If you’re ready to fall head over heels for a homemade dessert, this Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Each bite combines the rich intensity of dark chocolate with ribbons of luscious salted caramel, all crowned with a sprinkle of sea salt that brings each flavor over the top. It’s a decadent treat that feels fancy enough for special occasions, yet easy enough to whip up on a cozy afternoon. Chocolatey, gooey, and beautifully marbled – these brownies are everything a dessert lover dreams of!

Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Everything you need for this Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe is likely already in your kitchen, but each ingredient is essential to get that perfect symphony of chocolate and caramel. Here’s why each one counts in bringing these brownies to life.

All-purpose flour: Forms the backbone of the brownies, providing just enough structure without taking away from the fudgy texture.
Granulated sugar: Used in both brownie and caramel, it brings sweetness and helps create that classic shiny brownie top.
Light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle molasses flavor that pairs beautifully with the caramel.
Unsalted butter: Creates richness in both the brownies and caramel; using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness of the final treat.
Large eggs: Bind everything together while giving the brownies a luxurious, chewy bite.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep, chocolatey flavor – make sure to use a good-quality cocoa for the best results.
Vanilla extract: A little vanilla balances all the sweet flavors and rounds out the caramel notes.
Salt: Just a touch in the batter brings out the chocolate flavor, while sea salt in the caramel adds a gourmet twist.
Heavy cream: Melts into the caramel for that irresistible, silky texture – don’t skip warming it first for super-smooth results.
Sea salt: Sprinkled on top, this crunchy finishing touch makes every bite pop with flavor!

How to Make Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or generously grease it. This step keeps your brownies from sticking and helps you lift them out effortlessly later on, which is especially handy with gooey caramel swirled throughout.

Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel

Pour 1 cup of granulated sugar into a heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium heat. Stir occasionally, watching as the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color. Add 6 tablespoons of butter, and stir until fully melted. Next, slowly stream in your warm heavy cream, whisking constantly – be careful, as the mixture will bubble up! Once smooth, stir in ½ teaspoon of sea salt and set your caramel aside to cool for a few minutes. The dreamy aroma is your first promise of flavor-packed brownies ahead.

Step 3: Whip Up the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your melted butter, both sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is glossy and well combined. Sift in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt to avoid lumps. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet just until you see no more streaks – overmixing can make brownies cakey instead of fudgy.

Step 4: Layer and Swirl

Pour half of your brownie batter into the pan and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Drizzle half of your still-warm salted caramel over the batter. Cover with the remaining brownie mixture, then finish with the rest of the caramel. Use a knife or the end of a spoon to gently swirl the batter and caramel together for that gorgeous marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide your pan into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges look set but the center is just slightly soft; it’ll continue to firm as it cools. Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle with a little extra sea salt for an eye-catching, flavorful finish. Let the brownies cool completely before slicing to get perfect, decadent squares.

Step 6: Slice, Serve, and Savor

After cooling, lift the brownies out using the parchment, cut into generous pieces, and get ready for dessert bliss. The Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe results in irresistible swirls and the most delicious chewy centers!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top is a must for that sweet-salty combo, but you can also dust your brownies with a little cocoa powder, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of extra caramel for an extra-luxurious touch.

Side Dishes

Serve your Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. If you want to go all-out, coffee or espresso makes a wonderful partner to balance their richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack brownies artfully on a cake stand, wrap individual pieces in parchment and kitchen twine for gifting, or cut into bite-size squares for an elegant dessert buffet. If it’s a special occasion, add berries or edible flowers for a pop of color and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Brownies keep best in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Store them in single layers separated by parchment so the caramel doesn’t stick the pieces together. The flavor and texture often get even better by the next day!

Freezing

The Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe freezes like a dream. Once completely cooled, wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months – just let them thaw at room temperature when you’re ready for a treat.

Reheating

To restore that fresh-baked warmth, microwave brownies for about 10 to 15 seconds. If you have more time, you can reheat them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5–10 minutes, which slightly melts the caramel and makes them as gooey as when they first came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While homemade caramel brings a rich depth of flavor, high-quality store-bought caramel sauce will work in a pinch and speed things up if you’re short on time.

What if I don’t have sea salt? Can I use regular table salt?

You can use regular salt in the batter and caramel, but for that distinct sweet-salty pop on top, larger flakes like kosher or Maldon sea salt are best for texture and taste.

How do I know when the brownies are done?

The edges should feel set, but the center should still look slightly soft – a toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs. Remember, brownies continue to cook a bit as they cool!

Can I make the Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe gluten free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. The texture will still be fudgy and delicious.

Why is it important to let the brownies cool before slicing?

Allowing them to cool completely lets the caramel set and gives those gooey centers time to firm up, so you get neat, picture-worthy slices every time.

Final Thoughts

If you love a dessert that wows both in looks and taste, this Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe is a must-bake. The swirl of homemade caramel and perfect hit of sea salt take classic brownies to ultra-decadent territory. Don’t be surprised if these vanish quickly – they’re just too good not to share!