Salted Caramel Brownies

If you’re looking for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate with gooey caramel and just a hint of salt, these Salted Caramel Brownies are calling your name. Imagine biting into a fudgy, chocolatey brownie layered with luscious salted caramel sauce and topped with a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate every bite. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these brownies will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and salted caramel, and these brownies capture that magic perfectly. Here’s why you’ll want to bake them again and again:

• Irresistible flavor combo: The deep cocoa flavor paired with buttery caramel and a pinch of sea salt creates a crave-worthy taste experience.
• Perfect texture: Fudgy yet slightly cakey, these brownies strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft.
• Simple ingredients: You likely already have everything in your pantry, making it easy to whip up any time.
• Versatile dessert: Great for parties, potlucks, or a cozy night in, and they store well for leftovers.
• Customizable toppings: Add nuts, extra chocolate chips, or drizzle with White Chocolate Buttercream for an extra special touch.

What’s in the Bowl

Before you start baking, here’s everything you’ll need to create these decadent Salted Caramel Brownies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter – melted to bring richness and moisture
• 2 cups granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure
• 1 cup packed brown sugar – adds depth and chewiness
• 4 large eggs – bind the ingredients and give the brownies lift
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – enhances flavor
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – the base of the batter
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder – for that intense chocolate taste
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps with a slight rise
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness and intensifies chocolate
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – melty chocolate pockets inside
• 1 cup salted caramel sauce – the star layer that makes these brownies unforgettable
• Sea salt for topping – a sprinkle to finish

What You’ll Need (Gear)

Having the right tools on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• 9×13-inch baking pan – for even baking and classic brownie shape
• Mixing bowls – one large for batter and one small for dry ingredients
• Whisk or electric mixer – to combine ingredients thoroughly
• Rubber spatula – for folding in chocolate chips and scraping the bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
• Cooling rack – to cool brownies evenly and prevent sogginess

Stepwise Method: Salted Caramel Brownies

Step 1: Prep your pan and preheat oven

Line your 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Melt the butter and combine sugars

In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted unsalted butter. Add both the granulated and brown sugar. Whisk together until fully combined and smooth. This mixture should look glossy and slightly thick.

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with aromatic sweetness.

Step 4: Mix dry ingredients separately

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumps.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Use a rubber spatula to fold everything together gently. Avoid overmixing; stop once the flour is just incorporated.

Step 6: Fold in chocolate chips

Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the batter and fold them in evenly. These will melt slightly, adding pockets of chocolate throughout the brownies.

Step 7: Layer the batter and caramel

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out. Finally, swirl the remaining caramel sauce over the top using a knife or skewer to create beautiful caramel ribbons.

Step 8: Bake and cool

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check doneness; a few moist crumbs are perfect, but it shouldn’t be wet. Once baked, remove from the oven and sprinkle sea salt over the top while still warm. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack before cutting.

Smart Substitutions

• Butter: Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, but expect a slight coconut flavor.
• Brown sugar: Use coconut sugar for a more caramel-like taste and lower glycemic index.
• Chocolate chips: Swap semi-sweet for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
• Salted caramel sauce: Homemade caramel sauce is easy to make and allows you to control sweetness and saltiness, or use store-bought as a shortcut.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t skip sifting the cocoa powder and flour – lumps can ruin the texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter once you add dry ingredients, or your brownies will be tough instead of tender.
• Don’t overbake – brownies should be fudgy, not dry. Check a few minutes before the timer goes off.
• Don’t forget the sea salt topping – it’s the finishing touch that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

These brownies keep well and can be made ahead for convenience:

• Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• You can freeze individual brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Brownies are perfect for meal prep dessert boxes or sweet snack packs.

FAQ

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Ensure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are also gluten-free certified for best results.

How do I make my brownies extra fudgy?

To achieve a fudgier texture, slightly reduce the flour by 2-3 tablespoons and avoid overbaking. Remove the brownies from the oven when a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs, not completely clean.

Can I use caramel candies instead of caramel sauce?

You can melt caramel candies with a little cream or milk to create a caramel sauce. Heat gently on the stove while stirring until smooth, then use as directed in the recipe.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies without making a mess?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. For cleaner slices, chill the brownies for an hour before cutting. This helps the caramel and chocolate set for neater edges.

Similar Recipes

• Milky Way Cheesecake Brownies – Another decadent twist on classic brownies with layers of cheesecake and chocolate.
• White Chocolate Buttercream – Perfect for frosting your brownies or cupcakes with a creamy, sweet finish.
• Easy Banana Bread Recipe – A moist and flavorful quick bread, ideal for when you want a less chocolatey treat.

The Takeaway

With its irresistible marriage of rich chocolate and luscious salted caramel, these Salted Caramel Brownies are a must-bake for any dessert lover. The layers of flavor and texture—from the fudgy crumb to the gooey caramel swirls and the crunch of sea salt—create a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Plus, the straightforward ingredients and simple steps make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels. Once you try these brownies, they’ll quickly become a go-to recipe you’ll make over and over. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready to enjoy the ultimate brownie experience!

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