Caramel Brownies

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Rich, fudgy, and irresistibly decadent—Caramel Brownies are the kind of dessert that command attention at any gathering. Picture a dense, chewy chocolate base swirled with ribbons of golden caramel that ooze from the center with every bite. The contrast of textures between the crackly brownie top and the gooey caramel middle creates an indulgent experience that feels both nostalgic and gourmet.

These brownies are a celebration of bold flavors and unapologetic sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a cozy weekend treat or prepping a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, this dessert delivers maximum impact with minimal effort. The chocolate and caramel combination is timeless, and this version turns up the intensity for a mouthwatering result you won’t soon forget.

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Why You’ll Love This Caramel Brownies Recipe

• Irresistibly gooey: Each square offers a lava-like center of caramel that melts beautifully into the rich brownie.
• Made from pantry staples: Simple ingredients come together to create an extraordinary dessert.
• Perfect texture: A crisp top, chewy edges, and soft center mean you get the best of all brownie worlds.
• Crowd favorite: Whether served warm or chilled, these always disappear quickly.
• Customizable: Add nuts, sea salt, or espresso powder to elevate the flavor even more.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, and the Importance of Each Tool)

Before diving into making these luscious Caramel Brownies, gathering the right tools can make a noticeable difference in both ease and results:

• 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking pan: Ideal size for creating thick, gooey brownie squares with a chewy edge. Line it with parchment paper to ensure easy lifting and minimal mess.
• Mixing bowls (medium and large): You’ll need at least two—one for dry ingredients and one for melting and mixing wet ingredients.
• Whisk and rubber spatula: A whisk helps combine the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy, while the spatula ensures you fold ingredients gently without overmixing.
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler: Necessary for melting the butter and chocolate together evenly without burning.
• Oven thermometer (optional): Ensures your oven is heating to the correct temperature for evenly baked brownies.
• Cooling rack: Allows brownies to set and firm up without overcooking from residual heat.

These tools streamline the process and help you create brownies with that perfect shiny top, dense middle, and clean slice.

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Preparation Tips

• Use room-temperature eggs: They whip up better and help create that signature crinkly top.
• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined to avoid tough brownies.
• Chill the caramel: If you’re using homemade or soft caramel, pop it in the fridge beforehand—it helps to layer and swirl it better without sinking to the bottom.
• Line your pan well: Leave parchment paper hanging over the sides for easy removal.
• Test with a toothpick (but not too clean!): You want a few moist crumbs sticking—if it’s completely clean, you may have overbaked them.

These small tips go a long way toward bakery-quality results right from your own kitchen.

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Ingredients for This Caramel Brownies Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these irresistibly gooey Caramel Brownies:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
• 20-25 soft caramels (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (to melt with caramels)
• Optional: flaky sea salt (for sprinkling on top)

These ingredients balance fudgy richness with creamy caramel, creating the ultimate brownie bite. If you prefer deeper chocolate flavor, you can substitute dark cocoa powder and bittersweet chocolate chips.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 or 9×9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the paper for extra non-stick insurance.

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Step 2: Melt Butter and Chocolate

In a microwave-safe bowl or using a double boiler, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup chocolate chips together until smooth and glossy. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Let it cool slightly before the next step.

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Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until light and slightly frothy. This step helps create that classic crinkle-top.

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Step 4: Combine with Cocoa and Dry Ingredients

Whisk in 1/3 cup cocoa powder until well incorporated. Then gently stir in 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Mix just until no flour streaks remain—don’t overmix!

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Step 5: Prepare Caramel Layer

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine 20-25 soft caramels and 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Melt slowly over low heat or in short microwave bursts, stirring often until smooth and pourable. Let it cool slightly.

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Step 6: Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Drizzle or dollop half the melted caramel over this layer. Add the remaining brownie batter on top and gently smooth it out. Drizzle the rest of the caramel over the top. You can swirl with a knife for a marbled effect or leave it layered.

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Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter). Do not overbake—slightly underdone is better for gooey brownies.

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Step 8: Cool and Slice

Let the brownies cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. For cleaner slices and a firmer texture, chill them in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting. Lift out using the parchment handles and slice into squares.

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Notes

• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare these brownies a day in advance. In fact, the flavor intensifies after resting overnight.
• Homemade Caramel Option: Feel free to use your own homemade salted caramel instead of store-bought caramels—it elevates the flavor beautifully.
• Texture Control: For extra fudginess, reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes. For a firmer bite, bake on the higher end of the time range.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overbaking: The #1 way to ruin a fudgy brownie is to leave it in too long. Check at 30 minutes and pull when a few crumbs cling to the tester.
• Not Cooling Enough: Cutting too soon can make a mess and cause the caramel to spill out unevenly. Let them set fully.
• Uneven layering: If the caramel is too warm or the batter isn’t spread evenly, it can sink to the bottom or clump in one section. Layer with care.
• Skipping parchment paper: It makes removal easier and helps avoid broken, stuck-on brownies.
• Using cold eggs: They won’t emulsify as well, which can lead to a denser texture and dull finish.
• Overmixing the batter: This activates the gluten and leads to tough, cakey brownies instead of chewy ones.
• Not measuring flour properly: Scooping directly from the bag can compact the flour. Always spoon into your cup and level off.
• High heat for caramel: Melting caramels on high heat can cause them to seize. Use low heat and stir constantly.

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What to Serve With Caramel Brownies?

8 Recommendations

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   The cold, creamy texture is the perfect contrast to warm, gooey brownies. A drizzle of extra caramel sauce seals the deal.
2. Espresso or Strong Coffee
   The bitterness of coffee balances the intense sweetness and enhances the chocolate notes.
3. Fresh Berries
   Strawberries or raspberries offer a bright, tart flavor that cuts through the richness.
4. Whipped Cream
   Light and airy, whipped cream adds a silky touch without overpowering the brownie.
5. Salted Nuts
   A handful of toasted pecans or almonds on the side brings crunch and balances the chewy texture.
6. Chocolate Ganache Drizzle
   For an ultra-decadent dessert, add a dark chocolate ganache drizzle over the top.
7. Sea Salt Flakes
   Just a pinch of flaky salt on each brownie piece elevates the flavor and makes the caramel pop.
8. Milk or Oat Milk
   A cold glass of milk (dairy or plant-based) is a nostalgic and satisfying pairing, especially for kids or brownie purists.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your Caramel Brownies fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent the caramel from becoming too sticky.
• Refrigerator: For longer shelf life, refrigerate for up to 1 week. Let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for a softer texture.
• Freezing: Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating tip: Warm individual brownies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for that gooey, just-baked texture.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 9 servings)

• Calories: 340
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 105mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 30g
• Protein: 4g
• Serving Size: 1 brownie (approx. 1/9 of pan)
• Category: Dessert

Note: These values are estimates and can vary depending on specific ingredients or caramel brand used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a boxed brownie mix for this recipe?

Yes! You can prepare your favorite boxed brownie mix and simply add the caramel swirl layer in the middle and on top. It’s a great shortcut for busy days.

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2. How do I know when the brownies are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out with moist crumbs (not raw batter), they’re ready. Slight underbaking keeps them fudgy and gooey.

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3. Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your caramels and chocolate chips are gluten-free as well.

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4. What kind of caramels work best?

Soft, chewy caramels (like Kraft or Werther’s Soft Caramels) work best. Avoid hard caramels or ones that don’t melt smoothly.

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5. Can I add nuts to the brownie batter?

Definitely. Chopped pecans or walnuts work great and add a crunchy contrast to the soft caramel. Stir them into the batter before baking.

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6. Why did my caramel sink to the bottom?

This usually happens if the caramel is too warm or if the batter is too thin. Let the caramel cool slightly and layer carefully for even distribution.

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7. How do I get clean slices?

Chill the brownies for 30 minutes after cooling. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut to get neat, bakery-style squares.

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8. Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase baking time by 5–10 minutes, checking for doneness around 35 minutes.

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Conclusion

Caramel Brownies are the ultimate marriage of fudgy chocolate and buttery caramel, creating a dessert that’s as comforting as it is luxurious. With easy prep, rich flavor, and a texture that’s unbeatable, this recipe earns a permanent spot in your baking rotation. Whether you’re indulging solo or sharing with a crowd, these brownies deliver that perfect bite—every single time.

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