Salted Caramel Brownies

Salted Caramel Brownies Recipe: The Ultimate Gooey, Fudgy Dessert Everyone Craves

If you love rich chocolate desserts with that perfect balance of sweet and salty, these salted caramel brownies are about to become your new obsession. They’re intensely fudgy, swirled with gooey caramel, and finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that takes every bite to the next level. This is the kind of dessert that disappears fast at parties, potlucks, or even a quiet night at home when chocolate cravings hit hard.

Whether you’re baking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers bakery-quality brownies without complicated steps or fancy ingredients.

Why You’ll Love These Salted Caramel Brownies

These brownies check every box. They’re rich without being overly sweet, incredibly fudgy without feeling underbaked, and the salted caramel adds depth that plain brownies just don’t have. The recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, but the results feel impressive enough for special occasions. Plus, they stay moist for days, making them perfect for make-ahead desserts or meal prepping sweet treats for the week.

Serving Size and Time Breakdown

Serving Size
12 to 16 brownies, depending on how large you cut them

Prep Time
15 minutes

Cook Time
30 to 35 minutes

Total Time
45 to 50 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

You don’t need anything fancy to make these brownies, which is another reason to love this recipe.

• 9×9-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Saucepan or microwave-safe bowl

Ingredients

For the Brownies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Layer

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, homemade or store-bought
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus extra for topping

How to Make Salted Caramel Brownies

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and glossy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
6. Warm the caramel sauce slightly so it’s pourable, then drizzle it evenly over the batter. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
7. Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer and gently spread to cover.
8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
9. Let brownies cool completely before slicing. Finish with extra flaky sea salt just before serving.

Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Brownies

Use room temperature eggs to ensure a smooth, cohesive batter. Warm the caramel slightly so it spreads easily without tearing the brownie layer underneath. For ultra-fudgy brownies, err on the side of slightly underbaking rather than overbaking. Always allow the brownies to cool fully before cutting to get clean, even slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense, tough brownies instead of a fudgy texture. Using cold caramel can cause uneven layers and clumping. Skipping parchment paper makes removing and slicing brownies much harder. Baking too long will dry out the brownies and overpower the caramel’s soft texture.

Variations and Substitutions

For extra indulgence, add chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate to the batter. Swap caramel sauce for dulce de leche for a deeper, milkier flavor. Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. To make them gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free caramel sauce.

How to Store and Meal Prep

Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to one week. These brownies also freeze beautifully. Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly before serving for that fresh-baked feel.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce. For parties, cut them into small squares and sprinkle with flaky sea salt just before serving. They also pair perfectly with coffee, cold brew, or a glass of milk for an easy dessert moment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Yes, you can use a boxed mix as a base and add the caramel and sea salt, but homemade brownies offer a richer, fudgier texture.

What’s the best caramel sauce to use?
Thick caramel sauce works best. Avoid very thin syrups, as they can soak into the batter too much.

How do I know when brownies are done?
The edges should be set, and the center should look slightly soft but not liquid. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely. Use a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time by about 5 to 10 minutes.

Related Post: Easy No-Bake Oreo Balls

These salted caramel brownies are the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers who crave something a little extra. They’re rich, gooey, and perfectly balanced with sweet caramel and flaky sea salt. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe delivers consistent, bakery-style results every time. Once you make them, don’t be surprised if they become your most-requested dessert.