Save Few things satisfy quite like a batch of salted caramel brownies fresh from the oven Each fudgy bite combines deep chocolate richness with ribbons of silky caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt for that can not stop at one effect These brownies have rescued me on stressful weekdays and become a birthday tradition for my best friend who claims no dessert compares
The first time I made these was on a snow day thinking the caramel would be overkill but now my family insists on them for every movie night and celebration
Ingredients
- Brownie batter: homemade or boxed your foundation for fudgy chocolate flavor choose a quality baking chocolate or premium cocoa for homemade or select a trusted boxed mix for speed and reliability
- Caramel sauce: creamy and rich this is key to the gooey center choose a thick sauce either store bought or homemade
- Sea salt flakes: just a sprinkle transforms caramel from sweet to complex Maldon is my favorite for large flakes
- Optional chopped pecans: for those craving crunch make sure they are fresh and consider toasting for extra flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter:
- Make your brownie batter following package or homemade directions Beat until just combined to avoid tough brownies
- Layer the First Batter:
- Pour half of the brownie batter into your lined baking pan Smoothing with a spatula ensures even thickness and prevents caramel from sinking to the bottom
- Add Caramel and Salt:
- Drizzle thick caramel sauce slowly over the batter letting it naturally ooze into the corners Do not worry if it is not totally even Scatter sea salt flakes generously across the caramel to create pops of salt in every bite
- Finish and Swirl:
- Spread the remaining brownie batter over the caramel in big dollops Use a butter knife to gently marble the top layer and caramel together Swirl without overmixing so you get distinct ribbons of caramel
- Bake and Cool:
- Bake in a preheated oven as directed for your recipe usually between thirty to forty minutes Do not overbake for maximum gooeyness For easiest slicing let the brownies cool completely so the caramel sets
Save I always gravitate toward the bites with the biggest caramel pools and I love how the sea salt brings out the flavor of good chocolate My niece once declared these better than her birthday cake
Storage Tips
Brownies keep best tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days For extra fudge factor store in the fridge and serve slightly chilled They also freeze well wrapped individually for a grab and go indulgence
Ingredient Substitutions
No sea salt flakes coarse kosher salt works in a pinch Nut allergy omit pecans for a classic version or use sunflower seeds for crunch Out of caramel try spreading a decadent dulce de leche in the middle
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for maximum melt factor Dress up each piece with a drizzle of warm caramel and a pinch more salt These brownies make an amazing base for an ice cream sundae bar
Cultural Context
Salted caramel desserts rose to fame in France before becoming an international dessert staple The interplay of sweet and salty makes this treat universally appealing
Seasonal Adaptations
Try pumpkin caramel in the fall for a spicy twist Top with tart berries in summer after baking for brightness Mint caramel pairs well for winter holidays
Save A quick batch of these brownies is just what you need to impress at gatherings or to indulge on a quiet night in Enjoy every caramel filled bite
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of caramel sauce works best?
Thick, rich caramel sauce—homemade or store-bought—yields gooey layers and intense flavor.
- → Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, both homemade and boxed mixes work well. Choose your favorite for convenience or scratch-made richness.
- → How do I achieve a perfect caramel swirl?
Drizzle caramel evenly, use a knife to gently swirl before baking, and avoid overmixing for distinct layers.
- → What is the best way to add crunch?
Fold in chopped pecans or your choice of nuts to the batter or sprinkle on top before baking for texture.
- → How should brownies be stored?
Allow brownies to fully cool, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- → Can sea salt be substituted?
Coarse kosher salt or flaky finishing salt can be used for a similar taste and texture contrast.