Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies Recipe

Heavenly Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies Recipe: Sweet Bliss

Decadent salted caramel fudge brownies will make dessert lovers swoon with pure chocolate bliss.

Sweet and salty notes dance together in this irresistible treat.

Rich cocoa mingles perfectly with buttery caramel layers.

Chocolate enthusiasts understand the magic of unexpected flavor combinations.

Gooey centers promise intense indulgence for anyone seeking pure comfort.

Dense texture and deep flavor create an unforgettable experience.

Each bite promises a moment of pure culinary joy – you won’t be able to resist this delightful creation.

Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies for Indulgent Chocolate Moments

  • Craft Decadent Layers: Indulge in a rich dessert that combines multiple textures of chocolate and caramel, creating a mouthwatering experience with each bite.
  • Personalize Your Treat: Easily customize the brownies by adjusting the amount of salt in the caramel or adding extra chocolate chips for more intense flavor.
  • Master Gourmet Baking: Learn professional-level techniques like creating homemade caramel and perfectly moist brownies, boosting your culinary confidence.
  • Impress Dessert Lovers: Serve a show-stopping dessert that looks complicated but is surprisingly simple to prepare, making you the star of any gathering.

Must-Have Ingredients for Salted Caramel Brownies

Base Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar: A key sweetening agent that forms the base of the caramel.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and texture to the brownie base.
  • Cocoa Powder: Delivers rich chocolate flavor and deep color to the brownies.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs, Egg Yolk: Bind the ingredients together and create a rich, moist texture.
  • Butter, Oil: Contribute to the moistness and tender crumb of the brownies.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the caramel sauce.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic essence.
Flavor and Texture Enhancers:
  • Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips, Salt, Cornstarch, Powdered Sugar: Provide additional depth of flavor, help with texture, and balance the sweetness of the dessert.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking of the brownies.

Baking Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies from Scratch

Step 1: Create Caramel Base

Heat granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it transforms into a smooth, golden liquid.

Add cubed butter gradually, stirring until fully melted and bubbling.

Slowly incorporate heavy cream, creating a rich, silky caramel mixture.

Step 2: Finish Caramel Sauce

Stir vanilla extract and salt into the caramel, blending thoroughly.

Allow the sauce to cool completely for at least 30 minutes, which helps intensify the flavors.

Step 3: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing it and lining with parchment paper, ensuring easy brownie removal later.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Cornstarch
  • Salt

Set the dry ingredient mixture aside for later use.

Step 5: Create Brownie Base

In a large mixing bowl, whisk granulated sugar, powdered sugar, eggs, and egg yolk on high speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.

Add melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until completely combined.

Step 6: Develop Brownie Batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, creating a smooth chocolate batter.

Gently stir in semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula.

Step 7: Layer Brownies

Spread half the brownie batter into the prepared pan.

Carefully pour half the salted caramel over the batter, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Cover with the remaining brownie batter.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the brownies for 40-45 minutes.

Test doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out with moist crumbs but no wet batter.

Step 9: Final Caramel Touch

Once cooled, use a skewer to create small holes across the brownie surface.

Pour the remaining caramel over the top, allowing it to seep into the brownie layers.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Let the brownies rest for 10 minutes to set.

Slice into squares and serve these decadent salted caramel fudge brownies to eager dessert lovers.

Tricks for Super-Fudgy Brownies with Caramel

  • Heat sugar slowly to prevent burning, stirring constantly for smooth caramel consistency.
  • Use room temperature cream and butter for even mixing and smoother caramel texture.
  • Insert toothpick at an angle near the center; moist crumbs mean perfectly fudgy brownies.
  • Refrigerate brownies for 30 minutes before slicing to get clean, sharp edges.
  • Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for richer, more intense chocolate flavor.

Different Ways to Top Salted Caramel Brownies

  • Gluten-Free Brownie Bliss: Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour or gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive bakers.
  • Vegan Caramel Dream: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and create caramel with coconut milk and coconut sugar.
  • Dark Chocolate Nutty Escape: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate and add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and depth.
  • Low-Sugar Wellness Version: Use monk fruit sweetener or stevia in place of granulated sugar, and incorporate sugar-free chocolate chips for a diabetic-friendly option.

Plating Salted Caramel Brownies for Dessert Spreads

  • Sweet Companion Delight: Pair these rich brownies with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent contrast of warm, gooey chocolate and cool, creamy sweetness.
  • Afternoon Tea Treat: Serve alongside a steaming mug of cappuccino or espresso to balance the brownie's intense chocolate flavor with a smooth, aromatic coffee companion.
  • Elegant Dessert Platter: Arrange brownie squares on a beautiful slate board with fresh raspberries, mint leaves, and a light dusting of powdered sugar for a professional, Instagram-worthy presentation.
  • Gifting Goodness: Package individual brownies in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine for a homemade gift that shows personal culinary love and care.

Storing Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies for Next Day

  • Store brownies in an airtight container with a tight-fitting lid. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days for maximum freshness.
  • Wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Keep brownies at room temperature in a sealed container for 2-3 days. Ensure the container is away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain texture.
  • Warm refrigerated or frozen brownies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crisp edge, use an oven at 325F for 5-7 minutes, which helps restore the original baked texture.

FAQs

  • What makes the caramel in this recipe special?

The caramel is made by directly melting sugar, which creates a deep, rich flavor profile compared to traditional caramel methods. This technique allows for a more complex and intense caramel taste.

  • Can I use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, dark chocolate chips can be substituted for semi-sweet. They will create a slightly more intense chocolate flavor and potentially make the brownies less sweet.

  • Why do I need to whisk the sugars and eggs for 2 minutes?

Whisking for 2 minutes helps incorporate air into the mixture, creating a lighter and more tender brownie texture. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, delicate crumb.

  • How do I know if the caramel is properly cooked?

The caramel is ready when it turns a deep amber color and becomes smooth and glossy.

Print
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Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies Recipe

Salted Caramel Fudge Brownies Recipe


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4.8 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Salted caramel fudge brownies deliver pure chocolate bliss with rich layers of sweet and salty indulgence. Chocolate enthusiasts will savor this irresistible dessert that promises decadent satisfaction in every delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (for brownies)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature, for brownies)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (for brownies)
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for brownies)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for brownies)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for salted caramel)

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (for brownies)
  • 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil (for brownies)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature, cubed, for salted caramel)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (room temperature, for salted caramel)
  • 1 egg yolk (for brownies)

Flavor Enhancers and Small Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for brownies)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (1 for salted caramel, 1 for brownies)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (1/2 teaspoon for salted caramel, 1 teaspoon for brownies)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for brownies)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth and golden.
  2. Incorporate cubed butter into melted sugar, stirring until fully combined and bubbly. Gradually blend in heavy cream until silky.
  3. Infuse caramel with vanilla extract and salt. Allow mixture to cool and stabilize for approximately 30 minutes at room temperature.
  4. Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by greasing and lining with parchment paper.
  5. Combine dry ingredients: whisk flour, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt in a separate mixing bowl until uniformly blended.
  6. Create wet mixture by vigorously whisking granulated sugar, powdered sugar, eggs, and egg yolk for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Integrate melted butter, oil, and vanilla extract until thoroughly incorporated.
  7. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Delicately fold semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula.
  8. Distribute half the brownie batter evenly across prepared pan. Drizzle half the salted caramel over batter, maintaining a 1-inch border from edges. Layer remaining batter on top.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick inserted reveals moist crumbs without raw batter.
  10. Once cooled, perforate brownies with a skewer and cascade remaining caramel across surface, allowing it to penetrate.
  11. Rest brownies for 10 minutes before cutting into elegant squares and serving.

Notes

  • Create a smooth, lump-free caramel by continuously stirring sugar and controlling heat to prevent burning.
  • Use room temperature eggs for better batter consistency and even mixing with other ingredients.
  • Ensure caramel reaches golden amber color without scorching by watching carefully and stirring gently.
  • Line pan with parchment paper overhanging edges for easy brownie removal and clean cutting.
  • For gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend.
  • Chill brownies before cutting for cleaner, more precise slices with minimal crumbling.
  • Store brownies in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • Enhance flavor by adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving for extra caramel-chocolate contrast.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 309 kcal
  • Sugar: 30 g
  • Sodium: 121 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 52 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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