Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe

If you have a serious sweet tooth, this Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe is going to become your absolute favorite treat to bake and share. Every bite is a luscious mix of rich chocolate, gooey caramel swirls, and melty chocolate chunks that create an irresistible texture and flavor harmony. These brownies bring together simple, honest ingredients that transform into a delightfully fudgy, chewy dessert with just the right balance of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, these brownies are the perfect crowd-pleaser you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe lies in its straightforward yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the buttery richness to the deep cocoa flavor, complemented by the caramel’s sticky sweetness and those generous chocolate chunks.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Provides a rich base and moist texture without overwhelming saltiness.
• Sugar (2 cups): Balances bitterness from the cocoa, giving that sweet, satisfying bite.
• Large eggs (4): Help bind everything together and contribute to the chewiness we love.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Gives structure while keeping the brownies tender.
• Cocoa powder (1 cup): Delivers intense chocolate flavor and beautiful dark color.
• Salt (1/2 tsp): Amplifies the sweetness and balances the richness perfectly.
• Chocolate chunks (1 cup): Melt into pockets of creamy chocolate joy throughout the brownies.
• Caramel sauce (1 cup): Adds sticky, buttery lusciousness that takes these brownies over the top.
• Sea salt flakes (optional): A little sprinkle on top enhances the caramel’s sweetness and adds a delightful crunch.

How to Make Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup. Getting your setup just right ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out perfectly fudgy every time.

Step 2: Mix Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar until the mixture is smooth and glossy. This step creates the sweet, buttery foundation and helps the sugar dissolve for a luscious texture later in the bake.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Stir in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until everything is fully combined and silky. The eggs add richness and structure while vanilla lifts all the flavors to another level.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, then gently fold them into the wet mixture. Mix just enough to combine; overmixing can lead to tough brownies, so keep it light for that tender, fudgy crumb.

Step 5: Fold In Chocolate Chunks

Gently fold the chocolate chunks into the batter, distributing those little pockets of melty chocolate throughout for delightful gooey bites.

Step 6: Layer Batter and Caramel

Spread half of the batter evenly in your lined pan. Then drizzle half of the caramel sauce over this layer. This layering creates wonderful ribbons of caramel in the finished brownie.

Step 7: Add Remaining Batter and Smooth

Top with the remaining batter and use a spatula to smooth the surface, ensuring an even bake and beautiful final presentation.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake your brownies for 25 to 30 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs. This ensures brownies are cooked through but still fudgy inside.

Step 9: Add Sea Salt Flakes (Optional)

Once out of the oven, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top if you want to elevate the flavor contrast and add a slight crunch to every bite.

Step 10: Cool Before Slicing

Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into generous squares. Cooling helps the caramel set and makes the brownies easier to cut.

How to Serve Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant touch, serve with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of extra caramel sauce, or even a few extra chocolate chunks on top. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add lovely textures and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

These brownies pair amazingly well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience. A warm cup of coffee or your favorite black tea balances their sweetness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try layering these brownies in a trifle with whipped cream and berries for a fancy dessert, or cut them into small bites and serve on a dessert platter alongside fruit and nuts for parties. They also make fantastic gifts when wrapped in pretty parchment and tied with twine.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their fudgy texture and keeps the chocolate chunks melty and delicious.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the brownies tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy your brownies warm, briefly microwave a square for about 15 to 20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at low heat. The caramel will become wonderfully gooey again, making each bite heavenly.

FAQs

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chocolate chunks?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips will work just as well, but chunks tend to melt into bigger pockets of chocolate, giving you a slightly different texture and appearance.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While you can, it’s best to stick to unsalted butter so you have full control over the salt content in the recipe. Using salted butter may make the brownies slightly saltier than intended.

Can I substitute the caramel sauce with something else?

The caramel sauce is a key player in this recipe’s flavor and texture, but you could try dulce de leche or a thick honey drizzle for a creative twist. Keep in mind the taste profile will change.

How do I know when the brownies are perfectly baked?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter. The edges will start to pull away slightly from the pan.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way caramel and chocolate work together in this Caramel Chocolate Chunk Brownies Recipe. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll want to make again and again, whether for celebrations, gifts, or just because. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these indulgent brownies as much as I do — they really bring joy to every occasion.

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