If you have a sweet tooth and love the decadent combination of rich chocolate and luscious caramel, this Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a buttery pie crust hugging layers of fudgy brownie batter and gooey caramel, baked to perfection with a crackly, melt-in-your-mouth top. This dessert is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or whenever you need a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s a game changer in any dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating an unforgettable Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe relies on a handful of essential, easy-to-find ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the table. From the luscious melted butter that ensures moistness, to the cocoa powder that delivers deep chocolate flavor, every component works together to build layers of texture and taste that will keep everyone coming back for more.
- 1 pre-made pie shell or pie dough: A quick foundation that saves time while adding a buttery, flaky crust to your pie.
- 11 ounces caramel bits or candies (e.g., Kraft baking caramels): These melt into a rich, creamy caramel layer, delivering sticky sweetness you’ll adore.
- 1/4 cup heavy cream: Helps create a smooth, luscious caramel sauce that’s perfectly spreadable.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the brownie batter for the perfect fudgy texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping achieve that crackly brownie surface.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor and extra chewiness to the brownies.
- 2 eggs: Bind everything together and create that nice brownie structure.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Provides the right balance of density and softness in the brownie layers.
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers intense chocolate flavor without overpowering the caramel.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, fragrant note that rounds out the flavors.
How to Make Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re working from scratch with pie dough, now is the time to roll it out and place it snugly in your pie pan, creating the perfect base for this luscious dessert.
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir thoroughly. Continue heating in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. Pop it into the refrigerator for 5 minutes to cool slightly, which helps it layer nicely without bleeding into the batter.
Step 3: Mix the Sugars and Butter
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer for about a minute. You want this mixture to become well blended and slightly fluffy; this is the base of that fudgy, rich brownie flavor.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until everything is thoroughly incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl to ensure an even batter.
Step 5: Incorporate the Flour
Stir in the all-purpose flour just until combined. Be careful not to overmix here, since the goal is to keep the batter tender and fudgy, not cakey or tough.
Step 6: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the brownie batter evenly over the pie crust. Then pour the slightly cooled caramel over the top, reserving a few tablespoons for later garnish. Finally, spoon the remaining brownie batter over the caramel, gently spreading it with a spatula. It’s okay if the layers blend a bit—this gives the pie beautiful swirls and pockets of gooey caramel.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pop the pie into your preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s done. Let it cool completely before decorating to allow the layers to set perfectly.
Step 8: Add the Final Touch
Drizzle the reserved caramel over the cooled pie for that irresistible glossy finish. For an extra pop, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top—it elevates the caramel’s sweetness and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this pie with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of chopped nuts like pecans creates a lovely textural contrast. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which pairs beautifully with the warm chocolate and caramel flavors.
Side Dishes
For a festive dessert spread, offer fresh berries or a small fruit salad alongside the pie to provide a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness. A cup of robust coffee or dark roasted espresso also complements the intense chocolate and caramel notes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on decorative dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce swirled artistically. For celebrations, add edible gold leaf for a touch of elegance or sprinkle chopped toasted coconut to add an unexpected tropical twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once baked and fully cooled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this pie later, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap followed by foil to protect against freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw the pie overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Warm leftover slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to revive the gooey caramel and soft brownie layers. If reheating a whole pie, cover loosely with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel bits?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel can add a personalized touch and flavor, just be sure it’s not too runny. Let it cool until thick enough to layer nicely without sinking through the batter.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the pie after baking?
Yes, storing the Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe in the fridge helps the caramel layers set properly and keeps the pie fresh. It also makes slicing easier and prevents the caramel from getting too sticky at room temperature.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend in equal amounts. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine beautifully.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. This ensures the brownie layers are cooked through but still fudgy and moist.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the brownie batter?
Definitely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a wonderful crunch, while chocolate chips or chunks can amp up the chocolate experience. Just fold them into the batter before assembling the pie layers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s equal parts comforting and decadent, this Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe is your ticket to happiness. It’s simple to make, incredibly rich, and perfectly balanced with chocolate and caramel goodness. Trust me, once you bake this, it will quickly become a beloved staple for celebrations and cozy nights alike. Go ahead, bake it today and prepare for endless compliments!
Print
Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This irresistible Caramel Brownie Pie combines a rich and fudgy brownie batter with gooey caramel layers nestled inside a buttery pie crust. The decadent dessert offers a perfect balance of chocolate and caramel flavors, topped with an extra drizzle of caramel and a touch of salt to enhance the sweetness. Ideal for indulging at gatherings or a special treat, this pie promises a delightful, crowd-pleasing dessert experience.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 pre-made pie shell or pie dough
Caramel Layer
- 11 ounces caramel bits or candies (e.g., Kraft baking caramels)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Brownie Batter
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Prepare Pie Crust: If using pie dough, roll it out and place it into your pie pan, ensuring it fits well along the bottom and edges.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave for 60 seconds, stir, then continue heating in 30-second intervals, stirring after each until the caramel is fully melted. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Mix Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to blend the melted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar for about 1 minute until combined.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well and scrape down the bowl sides to ensure even mixing.
- Incorporate Flour: Add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined. Scrape down the bowl again to fully incorporate the flour.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly over the prepared pie crust.
- Add Caramel Layer: Reserve a few tablespoons of the melted caramel for topping. Pour the remaining caramel evenly over the brownie batter in the pie shell.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Spoon the remaining brownie batter gently over the caramel layer as evenly as possible.
- Smooth Top Layer: Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to carefully spread the top layer, covering the caramel. It’s okay if the layers mix slightly at this point.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the pie to cool completely. Drizzle the reserved caramel over the top and optionally sprinkle with a pinch of salt to enhance flavor before serving.
Notes
- Use a toothpick test to check for doneness; a clean toothpick means the pie is ready.
- Letting the caramel cool before layering helps prevent it from melting the brownie batter too much.
- For a homemade touch, you can use your favorite pie dough recipe instead of pre-made crust.
- Sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on top before serving adds a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for best freshness.
