Salted Caramel Brownies: The Ultimate Fudgy Chocolate Indulgence

The secret to these salted caramel brownies’ success lies in achieving that perfect fudgy texture while creating a smooth, unburnt caramel. Follow these precise measurements and steps for consistently amazing results every time.

Key Info

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 16 squares
Difficulty: Moderate
Dietary: Contains dairy, eggs, gluten

Equipment Needed

• 8×8-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Heat-proof spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Alternative: Use microwave-safe bowl instead of saucepan for melting

Ingredients

For the Brownies:

• 200g dark chocolate (7 oz)
• 225g unsalted butter (1 cup)
• 200g granulated sugar (1 cup)
• 3 large eggs
• 120g all-purpose flour (1 cup)
• 30g cocoa powder (1/3 cup)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Salted Caramel:

• 200g granulated sugar (1 cup)
• 90g butter (6 tbsp)
• 120ml heavy cream (1/2 cup)
• 1 tsp sea salt

Method

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the caramel:
   • Heat sugar in saucepan over medium heat until amber colored (5-6 minutes)
   • Add butter (will bubble vigorously)
   • Slowly pour in cream while stirring
   • Add salt, set aside to cool
3. Make brownie batter:
   • Melt chocolate and butter together until smooth
   • Whisk in sugar until dissolved
   • Beat in eggs one at a time
   • Fold in flour, cocoa powder, vanilla, salt
4. Assembly:
   • Pour 2/3 batter into pan
   • Drizzle 1/2 caramel sauce
   • Add remaining batter
   • Swirl remaining caramel on top
5. Bake for 35 minutes until toothpick comes out with moist crumbs

Crucial Tips

• Room temperature eggs prevent seizing
• Don’t overmix after adding flour
• Never walk away from cooking caramel
• Cool completely before cutting

Storage

Room temperature: 5 days in airtight container
Freezer: Up to 3 months wrapped well

Common Mistakes

• Overbaking (brownies continue cooking while cooling)
• Burning caramel (keep heat medium)
• Not lining pan (makes removal difficult)

Variations

• Add crushed nuts
• Swirl in peanut butter
• Top with flaky sea salt
• Add espresso powder for mocha flavor

The secret to these salted caramel brownies’ success lies in achieving that perfect fudgy texture while creating a smooth, unburnt caramel. Follow these precise measurements and steps for consistently amazing results every time.