Salted Caramel Brownies

Salted Caramel Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for anyone who loves the divine combination of rich chocolate and buttery caramel. These brownies feature a fudgy, dense texture layered with luscious salted caramel sauce and a hint of sea salt that elevates every bite.

The balance between sweetness and saltiness makes this dessert truly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party, holiday, or simply to treat yourself, these brownies are guaranteed to impress and satisfy every chocolate craving.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it strikes the perfect harmony between deep, dark chocolate and silky salted caramel. The gooey caramel layer adds a luxurious touch to the classic brownie, while the sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully.

Every bite melts in your mouth, offering a perfect balance of chewy, rich, and creamy textures. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make — no complicated techniques, just pure comfort and decadence in every square.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dessert because it transforms simple ingredients into something magical. The contrast between the fudgy brownie base and the gooey salted caramel center is what dessert dreams are made of. It’s perfect for any occasion — from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties.

If you love the combination of salty and sweet, this dessert will win your heart instantly. These brownies also store and freeze beautifully, so you can always have a rich, satisfying treat ready to go.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 55 minutes

Servings: 12 brownies
Calories: Approximately 310 kcal per serving

Cuisine and Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter
• 8 oz (225g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (95g) all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

For Garnish:

• Flaky sea salt for topping (optional but highly recommended)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Make the caramel sauce by melting sugar, adding butter, and stirring in cream and salt. Set aside to cool.
2. Melt butter and chocolate together until smooth.
3. Stir in sugars, eggs, and vanilla.
4. Add flour, cocoa, and salt — mix just until combined.
5. Pour half the batter into a lined pan, add caramel, then top with remaining batter.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes.
7. Cool completely before cutting and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns amber in color. Stir continuously to prevent burning. Add butter carefully (it will bubble), stir until melted, then slowly pour in heavy cream. Cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat, add sea salt, and let cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a microwave-safe bowl or double boiler, melt butter and chopped chocolate until smooth. Allow to cool slightly. Add granulated and brown sugar, mixing until combined. Whisk in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift together flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then fold them gently into the wet mixture. Do not overmix — just stir until the flour is incorporated for fudgy brownies.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Line an 8×8-inch (20x20cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Pour half the brownie batter into the pan, spread evenly, then drizzle half the cooled caramel sauce. Add the remaining brownie batter on top, followed by swirls of more caramel. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes.

Step 5: Cool and Finish

Let the brownies cool completely in the pan. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt once cooled. Slice into squares and enjoy the rich, gooey layers of caramel and chocolate.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the Salted Caramel Brownies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. For a coffee pairing, they go beautifully with a cup of espresso, cappuccino, or hot chocolate. You can also serve them chilled for a denser, fudgier texture — perfect for dessert platters or gifting.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use good-quality chocolate — it makes all the difference in taste and texture.
• Don’t overbake: The brownies will continue to set as they cool, so remove them when slightly underdone in the center.
• Cool completely before cutting to get clean, even slices.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch and balance sweetness.
• Salt balance: Use flaky sea salt for the best contrast — avoid regular table salt.

Variations for This Recipe

1. Nutty Caramel Brownies: Add chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
2. Espresso Caramel Brownies: Mix 1 teaspoon of espresso powder into the batter for deeper flavor.
3. Double Chocolate Caramel Brownies: Add chocolate chips or chunks for extra gooeyness.
4. Peanut Butter Caramel Brownies: Swirl in peanut butter with caramel before baking.
5. Dark Sea Salt Brownies: Use 70% dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet version.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Room Temperature: Store brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days — the texture becomes more fudge-like when chilled.
• Freezer: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk and spatula
• Saucepan (for caramel)
• Wire cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time, use a good-quality store-bought salted caramel sauce.

Q2: How do I make the brownies extra fudgy?
Use less flour and avoid overbaking — that’s the secret to dense, moist brownies.

Q3: Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Double all ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 35–40 minutes.

Q4: What’s the best way to cut brownies neatly?
Chill them before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

Q5: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Brownies are a dessert that truly delivers on every level — fudgy, rich, buttery, and perfectly balanced with a touch of salt.

Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors that make it impossible to stop at just one square. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just for yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. It’s the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers and caramel fans alike — decadence made simple!