There’s a special kind of joy that comes from watching batter transform into a warm, gooey batch of brownies. When the aroma of melted chocolate and caramel wafts through my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to a place of pure comfort. These Caramel Brownies have a way of capturing that essence with their rich chocolate base, swirled with a luscious layer of melted caramel that’s simply irresistible.
Often, it’s the simplest ingredients that come together to create an unforgettable dessert. If you’re tired of dull weeknight treats or the same old fast-food desserts, this recipe will rekindle your love for homemade sweets. Whether you’re preparing for a gathering or just craving something indulgent, these brownies promise to be a crowd-pleaser, combining ease and extraordinary flavor effortlessly. Let’s dive into this delightful journey, where rich chocolate meets silky caramel, and every bite leaves you wanting more!
Why will you adore these Caramel Brownies?
Indulgence at its finest: These brownies are a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and gooey caramel that makes every bite a moment of joy.
Total crowd-pleaser: Whether for a family gathering or an impromptu dessert night, these treats will impress everyone.
Simplicity is key: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe!
Irresistible aroma: The sweet scent of caramel mingling with chocolate fills your kitchen, setting the perfect mood.
Versatile delight: Enjoy them warm, chilled, or drizzled with extra sauce – there’s no wrong way to indulge!
If you want more delicious dessert ideas, check out my classic brownie recipe.
Caramel Brownies Ingredients
• For a deliciously rich experience, gather the following ingredients for your Caramel Brownies:
For the Brownie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter – ensures a moist and rich texture for your brownies.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder – provides deep chocolate flavor without added sugar.
- 1 cup light brown sugar – adds moisture and a subtle caramel note.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – helps to balance the sweetness and create a tender crumb.
- 3 large eggs – binds the ingredients together and gives structure.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt – enhances sweetness and chocolate flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – creates the perfect chewy texture.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – adds extra chocolatey goodness in every bite.
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk – forms a creamy base for the luscious caramel layer.
- 1 (11-ounce) package caramel candies, unwrapped – melts down to create that irresistible caramel swirled throughout.
For Garnish
- Flaky sea salt (optional) – a sprinkle on top balances sweetness and elevates the flavor.
How to Make Caramel Brownies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter, then line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
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Whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder in a large mixing bowl. Combine them until the mixture is smooth and glossy, showcasing that rich chocolate goodness.
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Add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk until everything is well blended and the mixture is silky and smooth.
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Stir in the all-purpose flour and semi-sweet chocolate chips gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to see those delicious chocolate chips evenly dispersed.
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Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, leveling it out perfectly to create a solid base for that luscious caramel layer.
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Heat the sweetened condensed milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, about 3 minutes, to prepare it for the caramel layer.
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Melt the unwrapped caramel candies and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt into the warm sweetened condensed milk. Keep stirring until everything is fully melted and smooth, then remove from heat.
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Pour ⅔ of the warm caramel sauce over the brownie batter in the pan. It should create a delightful layer, then dollop the remaining brownie batter on top for a swirl effect.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the timer; the shorter bake time yields gooier brownies, while longer baking produces a firmer center.
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Cool in the pan on a wire rack until completely set. This will help the brownies hold their shape when you cut them into squares.
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Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top of the cooled brownies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you’re feeling adventurous.
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Cut into squares and serve. Each bite promises a perfect blend of brownie and caramel!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Caramel Brownies?
Indulging in a rich brownie layered with luscious caramel is pure bliss, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience even further.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy chill of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm caramel brownies, creating a delightful balance of temperatures. Scoop it generously on top for a classic treat!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness, cutting through the richness and brightening each bite. Their vibrant color adds a lovely visual appeal, too.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream lends an airy texture that complements the dense brownies. It’s an effortless way to bring a bit of elegance to your dessert.
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Espresso or Coffee: The deep, bitter notes of coffee enhance the chocolate flavors and caramel sweetness. Whether served as a hot brew or iced, it’s a splendid way to balance the richness.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Go ahead and double the indulgence! A drizzle of melted chocolate over the brownies not only adds visual allure but also amps up the chocolate experience.
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Toasted Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts introduce a lovely crunch and added flavor contrast. Sprinkling them on top offers a textural dimension that keeps each bite exciting.
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Caramel Sauce: Extra caramel sauce for drizzling brings an intensified caramel flavor, making every bite even more delectable.
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Milkshake: Treat yourself to a luscious milkshake made with vanilla or chocolate ice cream; its creamy richness pairs wonderfully with caramel brownies for a nostalgic twist.
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Cheesecake Bites: For a more sophisticated touch, serve mini cheesecake bites. Their tangy creaminess contrasts nicely with the sweet richness of the brownies.
Each of these pairings enriches the experience of enjoying your homemade caramel brownies, ensuring no one walks away from the table unsatisfied!
Expert Tips for Caramel Brownies
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Check the Oven: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature by using an oven thermometer; even a few degrees off can affect baking time.
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Don’t Overmix: When stirring in the flour and chocolate chips, mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to dense brownies instead of the desired fudgy texture.
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Caramel Consistency: If the caramel sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve a smoother pour; it allows for better swirls in your caramel brownies.
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Cooling Time: Be patient—allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting to ensure neat squares and avoid a gooey mess.
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Optional Garnish: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully; don’t skip this step for an elevated taste experience!
Remember, the joy of making Caramel Brownies comes from the process as much as the finished treat!
Make Ahead Options
These Caramel Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the brownie batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply whisk together the melted butter, cocoa powder, sugars, eggs, and vanilla, then stir in the flour and chocolate chips. While the caramel layer can be prepared in advance as well—melt the condensed milk and caramels, cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just remove the batter and caramel from the fridge, pour the caramel over the batter, dollop the remaining batter on top, and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy warm, gooey brownies with minimal effort and maximum taste!
How to Store and Freeze Caramel Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep your caramel brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, store the brownies in the fridge for up to a week. Just ensure they’re covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: To enjoy later, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to indulge, thaw the brownies in the fridge overnight and warm them briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Caramel Brownies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these brownies your own with these delightful tweaks!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch and added richness.
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Minty Fresh: Add 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the brownie batter for a refreshing mint twist that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
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Gooey Extras: Swap in 1 cup of crushed Oreos or your favorite candy bars for an extra layer of fun flavor and texture.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond or oat milk in place of sweetened condensed milk to create a delicious dairy-free version.
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Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel layer for a surprising hot-and-sweet combination.
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Savory Pairing: Top with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of balsamic glaze after baking for an intriguing sweet-and-sour flavor contrast.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in some chopped dried cherries or cranberries for a tart note that complements the rich caramel and chocolate beautifully.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add a mix of white chocolate chips along with the semi-sweet ones for a double chocolate delight that’s absolutely irresistible!
These variations are designed to dazzle your taste buds and make your Caramel Brownies uniquely yours. Enjoy experimenting!
Caramel Brownies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Caramel Brownies?
Absolutely! When selecting chocolate for your caramel brownies, pick semi-sweet chocolate chips that are shiny and free from any dull spots. For butter, choose unsalted for better control over the sweetness, and ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
What’s the best way to store leftover Caramel Brownies?
To keep your caramel brownies fresh, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just be sure they are well covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze my Caramel Brownies, and if so, how?
Yes! To freeze your caramel brownies, cut them into squares and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!
What should I do if my brownies are too gooey?
If you find your caramel brownies are undercooked, the culprit is often the baking time. The gooey texture can be delightful, but if you prefer them firmer, bake them a bit longer while keeping an eye on them. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs but not wet batter. If they’re too dry, that’s a sign of overbaking, so adjust the time accordingly next time.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of when making these brownies?
Great question! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure to double-check the labels on your chocolate chips and caramel candies, as they may contain allergens like nuts or dairy. For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend. If you’re making them for pets, remember that chocolate and caramel can be harmful to them, so it’s best to keep these treats away from your furry friends.
Can I substitute the ingredients in my Caramel Brownies?
Very! If you need to substitute, consider using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option. You can also replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but it’s worth experimenting for your taste!
Indulge in Decadent Caramel Brownies You Can’t Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or butter, then line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
- Whisk together the melted butter and cocoa powder in a large mixing bowl. Combine them until the mixture is smooth and glossy, showcasing that rich chocolate goodness.
- Add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk until everything is well blended and the mixture is silky and smooth.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour and semi-sweet chocolate chips gently. Be careful not to overmix; you want to see those delicious chocolate chips evenly dispersed.
- Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, leveling it out perfectly to create a solid base for that luscious caramel layer.
- Heat the sweetened condensed milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until warmed through, about 3 minutes, to prepare it for the caramel layer.
- Melt the unwrapped caramel candies and remaining ½ teaspoon of salt into the warm sweetened condensed milk. Keep stirring until everything is fully melted and smooth, then remove from heat.
- Pour ⅔ of the warm caramel sauce over the brownie batter in the pan. It should create a delightful layer, then dollop the remaining brownie batter on top for a swirl effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the timer; the shorter bake time yields gooier brownies, while longer baking produces a firmer center.
- Cool in the pan on a wire rack until completely set. This will help the brownies hold their shape when you cut them into squares.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top of the cooled brownies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Cut into squares and serve. Each bite promises a perfect blend of brownie and caramel!