Salted Caramel Brownies

These Salted Caramel Brownies are the perfect balance of rich, fudgy chocolate and sweet, gooey caramel with a touch of sea salt to enhance the flavor. They’re decadent and irresistible, making them the perfect treat for any occasion!

Ingredients:

For the Brownies:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for extra fudginess)

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling on top)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brownies

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal of the brownies later.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly.

2. Make the Salted Caramel

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and bring the mixture to a simmer.
2. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Carefully stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the caramel is smooth and thickened.
4. Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.

3. Assemble the Brownies

1. Pour the salted caramel over the brownie batter in the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
2. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel into the brownie batter for a marbled effect.

4. Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the brownies comes out with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter).
2. Let the brownies cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Serve

1. Once the brownies are fully cooled, cut them into squares.
2. Optional: Sprinkle a little extra sea salt over the top for an added salty-sweet kick.

Tips:

• For Extra Caramel Flavor: If you want more caramel in your brownies, double the caramel sauce and pour some on top after baking, then let it set.
• Storage: Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Make Ahead: You can make the salted caramel sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just warm it up before adding to the brownies.

These Salted Caramel Brownies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth with their rich, gooey, and indulgent flavor combination!