This Salted Caramel Brownies recipe is relatively easy to make, requiring basic baking skills and common ingredients found in most kitchens. The brownie batter comes together quickly with melted butter, sugars, eggs, cocoa powder, and flour, resulting in a rich and fudgy base.
The addition of homemade salted caramel sauce elevates these brownies to a new level of indulgence, adding a sweet and salty contrast that perfectly complements the chocolatey richness. The process of swirling the caramel into the brownie batter not only enhances the flavor but also creates a visually appealing marbled effect.
These brownies are a crowd-pleasing dessert that combines classic flavors with a sophisticated twist, making them ideal for any occasion or as a special treat for yourself.
Here’s why you should give them a try
- Decadent Indulgence: With their rich, fudgy texture and luxurious salted caramel swirls. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and treating yourself to a little bit of luxury.
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The combination of rich chocolate brownies and sweet-salty caramel is a match made in dessert heaven. The deep, chocolatey flavor of the brownies pairs perfectly with the buttery sweetness of the caramel and the hint of sea salt adds a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
- Impressive Presentation: Not only do these brownies taste amazing, but they also look stunning with their marbled swirls of caramel throughout. They’re sure to impress guests at any gathering or make a beautiful addition to your dessert table.
- Versatile Dessert: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, bringing a treat to a potluck, or simply satisfying your own cravings, these salted caramel brownies are a versatile dessert option that’s always a hit. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
- Homemade Goodness: By making these brownies from scratch, you have control over the quality of ingredients and can enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade dessert that’s sure to be appreciated by all. Plus, nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked brownies wafting through your kitchen!
Some tips to help you make perfect salted caramel brownies
- Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract for the best flavor. Fresh ingredients will yield the most delicious results.
- Properly Prepare the Pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This makes it easy to lift the brownies out of the pan once they’re cooled, resulting in cleaner cuts.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When mixing the brownie batter, be careful not to overmix once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough brownies. Mix until just combined for tender, fudgy brownies.
- Make the Caramel Carefully: When making the caramel sauce, be attentive and watch it closely as it cooks. Caramel can quickly go from golden to burnt, so stir frequently and remove it from the heat as soon as it reaches the desired amber color.
- Cool the Caramel: Allow the salted caramel sauce to cool slightly before drizzling it over the brownie batter. This helps prevent it from sinking too deeply into the batter and ensures a more defined swirl pattern.
- Create Swirls Gently: Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the caramel into the brownie batter. Avoid over-swirling, as this can cause the caramel to mix too much with the batter, resulting in a less distinct marbled effect.
- Let the Brownies Cool Completely: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows them to set and ensures cleaner cuts. For even cleaner cuts, you can chill the brownies in the refrigerator for about an hour before slicing.
- Store Properly: Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm them slightly before serving for the best texture and flavor.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to baking the most delicious and irresistible salted caramel brownies!
FAQ’s about Salted Caramel Brownies
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making homemade caramel?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time or prefer the convenience. However, homemade caramel adds a unique flavor and texture to the brownies that you may not achieve with store-bought versions.
Can I freeze these brownies?
Yes, these brownies freeze well. Once cooled and sliced, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before serving, or heat them gently in the microwave for a quick thaw.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The brownies are done baking when the edges are set and slightly pulled away from the sides of the pan, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry brownies.
Can I omit the sea salt if I don’t want a salty flavor?
Yes, you can omit the sea salt if you prefer your brownies without the salty-sweet contrast. However, the salt enhances the flavor of the caramel and adds depth to the overall taste of the brownies. Adjust the amount of salt according to your personal preference.
Can I use this recipe to make regular brownies without the caramel swirl?
Absolutely! This brownie recipe works great on its own without the caramel swirl. Simply skip the step of adding the salted caramel sauce, and bake the brownies as directed. You’ll still end up with deliciously fudgy brownies that are sure to be a hit.
Easy Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe
Ingredients
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup 225g unsalted butter
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 1 cup 200g brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup 120g all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup 75g unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons 85g unsalted butter, cubed
- ½ cup 120ml heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt or to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- Make the Brownie Batter:In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Gradually pour in the melted butter and sugar mixture, whisking constantly until smooth.Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt into the wet ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Do not overmix.Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Make the Salted Caramel Sauce:In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium-high heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula. The sugar will clump and then melt into a thick, amber-colored liquid.Once the sugar has melted completely and turned a deep amber color, add the butter all at once, stirring vigorously until melted and well combined.Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Be careful as the mixture will bubble up. Continue stirring until the caramel is smooth and well combined.Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the sea salt to taste. Let the caramel cool slightly.
- Assemble the Brownies:Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the brownie batter in the baking pan, using a spoon or spatula to spread it out evenly.Use a knife or toothpick to create swirls by gently dragging the caramel through the brownie batter.
- Bake the Brownies:Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Serve and Enjoy:Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the brownies out of the pan. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice into squares.Serve the salted caramel brownies on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.