Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition) Recipe
If you are ready to embark on a decadent adventure of flavors, these Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition) will be your new obsession. Imagine ultra-fudgy chocolate brownies with a deep, rich dark chocolate profile, perfectly balanced by luscious ribbons of homemade salted caramel weaving through every bite. A glossy top with a satisfying crack, a chewy yet molten texture, and just the right hint of sea salt make these brownies nothing short of legendary. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, this dessert brings an irresistible contrast of sweet and salty, soft and dense, dark and golden that makes every moment feel like a celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients, each playing a vital role in delivering the rich complexity and texture of these brownies. From the intensity of 70% dark chocolate to the smoothness of vegan butter and the depth added by espresso powder, these components come together in perfect harmony.
- 200 g dark chocolate (70%): Provides deep, bittersweet intensity that makes the brownies truly dark and indulgent.
- ¾ cup vegan butter: Adds creaminess and richness while keeping the texture fudgy and moist.
- 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the batter just right, balancing the bitterness of the dark chocolate and espresso.
- ¾ cup flour: Gives the brownies their structure while keeping them tender and chewy.
- ¼ cup cocoa powder: Boosts chocolate flavor and dark color perfectly.
- 1 tsp espresso powder: Enhances the chocolate’s depth without overpowering the flavor.
- 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flax + 4 tbsp water): The perfect vegan binder to keep everything together and moist.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the chocolate and caramel notes.
- ½ cup sugar (for caramel): The base for a rich, golden caramel that isn’t too sweet.
- 2 tbsp coconut cream: Brings smoothness and subtle coconut undertones to the caramel.
- 1 tbsp vegan butter (caramel): Gives the caramel a luscious, glossy finish and mild savoriness.
- A pinch of flaky salt: The magic touch that cuts through the sweetness and accentuates the flavors beautifully.
How to Make Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition)
Step 1: Melt Chocolate and Butter
Start by gently melting together the dark chocolate and vegan butter, either in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or carefully in short bursts in the microwave. Stir frequently until completely smooth and glossy. This luscious base is what gives your brownies that award-worthy fudginess.
Step 2: Whisk in Sugar and Vanilla
Once melted, immediately whisk in the sugar and vanilla extract while the mixture is still warm. This helps the sugar partially dissolve, creating a silky, cohesive batter. The vanilla adds a fragrant warmth that enhances the chocolate’s natural flavor.
Step 3: Add Flax Eggs, Cocoa Powder, and Flour
Next, mix in your flax eggs—made by combining ground flaxseed and water—as a vegan substitute that keeps the texture moist without heaviness. Stir in the cocoa powder and flour until the batter is thick, glossy, and just combined. It should feel rich and slightly stretchy, poised perfectly between molten and cakey.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel
In a small saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat without stirring until it turns to a smooth amber caramel. Remove the pan from the heat and carefully whisk in the coconut cream and vegan butter until velvety and thickened. This homemade caramel is the heart of the Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition), adding buttery richness and those signature salty-sweet notes.
Step 5: Layer and Swirl
Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Pour half of the brownie batter into the pan, then spoon in generous dollops of the salted caramel. Top with the remaining brownie batter and use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel evenly through the chocolate. This marbled effect creates visual intrigue and pockets of molten caramel magic in every square.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Bake your masterpiece in a preheated oven at 175°C for 25 to 30 minutes. The brownies should have a glossy, crackly top while the inside remains fudgy and moist. Let them cool slightly, then sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top to amplify the sweet-salty contrast and give the brownies their finishing touch.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition)
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your serving game. A quick sprinkle of more flaky sea salt on top right before serving intensifies flavor. For extra drama, a drizzle of warm caramel or melted dark chocolate looks stunning. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can also introduce a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition) pair beautifully with creamy accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream adds a delightful temperature contrast and creamy balance. Freshly whipped coconut cream or a drizzle of espresso enhances the indulgence, while a handful of toasted nuts on the side provides satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with presentation by serving these brownies in rustic wooden boards for that cozy, homey feel or elegant glass trays to showcase their caramel swirls. You can cut them into bite-sized cubes for party platters or serve warm with espresso shot and a small spoon to savor every molten bite. Adding edible gold flakes or a dusting of powdered sugar can turn these treats into special occasion showstoppers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you don’t finish these brownies in one sitting (which is unlikely), store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the brownies moist and fudgy while preserving the subtle caramel pockets. Avoid refrigeration if possible to maintain the perfect texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual brownie squares tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw at room temperature or gently warm them in the oven to revive that molten feel and gooey caramel.
Reheating
Reheat brownies by placing them on a microwave-safe plate and warming in short bursts of 15 seconds, checking often to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, use a low oven heat (around 150°C) for 8 to 10 minutes to soften and refresh that luscious texture, as if they were just baked.
FAQs
Can I use regular eggs instead of flax eggs?
Absolutely! If you’re not vegan, you can replace the flax eggs with two regular eggs. This substitution will still give you the fudgy, moist texture expected in Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition).
What is the best chocolate to use?
Use high-quality 70% dark chocolate; it provides the perfect bittersweet flavor that balances the caramel sweetness. Avoid using chocolates with added flavors or low cocoa content to get the richest taste.
How do I make sure the caramel doesn’t harden inside the brownies?
The use of coconut cream and vegan butter in the caramel helps keep it soft and luscious when baked inside the brownies. Swirling it into the batter right before baking and baking at the suggested temperature also contributes to the perfect molten caramel pockets.
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup for cup. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to maintain the chewy texture.
Why do you add espresso powder?
Espresso powder enhances the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee. It deepens the richness, rounding out the dark chocolate notes and making the overall flavor more complex and intense.
Final Thoughts
Once you taste these Salted Caramel Brownies (Dark Edition), you’ll understand why they’re a beloved indulgence. The luxurious combo of molten dark chocolate with silky salted caramel creates a dessert experience that’s both comforting and luxurious. Whether for an everyday treat or a special occasion, these brownies promise to fill any room with joy and delicious aroma. Don’t wait to make these your new favorite; once you do, there’s no going back!
