There’s something magical about the irresistible combination of sweet and salty that makes my heart race. My journey into the world of baking reached new heights when I discovered these Sea Salt Caramel Brownies. With their fudgy texture and luscious layers of gooey caramel topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, they cater perfectly to those chocolate cravings while also impressing friends and family. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its rich, complex flavors but also in how surprisingly simple it is to create an indulgent dessert right in your kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these brownies are sure to steal the show. Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this delightful treat!
Why Are These Brownies So Special?
Decadent Sea Salt Caramel Brownies redefine dessert with their perfect harmony of flavors. Luscious layers of gooey caramel paired with a touch of sea salt create a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Exceedingly easy to whip up, this recipe is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike—ideal for those tired of fast food options! Impress your guests at gatherings or treat yourself on a quiet evening; these brownies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. For extra indulgence, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly luxurious experience!
Sea Salt Caramel Brownies Ingredients
For the Sea Salt Caramel
• ⅔ cup heavy cream – Adds richness to the caramel; can substitute with milk for a lighter version.
• ¼ vanilla bean – Infuses caramel with deep flavor; use 1 teaspoon vanilla extract as an alternative.
• 1¼ cup granulated sugar – Primary sweetener for caramel; no direct substitute without altering texture.
• ¼ cup water – Helps dissolve sugar; no substitutions.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors; use sea salt for better taste.
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup – Prevents crystallization of sugar; can substitute with glucose syrup.
• ¾ teaspoon fresh lemon juice – Balances sweetness in caramel.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds creaminess and gloss; use salted butter for a richer taste.
For the Topping
• 1 recipe sea salt caramel – Base for topping; follow caramel instructions above.
• 16 oz mascarpone – Provides a creamy texture; cream cheese can be used as an alternative.
• 2 cups heavy cream (480 ml) – Adds volume and lightness; dairy-free cream can be substituted.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g) – Sweetens the cream; coconut sugar is a possible substitute.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons vanilla bean paste – Adds flavor complexity; use vanilla extract as an alternative.
For the Brownies
• 1 cup salted butter (227 g) – Creates a rich base; unsalted butter is an option; adjust salt accordingly.
• 14 ounces 70% bittersweet chocolate – Adds deep chocolate flavor; dark chocolate can vary the sweetness.
• ½ cup unsweetened Dutch cocoa powder (60 g) – Enhances chocolate intensity; no direct substitute without altering flavor.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 g) – Provides structure; can use gluten-free flour blend.
• 5 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can use flax eggs for a vegan option.
• 1 cup packed dark brown sugar (140 g) – Adds moisture and depth of flavor; light brown sugar is a good substitute.
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g) – Sweetens the brownies; can reduce for less sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor balance; use less if using salted butter.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Adds flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sea Salt Caramel Brownies
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel
In a medium pot, combine 1¼ cups of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of water, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then cook without stirring for 5–8 minutes until the mixture turns an amber color. Meanwhile, heat ⅔ cup of heavy cream with ¼ vanilla bean in another saucepan until warm. Carefully add the cream to the hot caramel while whisking, then stir in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and smooth.
Step 2: Bake the Brownies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of salted butter and 14 ounces of 70% bittersweet chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. In a bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1 cup packed dark brown sugar, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until thick and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture, followed by 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour the brownie batter into a prepared 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25 minutes until slightly cracked and soft to the touch.
Step 3: Make the Cream Topping
In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of mascarpone and 2 cups of heavy cream until just combined. Gradually add in ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of vanilla bean paste. Continue to beat until soft peaks form gently, ensuring not to overmix. Fold in the prepared sea salt caramel, setting aside a small portion for drizzling later. Be gentle to maintain the lightness of the cream.
Step 4: Assemble the Brownies
Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the caramel cream evenly over the top using a spatula. Drizzle the reserved sea salt caramel over the cream for a beautiful finish. Place the assembled brownies in the refrigerator to chill for 1-2 hours, allowing the layers to set beautifully. This will enhance the flavors and make cutting and serving easier, turning your sea salt caramel brownies into a show-stopping dessert.
What to Serve with Sea Salt Caramel Brownies
Indulging in these decadent brownies is a treat on its own, but pairing them with complementary delights can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, melting beautifully against the warm brownies.
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Fresh Berries: Sweet and tart berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the richness. Their vibrant color also adds a visual appeal.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the brownies enhances the chocolate experience and adds an extra layer of indulgence. Just make sure it’s smooth and glossy!
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Espresso or Coffee: A steaming cup of espresso or a strong coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweetness and richness of the brownies, creating a perfect balance.
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Whipped Cream: Light, airy whipped cream brings a delightful cloud-like texture to each bite, making the rich brownies feel just a touch lighter.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: For a true caramel lover’s delight, serve extra salted caramel on the side for dipping or drizzling, intensifying the flavor experience.
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Nutty Brownie Sundae: Transform your brownies into a sundae by layering with ice cream and sprinkling crushed nuts for an exciting crunch!
With these delicious pairings, your sea salt caramel brownies are sure to shine even brighter on any dessert spread!
Expert Tips for Sea Salt Caramel Brownies
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Perfect Caramel: Avoid stirring: Once the caramel starts to cook, resist the urge to stir. Agitating the mixture can cause it to crystallize, ruining that silky texture.
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Cooling is Key: Ensure complete cooling: If you don’t let the brownies cool completely before adding the cream topping, it may melt into a gooey mess.
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Gentle Folding: Maintain airiness: When folding the caramel into the cream mixture, do so gently to keep it light and airy—this enhances the overall fudgy texture of your brownies.
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Choose Quality Chocolate: Better flavor: Use high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best flavor payoff. It’s the heart of your sea salt caramel brownies!
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Chill for Perfection: Set for success: Refrigerating the assembled brownies allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes slicing easier—making for a stunning presentation every time.
Sea Salt Caramel Brownies Variations
Feel free to personalize these Sea Salt Caramel Brownies and make them your own with delightful tweaks that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Chocolate Swap: Use milk or white chocolate instead of bittersweet for a sweeter, creamier treat that balances beautifully with the salt.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in walnuts or pecans to the brownie batter for a lovely crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey texture.
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Flavored Caramel: Infuse the caramel with espresso or a splash of bourbon for an exciting twist that adds depth and intrigue to every bite.
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Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, allowing everyone to indulge without worry while still enjoying that fudgy goodness.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Replace dairy components with coconut cream and dairy-free chocolate for a spirited, allergen-friendly dessert that’s just as satisfying.
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Seasonal Spice: Add pumpkin spice or a hint of cinnamon to the brownie batter during fall; it not only warms the heart but fills your kitchen with cozy aromas.
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Reduced Sweetness: Cut back on the sugars by half for a less sweet brownie that allows the chocolate and caramel flavors to shine more prominently.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel for a delightful contrast that enhances the sweet and salty notes.
Whatever variation you choose, remember that baking is all about expressing your creativity—enjoy the delicious journey! And if you’re looking for more sweet inspiration, check out my post on Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies or give my flavorful Classic Cheesecake a try!
Make Ahead Options
These Sea Salt Caramel Brownies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the sea salt caramel up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its silky texture. The brownie mixture can also be made a day ahead and kept covered in the fridge; when ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before pouring into the baking dish. The creamy topping can be prepared up to 3 days ahead. Just remember to refrigerate it tightly covered, and fold in the reserved caramel just before serving for that fresh taste. Enjoy the luxury of indulging in these decadent brownies with minimal day-of effort!
How to Store and Freeze Sea Salt Caramel Brownies
Fridge: Store brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and maintains their fudgy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual brownies in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To savor that gooey goodness, warm brownies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving. This enhances the rich flavors of the sea salt caramel.
Sea Salt Caramel Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate should I use for the brownies?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality 70% bittersweet chocolate for a rich flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel. Dark chocolate gives a deep taste, while milk chocolate will result in sweeter brownies. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try white chocolate for a unique twist!
How can I tell when my caramel is ready?
Very important! The caramel is ready when it reaches an amber color, which typically takes about 5 to 8 minutes of cooking without stirring. To be precise, use a candy thermometer; it should reach around 350°F (175°C) for perfect consistency. Just be careful not to burn it—keep an eye on it!
How do I store my sea salt caramel brownies?
Store your brownies wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This maintains their fudgy texture and freshness. If you plan to keep them longer, I often freeze them!
Can I freeze the sea salt caramel brownies?
Absolutely! You can freeze individual brownies wrapped in foil or placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds!
Are these brownies suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! To make them gluten-free, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap the butter and heavy cream for vegan alternatives like coconut oil and plant-based milk. However, please be cautious with allergies, especially concerning eggs and dairy for those with intolerances.
Why did my brownies turn out cakey instead of fudgy?
Very frustrating! This can happen if you overmix the batter or bake them for too long. Make sure to mix just until combined to keep that dreamy fudgy texture. Ideally, they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out—let them cool completely for that rich, gooey texture!
Indulge in Irresistible Sea Salt Caramel Brownies Today
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, combine 1¼ cups of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of water, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then cook without stirring for 5–8 minutes until the mixture turns an amber color. Meanwhile, heat ⅔ cup of heavy cream with ¼ vanilla bean in another saucepan until warm. Carefully add the cream to the hot caramel while whisking, then stir in 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until melted and smooth.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of salted butter and 14 ounces of 70% bittersweet chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. In a bowl, whisk together 5 large eggs, 1 cup packed dark brown sugar, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract until thick and creamy. Stir in the melted chocolate mixture, followed by 1 cup of all-purpose flour and ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder. Pour the brownie batter into a prepared 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 25 minutes until slightly cracked and soft to the touch.
- In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of mascarpone and 2 cups of heavy cream until just combined. Gradually add in ¼ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2 tablespoons of vanilla bean paste. Continue to beat until soft peaks form gently, ensuring not to overmix. Fold in the prepared sea salt caramel, setting aside a small portion for drizzling later.
- Once the brownies are completely cooled, spread the caramel cream evenly over the top using a spatula. Drizzle the reserved sea salt caramel over the cream for a beautiful finish. Place the assembled brownies in the refrigerator to chill for 1-2 hours, allowing the layers to set beautifully.
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