These Fudgy Caramel Brownies are the kind of dessert that stops you in your tracks.
With a crackly top, a gooey center, and chewy pockets of homemade caramel in every bite, they’re the perfect combo of sweet, salty, and indulgent.
Whether you’re baking for a gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe never fails to impress.
Why I Love This Recipe
Homemade caramel that’s easier than you think
Super fudgy brownies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture
Classic flavor pairing of rich chocolate and buttery caramel
Simple ingredients you probably already have
Freezer-friendly – make ahead and enjoy any time
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Unsweetened chocolate – Deep, bold chocolate flavor as the base
Salted butter – Adds richness and balances the sweetness
Sugar – Used in both caramel and brownie batter
Heavy cream – Makes the caramel smooth and velvety
Eggs & flour – Classic binding ingredients for chewy brownies
Vanilla extract – Rounds out all the flavors
A pinch of salt – Essential to enhance both caramel and chocolate
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use high-quality chocolate for the best brownie base
Don’t over-stir the caramel – it just needs to melt and bubble
Cool caramel fully before adding it to the batter
Chill before slicing – helps get clean, beautiful brownie edges
Reserve a few caramel pieces for the top for that drool-worthy finish
How to Make Fudgy Caramel Brownies
Step 1: Prep Your Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a flat plate with parchment paper and spray with nonstick spray.
Do the same for an 8×8-inch square baking pan.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
Place sugar in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
Stir constantly as it clumps and then melts into a smooth amber syrup.
Remove from heat, stir in butter, then cream and salt.
Return to heat and cook until thick and bubbly.
Pour onto your prepared plate and freeze for 20–30 minutes.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
Melt chocolate and butter together (in the microwave or using a double boiler).
Whisk in sugar until smooth.
Then whisk in eggs and vanilla.
Finish by stirring in flour and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Combine Brownies and Caramel
Once the caramel has hardened, cut it into small bite-sized squares.
Fold most of the pieces into the brownie batter, then pour the batter into the baking pan.
Press the remaining caramel bits into the top.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is set and a toothpick comes out fudgy (not wet).
Let cool completely—preferably in the fridge or freezer for clean cuts.
What to Serve It With
A cold glass of milk
Scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
Fresh berries for a fruity contrast
Warm espresso or cappuccino
A drizzle of extra caramel (why not?)
Variations / Substitutions
Add nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans give extra texture
Use dark chocolate for deeper cocoa flavor
Try store-bought caramel if you’re short on time
Sprinkle flaky salt on top for a salted caramel twist
Make it gluten-free by swapping in 1:1 GF flour blend
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week
Freezer – Freeze sliced brownies for up to 2 months
Reheat – Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for gooey perfection
Make ahead – Caramel can be made a day in advance and kept chilled
FAQs
Can I make the caramel in advance?
Yes! Just chill it until you’re ready to use. It will firm up in the fridge or freezer.
Can I use chocolate chips instead of a bar?
Yes, just make sure they’re unsweetened or adjust sugar if using sweetened ones.
What if I overcook the caramel?
It may harden too much. Just reheat gently to soften before cutting.
How do I know the brownies are done?
The edges should be set, and the center slightly gooey with a crackly top.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a 9×13 pan and increase baking time slightly.
Do I have to freeze the caramel?
Freezing makes it easier to cut and fold into the batter without melting.
Can I skip the caramel altogether?
You can, but it adds such a unique chewy-sweet bite that I wouldn’t!
Final Thoughts
hese Fudgy Caramel Brownies are pure comfort in dessert form.
From the rich chocolate base to the buttery pools of caramel, every bite is a blend of texture and flavor that’s hard to beat.
They’re easy enough for a weekday treat and indulgent enough for special occasions. One pan won’t be enough!
