Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with these incredibly easy Caramel Brownies, a classic dessert that transforms a simple cake mix into a gooey, rich, and utterly irresistible masterpiece. Requiring just a handful of ingredients, this recipe promises delightful brownies that will capture everyone’s heart at first bite!
If your heart beats for all things caramel, you’ll also adore these effortlessly Microwave Caramels!
There’s something incredibly comforting about a classic, handed-down recipe that stands the test of time. These Caramel Brownies are precisely that kind of gem. Many home bakers likely have a version of this cherished recipe tucked away in their family cookbooks. I distinctly recall my sister baking these regularly many years ago, and their popularity never waned. Such recipes, often simple and straightforward, are typically the ones we return to most often, becoming beloved staples in our culinary repertoire.
This wonderfully easy brownie recipe has been a hidden treasure in my collection since way back in January of 2010. Recently, when the occasion called for a dessert to share at a family dinner, I decided to revisit these caramel delights, alongside a couple of other brownie varieties. While all the desserts were certainly enjoyed, these Caramel Brownies were undeniably the first to disappear from the platter. This unwavering appeal solidifies their status as a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or simply as a special treat for yourself. Their rich, gooey texture combined with the delightful sweetness of caramel and chocolate creates a truly unforgettable experience that keeps people coming back for more. It’s a testament to the power of a truly simple, yet perfectly executed, dessert.
What makes these brownies so special is their incredible ease of preparation, leveraging the convenience of a boxed cake mix without sacrificing that decadent, homemade taste. This recipe demystifies the art of brownie making, proving that you don’t need extensive culinary skills or a pantry full of exotic ingredients to create something truly spectacular. The minimal ingredient list and straightforward steps make this an ideal recipe for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or even for aspiring young bakers looking to create something delicious. Imagine the joy of serving a batch of warm, soft, and chewy brownies, each bite bursting with layers of rich chocolate and luscious caramel – all achieved with surprising simplicity.
Beyond their delightful flavor and effortless preparation, these Caramel Brownies offer a nostalgic charm. They evoke memories of childhood kitchens, family gatherings, and the simple pleasure of a homemade dessert shared with loved ones. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create new memories and savor the sweetness of tradition. So, if you’re searching for a dessert that’s both uncomplicated to make and utterly satisfying to eat, look no further. These brownies are a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest recipes yield the most profound joy.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Caramel Brownies
Crafting these delectable Caramel Brownies requires only a few core ingredients, many of which you likely already have on hand. Let’s delve into what you’ll need and why each component is crucial for achieving that signature gooey texture and rich flavor:
- Cake Mix: The foundation of our incredibly easy brownies! Over the years, cake mix box sizes have varied, so it’s important to note this recipe has been retested with a 15.25 oz cake mix as of April 2024. Brands like Pillsbury and Duncan Hines typically offer this size. If you happen to be using a smaller 13.25 oz Betty Crocker mix, simply incorporate an additional 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour into your brownie mixture to maintain the perfect consistency. While I personally love the depth of flavor a German Chocolate cake mix provides for these brownies, enhancing the chocolate-caramel pairing, feel free to experiment with any chocolate cake mix you prefer, such as Devil’s Food or Fudge cake mix.
- Evaporated Milk: This ingredient plays a dual role in our recipe, contributing to both the brownie layers and the luscious caramel topping. It’s crucial to use evaporated milk, not sweetened condensed milk, as the latter is significantly thicker and sweeter and will alter the texture and taste dramatically. Evaporated milk provides the necessary moisture for the brownie batter and helps create a smooth, pourable caramel sauce.
- Butter: For baking, I generally recommend using unsalted butter. This allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dessert. If you only have salted butter available, you can still use it; just be mindful of any additional salt you might add elsewhere in the recipe. Melted butter is key for achieving the fudgy texture of the brownie base.
- Eggs: Large eggs are my standard for this recipe, acting as a binder and contributing to the brownies’ structure and richness. Ensure they are at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
- Caramels: For consistency and a classic caramel flavor, I stick to Kraft caramel squares. Like cake mixes, the bag sizes have changed over time. I typically find them in 10-ounce bags, so I suggest picking up two bags to ensure you have enough for the rich caramel layer, with a few extra for snacking! Remember to unwrap them all before melting to save time and effort.
- Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chocolate chips are my preference here, offering a balanced chocolate flavor that complements the intense sweetness of the caramel without overwhelming it. Dark chocolate chips would also be a fantastic option for those who enjoy a richer, less sweet profile. However, I advise against using milk chocolate chips, as these brownies are already quite sweet, and milk chocolate might make them overly sugary.
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards creating a batch of homemade Caramel Brownies that will impress everyone with their ease and undeniable deliciousness.
How to Bake Irresistible Caramel Brownies
Creating these delightful Caramel Brownies is a straightforward process, resulting in a multi-layered treat that looks and tastes incredibly impressive. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect gooey, chewy, and chocolatey caramel brownies every time:
STEP 1: Prepare Your Brownie Batter. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and preparing a 9×13-inch baking dish. You can either lightly grease it with cooking spray or, for easier removal and cleaner cuts, line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chocolate cake mix, 1/2 cup of evaporated milk, melted butter, and eggs. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until just combined. You don’t even need a stand mixer; a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon will work perfectly to achieve a thick, uniform batter.
STEP 2: Bake the First Brownie Layer. Divide your brownie batter. Take approximately two-thirds of the prepared batter and spread it evenly across the bottom of your greased or parchment-lined baking pan. This batter will be quite thick and sticky, so don’t be afraid to use a spatula lightly coated with nonstick cooking spray or even your clean, wet fingers to gently press it into an even layer. This ensures a consistent base for your caramel. Bake this bottom layer in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes. This partial bake provides a stable foundation for the caramel layer that will be added next.
STEP 3: Prepare the Luscious Caramel Layer. While the first brownie layer is baking, you’ll prepare your decadent caramel filling. In a small saucepan, combine the unwrapped caramels with the remaining 1/3 cup of evaporated milk. This mixture will create a rich, flowing caramel that perfectly complements the chocolate brownie.
STEP 4: Melt to Silky Perfection. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring continuously. It’s important to stir constantly to prevent the caramels from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning. Continue cooking and stirring until all the caramels have completely melted and the mixture is smooth and velvety. This should only take a few minutes. Once smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat.
STEP 5: Layer on the Caramel. Once the bottom brownie layer is partially baked, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Pour the warm, melted caramel mixture evenly over the hot brownie layer. Use your spatula to gently spread the caramel into a smooth, even layer from edge to edge. Work quickly but carefully, as the caramel will begin to set as it cools.
STEP 6: Sprinkle with Chocolate Chips. Generously sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips directly over the caramel layer. The warmth of the caramel will slightly melt the chocolate chips, helping them adhere and create another delightful chocolatey dimension to your brownies.
STEP 7: Add the Final Brownie Layer. Retrieve the remaining one-third of your brownie batter. Instead of trying to spread it (which would disturb the caramel layer), drop spoonfuls of the batter evenly over the chocolate chip-covered caramel. It won’t form a perfectly smooth layer, but try to distribute it as much as possible to ensure the top is mostly covered. This method creates a beautiful, rustic top crust as it bakes.
STEP 8: Final Bake and Cooling. Return the baking dish to the oven. Continue to bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the top brownie layer is set and a toothpick inserted into the brownie (avoiding the gooey caramel layer) comes out with moist crumbs. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential for clean cuts and for the caramel to fully set, ensuring those perfect, gooey squares. Resist the urge to cut into them too early!
Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Brownies
Achieving bakery-worthy Caramel Brownies is simpler than you think with these helpful tips and tricks:
- Mastering the Thick Brownie Batter: The brownie batter for these caramel delights is intentionally thick and can be a bit challenging to spread, especially when pressing it into the bottom of a well-greased pan. A fantastic trick is to spray your spatula with nonstick cooking spray before you begin to spread the batter. The nonstick coating will prevent the sticky batter from clinging, allowing you to press it into a perfectly even layer with ease. Alternatively, you can lightly dampen your fingers or spray them with cooking spray and press the batter into the pan by hand – a surprisingly effective method!
- Optimal Storage for Freshness: While these brownies are undeniably delicious at room temperature, I find they truly shine when stored in the refrigerator. Chilling helps the caramel layer firm up slightly, creating a more defined and delightfully chewy texture. Plus, for me, there’s a certain guilty pleasure in sneaking cold bites of these rich caramel brownies straight from the fridge! If you prefer them at room temperature, store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer freshness, the refrigerator is your best friend.
- Freezing for Future Cravings: Yes, you can absolutely freeze these brownies to enjoy later! This is a great way to portion them out or have a decadent treat ready for an unexpected craving. To freeze, first allow the brownies to cool completely and cut them into individual squares. Wrap each brownie tightly in plastic wrap, then place the individually wrapped brownies into a freezer-safe, airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for an hour or two, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey experience.
- The Importance of Cooling: Patience is key when it comes to cutting perfect brownie squares. Allow your Caramel Brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to slice them. If you try to cut them while warm, the caramel will be very soft and gooey, making a messy cut. Cooling allows all the layers to set properly, resulting in neat, clean edges and that irresistible chewiness.
More Irresistible Brownie Recipes to Explore
If these Caramel Brownies have sparked your love for all things fudgy and delicious, you’re in luck! There’s a whole world of brownie variations waiting to be discovered. Expand your baking horizons with some of these other fantastic brownie recipes from my collection:
- Pressure Cooker Fudgy Brownies: For those who love speed and a perfectly fudgy result every time.
- Mega Mallow Coconut Brownies: A tropical twist with chewy marshmallows and shredded coconut for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Biscoff Brownies: Indulge in the spiced, cookie-butter goodness swirled into a rich brownie base.
- Double Malt Brownies: A unique take that brings a nostalgic malted milk flavor to your chocolate brownies.
- Rocky Road Brownies: A classic combination of marshmallows, nuts, and chocolate chips for a textural delight.
Each of these recipes offers a distinct flavor profile and texture, proving that the humble brownie can be transformed into endless possibilities. Whether you’re craving something simple, something with a twist, or a truly extravagant treat, there’s a brownie recipe out there for every occasion and every palate.
Recommended Tools for Baking Caramel Brownies
Having the right tools can make your baking experience even more enjoyable and efficient. For these Caramel Brownies, a few key items will ensure your success:
- Quality Baking Dish: A sturdy 9×13-inch baking dish is essential. I prefer using a cake pan with straight sides and sharp corners, as this helps create perfectly defined, even brownie squares once cooled.
- Reliable Caramels: For consistent results and that classic caramel flavor, I highly recommend Kraft caramels. They melt beautifully and provide the ideal gooey texture for the middle layer.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: While not a specialized tool, a good quality spatula or wooden spoon is perfect for mixing the thick brownie batter and gently spreading the caramel layer.
- Saucepan: A small saucepan is needed to melt the caramels and evaporated milk into a smooth, pourable sauce.
- Parchment Paper: For easy lifting and clean cuts, lining your baking dish with parchment paper is a game-changer.
These simple tools, combined with quality ingredients, will set you up for success in making batch after batch of these beloved Caramel Brownies.
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Caramel Brownies
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 15.25 oz German chocolate cake mix (see notes)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup butter melted
Caramel Layer:
- 16 ounces caramels unwrapped
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine the cake mix, 1/2 cup evaporated milk, butter, and eggs and mix well until just combined. Press two-thirds of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. The batter is thick and sticky, so you may need to gently press it in evenly with a spatula sprayed with cooking spray or with wet hands.
- Bake this bottom layer for 8 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Meanwhile, melt the unwrapped caramels with the 1/3 cup evaporated milk in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Gently pour and spread the caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked brownie layer. Sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining brownie batter over the chocolate chip and caramel layer, trying to cover as much area as possible.
- Return the dish to the oven and continue to bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top brownie layer is set.
- Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. This ensures clean cuts and a perfectly set caramel layer.
Recipe Notes:
Nutrition information is provided as an estimate only. Nutritional values can vary significantly based on brands and specific products used. This information should be considered a general guideline.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 314kcal (16%),
Carbohydrates: 46g (15%),
Protein: 3g (6%),
Fat: 14g (22%),
Saturated Fat: 9g (56%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 4g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 34mg (11%),
Sodium: 257mg (11%),
Fiber: 1g (4%),
Sugar: 34g (38%)