BestRecipesBlog.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Salted caramel brownies are the perfect blend of rich chocolate and indulgent caramel, creating a dessert that’s both decadent and comforting. These brownies are a delightful treat that marries the fudgy texture of traditional chocolate brownies with the luxurious sweetness of homemade salted caramel, elevating your dessert game to new heights.
Origin and History
The Allure of Brownies
Brownies have a storied history, believed to have originated in the United States in the late 19th century. Their unique, dense texture and rich flavor quickly made them a beloved dessert. Over the years, bakers have taken creative liberties by adding various ingredients to enhance the basic recipe, with salted caramel emerging as a favorite companion, adding depth and complexity.
Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The Magic of Salted Caramel
The salted caramel in these brownies is what truly sets them apart. Made by gently heating sugar until it transforms into a golden syrup and then combining it with cream and a touch of sea salt, it strikes a perfect balance between sweet and savory. When drizzled over fudgy brownies, it creates an irresistible contrast that captivates the palate. The subtle saltiness brings out the intense chocolate flavor, making each bite a harmonious explosion of taste.
Cooking Techniques
Creating the perfect salted caramel requires patience and a watchful eye, as it can go from beautifully golden to burnt in a matter of seconds. This meticulous process is well worth the effort and adds a level of sophistication to your brownies that is sure to impress. The combination of techniques—baking the brownies to a fudgy perfection while crafting the caramel to the ideal consistency—transforms a simple dessert into a showstopper.
Salted Caramel Brownies
Description
These decadent brownies are layered with gooey salted caramel, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist. Perfect for chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
Salted Caramel Brownies Ingredients
Instructions
Preparing the Brownie Batter
-
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the brownie batter. This ensures even baking.Make sure to place your oven rack in the center for optimal heat distribution. -
Melt the Chocolate and Butter
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine 1 cup of unsweetened chocolate and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Stir until melted and smooth.Keep an eye on it! You don’t want the chocolate to seize; gentle heat is key. -
Mix in Sugar and Eggs
Remove from heat and whisk in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of packed brown sugar. Let the mixture cool slightly, then add 4 large eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition.This step is crucial for creating a shiny crust on your brownies. -
Add Dry Ingredients
Sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder. Gently fold them into the wet mixture until just combined.Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay.
Creating the Salted Caramel Layer
-
Prepare the Caramel
In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until the sugar dissolves and turns a deep amber color.Swirl the pan gently if needed, but resist the urge to stir; this can cause crystallization. -
Add Cream and Salt
Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of sea salt. The mixture will bubble up, so be cautious.Let the caramel cool slightly before using it in the brownies.
Assembling and Baking
-
Layer the Batter and Caramel
Pour half of the brownie batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan. Drizzle half of the caramel over the batter, then pour the remaining brownie batter on top. Swirl the caramel in with a knife for a marbled effect.Don’t overdo the swirling; you want distinct layers of brownie and caramel. -
Bake the Brownies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.Keep an eye on them towards the end; overbaking will make them dry.
Finishing Touches
-
Cool and Slice
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before slicing into squares. Drizzle any remaining caramel on top and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt.This cooling time helps set the caramel and makes slicing easier.
Note
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for smooth incorporation.
- Whisk the eggs and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy for a tender brownie texture.
- Don’t overmix once you add the flour; a few streaks are okay.
- For a deeper caramel flavor, cook the sugar until it’s a deep amber color, but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before the caramel sets for an added crunch and flavor contrast.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before cutting to avoid crumbling.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- These brownies can be frozen; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.