Achieve a fudgy brownie with a gooey salted caramel layer and a slightly crackly top.
These Salted Caramel Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining rich, fudgy chocolate with a luscious layer of salted caramel. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these brownies are a bakery-style treat you can make at home.
Why you'll want it now — Indulge in the perfect balance of rich chocolate and gooey salted caramel.
Why this recipe works
The combination of high-quality cocoa powder and melted chocolate creates an ultra-fudgy brownie base, while the homemade salted caramel layer adds a gooey, buttery contrast. A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness and intensifying the chocolate's richness.
Equipment
9 x 9 in (23 x 23 cm) baking pan
parchment paper
mixing bowls
saucepan
whisk
rubber spatula
How to make it
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 9 in (23 x 23 cm) baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a heatproof bowl, melt the chopped chocolate and butter together over a saucepan of simmering water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the chocolate mixture until just combined. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar for the caramel layer, stirring occasionally, until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully add the butter, stirring until melted, then slowly whisk in the heavy cream until smooth. Stir in the sea salt.
Pour the salted caramel over the brownie batter in the pan. Gently spread the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer.
Bake for 35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center has a slight jiggle.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cut into 16 squares.
Enjoy these decadent Salted Caramel Brownies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee for the perfect treat.
How you'll know it's ready
The brownies are ready when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.
Convection oven? (and if you don't have one)
If using a convection oven, reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and start checking for readiness a few minutes earlier, as convection can bake more quickly.
Frosting, filling & glaze notes
The salted caramel should be smooth and pourable, with a consistency that falls in a slow ribbon from the spoon.
Troubleshooting
If the brownies are too dry, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
If the caramel is too runny, cook it a little longer to thicken before adding to the brownies.
If the brownie batter is too thick to spread, gently warm it slightly to loosen.
If the top of the brownies cracks too much, try reducing the oven temperature slightly.
Storage
Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze wrapped individually for up to 3 months.
Make ahead
You can prepare the salted caramel a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.
Variations
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the brownie batter for extra texture.
Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter with the salted caramel for a nutty twist.
Replace the semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
For the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to make the caramel from scratch, but you can use store-bought in a pinch.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it turns a deep amber color and has a smooth, pourable consistency.
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet?
Yes, but the brownies will be sweeter and have a less intense chocolate flavor.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening?
Ensure you add the cream and butter at the right time and stir continuously to keep the caramel smooth.
Recipe from softsweetdough.com · Soft, sweet desserts worth every bite.
