There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and salty, especially when it comes to desserts. My love for salted caramel brownies began during a family gathering where my aunt brought a batch that left everyone craving more. The rich chocolate flavor paired with the gooey salted caramel was a revelation. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to perfect this recipe, and I’m excited to share it with you. These brownies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of flavors that will make any occasion special.
Why This Recipe Works
There are several reasons why this salted caramel brownie recipe stands out from the rest:
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The combination of rich chocolate and sweet caramel, enhanced by a sprinkle of sea salt, creates a flavor profile that is both indulgent and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes gourmet.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Whether you want to add nuts, swap out chocolate types, or even incorporate different flavors of caramel, the possibilities are endless.
- Impressive Presentation: The glossy top layer of caramel and the contrasting dark brownie base make for a visually stunning dessert that is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe serves about 12 brownies and requires a prep time of 20 minutes, with a cook time of 30 minutes.
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, remove it from the heat and stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Layer the Brownie Batter: 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 brownie batter on top.
- Add More Caramel: Drizzle the remaining salted caramel sauce over the top of the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake!
- Cool and Serve: Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Sprinkle with sea salt just before serving for that extra touch.
My Pro Tips for Success
- Use Quality Chocolate: The better the chocolate, the richer your brownies will taste. Opt for high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
- Make Your Own Caramel: If you have the time, making homemade salted caramel can elevate your brownies to a whole new level.
- Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the brownies for about an hour before slicing them into squares.
- Add Nuts: For added texture, consider folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the brownie batter.
What I Serve With This Recipe
- Vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Fresh berries to add a tart contrast to the sweetness.
- A drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce for those who can’t get enough.
- A cup of strong coffee or espresso to balance the sweetness.
FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)
Can I use dark chocolate instead of cocoa powder? Yes, you can melt dark chocolate and use it in place of cocoa powder for a richer flavor.
How do I store leftover brownies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze these brownies? Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
What if I don’t have salted caramel sauce? You can make your own by melting sugar until it turns golden brown, then adding cream and a pinch of salt. Alternatively, you can use regular caramel sauce and sprinkle sea salt on top.
Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table
This salted caramel brownie recipe is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful treat that can elevate any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these brownies are sure to impress.
Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe: A Sweet and Salty Chocolate Treat
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, melt the unsalted butter and stir in the sugar until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth it out evenly.
- Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the batter, then pour the remaining brownie batter on top.
- Finish by drizzling the rest of the salted caramel sauce over the top of the batter.
- Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
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