Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe
If you are on the hunt for a dessert that perfectly balances rich chocolate and luscious caramel with a touch of sea salt, this Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe will become your new favorite go-to treat. Combining fudgy, dense brownie layers with gooey ribbons of caramel and a sprinkle of salt crystals, every bite delivers a heavenly mix of sweet and salty that delightfully melts in your mouth. This recipe is delightfully straightforward yet guarantees a bakery-quality dessert that will wow family and friends alike. Prepare to fall in love with this sensational twist on classic brownies that feels both indulgent and comforting at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe is how a handful of simple, essential ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Each one plays a crucial role—from butter adding moistness and richness, to cocoa powder bringing that deep chocolate flavor, and caramel sauce layering on sticky sweetness with a salty finish.
- Salted butter (1/2 cup, melted): Provides a rich foundation and balanced savoriness that enhances both the chocolate and caramel.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup): Adds sweetness while helping the brownies achieve the perfect texture.
- Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brings moisture and a hint of molasses depth to the batter.
- Large eggs (2): Bind all ingredients together and add structure for chewy fudginess.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Elevates all the flavors with a warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): Creates the body of the brownies without making them cakey.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Brings intense chocolate flavor and dark color.
- Baking powder (1/4 tsp): Just enough leavening to keep the texture tender but dense.
- Salt (1/4 tsp): Balances sweetness and amplifies the overall taste.
- Caramel sauce (1/3 cup): Use store-bought or homemade for those gooey, luscious swirls of sweetness.
- Sea salt flakes (1 tsp, for topping): Adds that beautiful, crunchy pop of saltiness on top.
How to Make Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to easily lift the brownies out later. This simple prep ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out cleanly without sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars until everything is smooth and combined. This mixture is the sweet, buttery base that your brownies will build upon. Then add the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly so everything is fully incorporated and glossy.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt to avoid any lumps. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mix using a spatula, taking care not to overmix. This step is key to achieving that tender, fudgy texture without toughening the batter.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Caramel
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Then drizzle half of your caramel sauce over this layer and use a knife to create beautiful swirls. Follow with the remaining brownie batter, spreading it gently over the caramel, then top off with the rest of the caramel sauce. Swirl once again for that gorgeous marbled effect that will make these brownies look extra special.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle the sea salt flakes evenly over the entire top. These crystals not only enhance the salted caramel flavor but also create a wonderful texture contrast that makes every bite addictive.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, checking at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking. The edges should be set, but the center still soft with moist crumbs when tested with a toothpick. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out by the parchment overhang. This give time for the caramel to settle and the brownies to firm up perfectly for slicing.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe
Garnishes
These brownies are already show-stoppers, but adding an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few caramel drizzle lines right before serving can elevate the presentation and flavor. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of cocoa powder for a café-style finish.
Side Dishes
Imagine pairing your Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of strong coffee or espresso. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, chewy brownies, while coffee enhances the chocolate’s depth and cuts through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the brownies into bite-sized pieces and thread them onto skewers with fresh berries or marshmallows for dessert kabobs. Alternatively, serve them layered in a dessert trifle with whipped cream and caramel sauce for an elegant party treat that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and chewy. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, refrigerate them for up to one week.
Freezing
Salted caramel brownies freeze beautifully! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to retain that perfect fudgy texture.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy a warm brownie, gently heat a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven for 5 minutes. This quick reheating brings the caramel to gooey perfection without drying the brownie out.
FAQs
Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce can add a wonderful depth of flavor. Simply melt sugar until golden, add butter, and finish with cream and a pinch of sea salt. But store-bought caramel sauce works well too if you’re short on time.
What type of cocoa powder is best for this recipe?
Using unsweetened natural cocoa powder is ideal for a rich chocolate flavor. Dutch-processed cocoa will produce a slightly different texture and flavor but can still be used if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Butter lends a distinctive richness and flavor that oil can’t quite replicate, so it’s best not to substitute if possible. However, if needed, use a neutral oil, but expect a slightly different texture and taste.
How do I know when the brownies are done?
Look for set edges and a center that still has moist crumbs when poked with a toothpick. Avoid overbaking to keep them fudgy rather than cakey.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure your cocoa powder and other ingredients are gluten-free certified to avoid cross-contamination.
Final Thoughts
This Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe is a delightful crowd-pleaser that brings together the ultimate chocolate and caramel lovers’ dream. Fudgy, gooey, and perfectly balanced with shimmering sea salt, these brownies are more than just a dessert—they are a celebration of flavor and texture. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to spark smiles all around your table.
Print
Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Decadent Salted Caramel Brownies combining rich cocoa and buttery batter with luscious caramel swirls and a touch of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty. These indulgent brownies are perfect for dessert or a special treat, boasting a moist, fudgy texture and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
Brownie Batter
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Caramel Topping
- 1/3 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the brownies once baked.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter and sugar mixture by whisking thoroughly until fully blended and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gently fold this dry mixture into the wet batter, mixing just until no dry streaks remain to maintain a tender texture.
- Layer Batter and Caramel – First Layer: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth base layer.
- Add Caramel Swirl – First Half: Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly over the batter. Use a knife to gently swirl the caramel into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Layer Batter and Caramel – Second Layer: Spread the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer with care to maintain the swirl pattern and then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top. Swirl again lightly to create an attractive marbled look.
- Add Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle the sea salt flakes evenly over the top of the batter to add a wonderful salty contrast to the sweetness.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. The brownies are done when the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Be careful to not overbake to keep them fudgy.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift out the brownies, slice into 12 squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a richer chocolate flavor.
- The caramel sauce can be homemade or store-bought; adjust the amount to taste if you prefer more or less sweetness.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean edges and prevent crumbling.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate to keep fresh longer.
- For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
