Irresistible Salted Caramel Brownies: The Ultimate Fudgy & Gooey Dessert

Prepare to be truly amazed by these incredible salted caramel brownies. They are a decadent fusion of intensely fudgy chocolate brownies and rich, buttery homemade salted caramel. This recipe isn’t just about a topping; it’s a full caramel experience, with a luscious caramel layer baked right into the heart of the brownie batter, and then more caramel drizzled generously on top after baking. The result is an explosion of salty-sweet flavor and an unbelievably gooey texture that runs through every single bite!

These salted caramel brownies are a true celebration of gooey caramel nestled within amazing, rich brownies. They are absolutely perfect for anyone who loves chocolate, caramel, or, ideally, both! If you or your loved ones adore the sweet and salty combination of caramel, this recipe is destined to become your new favorite brownie creation. The depth of flavor and the irresistible texture will have everyone reaching for another piece.
We’ve included comprehensive tips, tricks, and detailed process photos to effortlessly guide you through making this spectacular recipe. If you’re a fan of indulgent brownie desserts, you simply must also try our Salted Caramel Turtle Brownies for another sensational treat that combines chocolate, caramel, and pecans.

Why These Salted Caramel Brownies Are a Must-Try

Beyond being simply delicious, these salted caramel brownies offer a dessert experience that truly stands out. What elevates this recipe above the rest is the meticulous approach to caramel integration. We don’t just stop at a drizzle; we ensure a generous, gooey layer of homemade salted caramel is lovingly baked into the very core of the brownie. This internal layer melts and melds with the fudgy chocolate during baking, creating pockets of rich, chewy sweetness. But the caramel journey doesn’t end there! After baking, the warm brownies are perforated and infused with even more luscious caramel, ensuring that every square boasts an intense, pervasive caramel flavor from top to bottom.

This dual caramel application guarantees an unparalleled depth of flavor and a texture that is exquisitely fudgy, delightfully chewy, and undeniably rich. It’s the ultimate dessert for impressing guests at any gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging your own sweet cravings. The balance of sweet and salty is perfectly calibrated, making each bite a harmonious dance of flavors. Forget dry, cakey brownies – prepare for a deeply satisfying, moist, and utterly irresistible treat that will leave you craving more. This recipe transforms a classic favorite into a gourmet masterpiece.

Essential Tips for Crafting Flawless Salted Caramel Brownies

Achieving bakery-quality salted caramel brownies is simpler than you might imagine when armed with these expert tips and tricks. Follow these guidelines closely to ensure your brownies turn out perfectly, consistently fudgy, and bursting with flavor, just like the ones pictured here!

• Precision with Flour Measurement: For the quintessential fudgy brownie texture, accurate flour measurement is non-negotiable. Always spoon your all-purpose flour into the measuring cup lightly, then level it off with the straight edge of a knife or a flat spatula. Never pack the flour by scooping the measuring cup directly into the flour container; this compresses the flour, leading to an excess amount. Too much flour will result in a drier, more cake-like brownie, which is the opposite of the dense, rich fudginess we desire. For ultimate precision, a kitchen scale is always recommended.
• Prepare Your Caramel in Advance: Homemade salted caramel lends an incredible depth of flavor and a superior texture that often surpasses store-bought alternatives. For optimal results, we strongly advise making your caramel ahead of time. It needs to be completely cooled and thickened before you can successfully incorporate it into the brownie batter. Using warm caramel will cause it to melt and mix into the batter prematurely, losing its distinct layer. While a high-quality store-bought caramel can be a convenient substitute if you’re truly pressed for time, the homemade version truly elevates these brownies. For a comprehensive, step-by-step guide, please refer to our dedicated post on how to make perfect homemade salted caramel.
• Assemble Brownies Promptly: Once your brownie batter is mixed, it’s best to work efficiently. Transfer it to the prepared pan and assemble the layers without delay. Brownie batter, especially one rich in chocolate and fats, can begin to thicken and set as it sits, making it more challenging to spread smoothly. Working quickly ensures a uniform and even distribution of both the brownie batter and the caramel layer, which is key for beautifully structured brownies.
• Strategic Caramel Placement: When it’s time to layer the caramel into the brownie batter, begin by spreading approximately half of the brownie batter evenly across the bottom of the prepared pan. Next, carefully spoon about 3/4 cup of the cooled salted caramel over this first layer of batter. The critical step here is to leave a distinct 1-inch border around the edges of the pan without caramel. This crucial margin prevents the caramel from overheating, crystallizing, or hardening excessively during baking, ensuring it remains wonderfully soft and gooey. Finally, gently top the caramel layer with the remaining brownie batter, making sure it completely covers the caramel.
• Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: Although not explicitly mentioned in the original list, utilizing room temperature ingredients for both the caramel and the brownie batter is fundamental for achieving the best possible results. Eggs, butter (for caramel), and heavy cream should be at room temperature as this facilitates smoother mixing and proper emulsification. Cold ingredients can cause mixtures to curdle or seize, especially when making caramel, and prevent the brownie batter from coming together smoothly, potentially affecting the final texture and rise. Plan ahead and take these ingredients out of the refrigerator at least 1-2 hours before you begin baking.
• Avoid Overbaking for Ultimate Fudginess: The ultimate secret to truly fudgy brownies lies in knowing precisely when to remove them from the oven. A toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies (making sure to avoid the hidden caramel layer) should emerge with moist crumbs clinging to it, not wet batter, and certainly not completely clean. If the toothpick comes out entirely clean, your brownies are likely overbaked and will lean towards a cakey texture. That slight moistness indicates a perfectly fudgy, slightly underbaked center that will set beautifully as the brownies cool. Remember, brownies continue to cook subtly from residual heat even after they’re removed from the oven.

Visual Guide: Step-by-Step Brownie Making

Sometimes, seeing is believing, and a visual walkthrough can make the baking process much clearer and more approachable. Here are some visual cues captured directly from our kitchen, illustrating key stages in crafting these decadent salted caramel brownies.

The Magic of Homemade Salted Caramel

At the heart of these truly extraordinary brownies lies the undeniable magic of homemade salted caramel. While convenient store-bought options are available, nothing quite compares to the rich, complex flavor and impeccable consistency of caramel crafted from scratch in your own kitchen. The process, though requiring a bit of attention, is incredibly rewarding. It involves carefully melting granulated sugar until it transforms into a beautiful, molten amber liquid, developing deep, nuanced flavors. Then, luxurious unsalted butter and velvety heavy cream are slowly incorporated, creating a smooth, silken sauce that is both opulent and intensely flavorful.

A critical touch of sea salt is then added, which brilliantly elevates the sweetness, balancing the flavors and introducing that addictive “salted” dimension that makes this caramel so irresistible. This homemade caramel isn’t merely an afterthought or a simple topping; it’s an integral component of the entire brownie experience, weaving its way through the dense, fudgy chocolate layers and creating delightful pockets of pure, chewy bliss. By taking the time to make your caramel from scratch, you gain complete control over its quality, flavor, and consistency, guaranteeing a truly gourmet result that will impress even the most discerning palates. The extra effort is undeniably worth it for the depth of flavor it brings to these sensational brownies.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These salted caramel brownies are undeniably magnificent on their own, offering a complete and satisfying dessert experience. However, a few thoughtful additions can elevate them even further, transforming them into an unforgettable indulgence. Imagine serving a warm brownie with a generous scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the cold, creamy ice cream to melt ever so slightly into the fudgy chocolate and the warm, gooey caramel. The contrast in temperatures and textures is simply divine.

For those who appreciate an extra pop of flavor, a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving can intensify the “salted” aspect of the caramel, creating a delightful crunch and enhancing the overall taste profile. Beverage-wise, a strong, freshly brewed espresso or a creamy latte makes an excellent companion, as the coffee’s slight bitterness beautifully cuts through the richness of the brownies, creating a balanced and sophisticated pairing. These brownies are also perfectly suited for various occasions; they’re an absolute hit at potlucks, parties, and family gatherings, and they make a thoughtful, impressive homemade gift for any dessert enthusiast. When it comes to storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain their freshness and fudgy texture. For longer preservation, they can be refrigerated, though we recommend bringing them back to room temperature before serving for the best experience.

Explore More Decadent Caramel Recipes

If your love affair with caramel has just begun with these spectacular brownies, we have more delightful recipes for you to explore, each designed to bring joy to your kitchen and your palate. Indulge in the creamy, dreamy decadence of our Caramel Cheesecake, a luscious dessert that perfectly balances rich cream cheese with swirls of golden caramel. Or, for the ultimate fusion of chocolate and caramel, experience our exquisite Chocolate Caramel Cake, a multi-layered masterpiece that promises pure bliss with every forkful. These recipes are perfect for expanding your repertoire and satisfying your deepest caramel cravings.

If you’ve baked these incredible brownies and loved them as much as we do, we’d be absolutely thrilled if you could take a moment to leave a star rating and review below! Your valuable feedback not only helps us but also assists other aspiring bakers in discovering and enjoying this truly special recipe. Don’t forget to share your delectable creations on Instagram and tag us @stephaniesweettreats – we love seeing your baking triumphs! For even more baking inspiration, sweet ideas, and delightful dessert recipes, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.

Salted Caramel Brownies: Recipe Video Guide

For those who learn best through visual instruction, our detailed recipe video provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to create these sensational salted caramel brownies. Watch closely as we demonstrate each crucial technique, from the delicate art of preparing the perfect homemade caramel to the precise layering of the fudgy brownie batter in the pan. This video is thoughtfully designed to make your baking experience as smooth, enjoyable, and successful as possible, ensuring you achieve truly delicious and visually stunning results every single time you bake.

Watch the full recipe video here for a visual guide to making these decadent brownies, and follow along for a perfect batch!

★★★★★

5 from 9 reviews

Salted Caramel Brownies

Stephanie Rutherford

These salted caramel brownies are truly extraordinary: fudgy chocolate brownies layered with rich homemade salted caramel. A generous caramel swirl is baked into the center, and then more caramel is drizzled on top after baking, ensuring a deep, consistent caramel flavor throughout every bite.

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Prep Time: 45 minutes mins

Cook Time: 40 minutes mins

Chilling Time: 30 minutes mins

Total Time: 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

Servings: 16 slices

Ingredients

Salted Caramel

• 1 cup White granulated sugar
• 4 TBSP Unsalted butter, room temperature and cubed
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream, room temperature
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp Salt

Brownies

• 1 1/2 cups White granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup Powdered sugar
• 3 Large eggs, room temperature
• 1 Egg yolk
• 1/2 cup Unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup Oil, canola or vegetable
• 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup All-purpose flour
• 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder, I use Dutch process
• 1 TBSP Cornstarch
• 1 tsp Salt
• 1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Salted Caramel

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar. Allow it to sit undisturbed for a few minutes until the edges begin to melt and liquefy. Then, use a heatproof whisk to gently mix the melting sugar. It will initially be very clumpy and granular. Continue stirring the sugar occasionally until it is almost entirely melted. Once most of the sugar is liquid, stir continuously to ensure all crystals dissolve and a smooth, amber-colored syrup forms. This stage can happen quickly, so watch closely to prevent burning.
   1 cup White granulated sugar
2. Continue to cook the caramel until it reaches a rich amber color, which typically takes only seconds after it’s fully melted. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat to prevent it from burning. Carefully add half of the cubed unsalted butter and whisk vigorously until it is fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the caramel. Then, add the remaining butter, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth, homogenous, and quite bubbly.
   4 TBSP Unsalted butter
3. Pour in half of the room temperature heavy cream, mixing well until fully combined. Next, add the rest of the cream, followed by the salt and vanilla extract. Return the pan to very low heat and stir continuously for about 3 minutes, allowing the caramel to gently cook and thicken slightly to a luscious consistency. Take the pan off the heat and carefully pour the hot caramel into a heatproof glass measuring cup or jar. Allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes, or until it reaches room temperature and achieves a pourable but thickened consistency.
   1/2 cup Heavy cream, 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp Salt

Brownies

4. Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175°C). Prepare a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) square baking pan by thoroughly spraying it with a nonstick baking spray. Line the bottom and two opposing sides of the pan with parchment paper, leaving a generous overhang to create “handles” that will make lifting the brownies out much easier. Spray the parchment paper again for extra non-stick insurance.
5. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the measured all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch process for a deeper color and flavor), cornstarch, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together thoroughly until they are uniformly combined, ensuring no lumps remain. Set this mixture aside.
   1 cup All-purpose flour, 1 cup Unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 TBSP Cornstarch, 1 tsp Salt
6. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the white granulated sugar, powdered sugar, room temperature large eggs, and the extra egg yolk on high speed for precisely 2 minutes. This crucial step incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in a pale, thick, and fluffy consistency that helps to achieve the signature crinkly top and luxurious texture of perfect brownies.
   1 1/2 cups White granulated sugar, 1/2 cup Powdered sugar, 3 Large eggs, 1 Egg yolk
7. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Gradually add the melted unsalted butter, canola or vegetable oil, and pure vanilla extract into the egg mixture. Mix on low speed only until these wet ingredients are just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as over-aerating can lead to a less fudgy texture. Next, slowly add the reserved dry ingredients mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until the batter is almost completely combined, with only a few small streaks of flour still visible.
   1/2 cup Unsalted butter, 1 tsp Pure vanilla extract, 1/2 cup Oil
8. Remove the bowl from the mixer stand. Add the semi-sweet chocolate chips to the brownie batter. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the chocolate chips into the batter until they are just evenly distributed. Again, avoid overmixing at this final stage to ensure your brownies remain wonderfully tender and fudgy.
   1 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips
9. Pour approximately half of the prepared brownie batter into your lined 9×9-inch baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, carefully pour about 3/4 cup of the cooled, thickened salted caramel over this first layer of brownie batter. Using an offset icing spatula, gently spread the caramel, ensuring you leave a clear 1-inch border around the perimeter of the pan. This border is essential to prevent the caramel from becoming excessively hard or sticky during baking. Finally, carefully spoon or pour the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer, gently spreading it to completely cover and encase the caramel.
10. Bake the brownies in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. To test for doneness, gently insert a toothpick into the center of the brownies, being careful to avoid hitting the caramel layer. The toothpick should come out with moist crumbs clinging to it, not wet batter. If it comes out with significant wet batter, bake for an additional 5 minutes, then recheck. Remember, slight moistness ensures a perfectly fudgy brownie.
11. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and immediately transfer it to a wire cooling rack. Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. This step is absolutely critical; attempting to cut warm brownies will result in a messy, crumbling disaster and will compromise their fudgy texture. Patience is key here!
12. After the brownies have cooled completely, use the parchment paper overhangs to carefully lift the entire slab out of the pan and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Take a wooden skewer or a round chopstick and poke small, evenly spaced holes all over the top surface of the cooled brownies.
13. If the remaining salted caramel has become too thick to pour easily, warm it slightly in the microwave for a few seconds until it reaches a pourable consistency. Generously pour and spread this warmed caramel over the poked brownies, using an offset spatula to ensure it seeps into all the holes, infusing every part of the brownie with more delicious caramel flavor. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the caramel to fully seep into the holes and set slightly. Finally, cut the brownies into perfect squares and serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Recipe Notes & Expert Tips

Flour Measurement: For the fudgiest brownies, always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a flat edge. Compacted flour adds too much dry ingredient, which can dry out the brownies and cause them to become more cakey rather than dense and rich. For ultimate accuracy, measuring by weight with a kitchen scale is always recommended.

High Altitude Baking: If you reside in a high-altitude area (typically above 3,500 feet), you may need to make slight adjustments to this recipe. A common modification is to add an extra 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour to the dry ingredients mixture to help provide additional structure and prevent excessive spreading.

Temperature Matters for Ingredients: For both the homemade caramel and the brownie batter, ensuring that your dairy ingredients (butter, heavy cream, and eggs) are at room temperature is crucial. Room temperature ingredients emulsify and combine much more smoothly, leading to a consistent and velvety mixture. This helps prevent curdling in the caramel and ensures a more uniform brownie batter. Plan ahead and pull these ingredients out of the refrigerator at least 2 hours before you intend to begin your baking process.

Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Once you’ve added the dry ingredients and especially after incorporating the chocolate chips, mix the brownie batter only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dense, and chewy brownie texture, rather than the desirable soft, fudgy, melt-in-your-mouth consistency we are aiming for.

Patience with Cooling: Resist the strong temptation to cut into warm brownies! Allowing the brownies to cool completely in the pan, preferably on a wire rack, is a non-negotiable step. This cooling period allows the brownies to fully set, solidifying their fudgy texture and making them significantly easier to cut into clean, perfect squares. Rushing this step will result in crumbly, messy brownies.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (approximately 1/16th of recipe):

Calories: 396kcal, Carbohydrates: 51g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 24g, Saturated Fat: 11g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g, Monounsaturated Fat: 9g, Trans Fat: 0.4g, Cholesterol: 44mg, Sodium: 225mg, Potassium: 166mg, Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 36g, Vitamin A: 396IU, Vitamin C: 0.04mg, Calcium: 24mg, Iron: 2mg

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