 7: Bake and Salt

Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked—this keeps them fudgy. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the teaspoon of sea salt evenly over the top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. This step is crucial for the fudgy texture. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy!

Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions

• Butter: You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version, but it may slightly change the texture.
• Granulated sugar: Brown sugar can be used for a moister, chewier brownie.
• All-purpose flour: For a gluten-free option, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Caramel sauce: If you want to make your own, simmer sugar and cream together until golden, or use a store-bought version for convenience.

Little Things that Matter

• Using unsweetened cocoa powder is key for that rich chocolate flavor without added sugar.
• Don’t skip the sea salt topping; it’s what elevates these brownies from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Letting the brownies cool completely ensures they slice cleanly and the texture sets perfectly.
• Swirling the caramel rather than mixing it in gives you those gorgeous pockets of gooey caramel in every bite.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag—freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, let thaw at room temperature and warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that gooey texture.

FAQ

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce or omit the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting your brownies.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The edges should look set and slightly pulling away from the pan, but the center should still be a little soft and underbaked to keep them fudgy.

Can I make these brownies vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, use coconut oil or vegan butter, and ensure the caramel sauce is dairy-free for a vegan-friendly treat.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts to get neat squares without crumbling.

Serve with These

• Cheesecake Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies – for a creamy, cookie-filled dessert pairing.
• Cinnamon Sugar Churro Bites – add a spicy-sweet contrast to the rich chocolate and caramel.

Let’s Eat

There’s nothing quite like breaking into a freshly baked batch of Fudgy Salted Caramel Brownies. The crackly top gives way to a luscious, chocolatey center swirled with ribbons of buttery caramel and kissed with sea salt. Whether paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on their own, these brownies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and impress anyone lucky enough to share them with. Grab a glass of cold milk or your favorite hot beverage, and dive into these irresistible treats!

Indulge in the magic of combining textures and flavors that make brownies more than just a dessert—they become an experience. Happy baking!

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