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Salted Caramel Stuffed Brownies

Ultra-fudgy, dark chocolate brownies stuffed with a thick layer of gooey caramel, topped with crunchy pretzels, milk chocolate drizzle, and flaky sea salt.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 16 brownies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 395

Ingredients
  

Brownie Batter
  • 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
  • 8 oz dark chocolate 60-70% cacao, chopped
  • 1.25 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup light brown sugar packed
  • 4 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
Caramel Filling & Toppings
  • 11 oz soft baking caramels unwrapped
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup crushed pretzels or cookies
  • 0.25 cup milk chocolate melted, for drizzling
  • 1 pinch flaky sea salt like Maldon

Equipment

  • 8x8 or 9x9 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Microwave-safe bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a square baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Melt butter and chopped dark chocolate together in the microwave until smooth. Let cool slightly.
  3. Beat eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium-high speed for 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy.
  4. Fold the melted chocolate mixture and vanilla into the egg mixture until combined.
  5. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently until no dry streaks remain.
  6. Melt the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream in the microwave until smooth and pourable.
  7. Pour exactly half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
  8. Pour the melted caramel over the bottom layer of batter, leaving a small border around the edges.
  9. Dollop the remaining brownie batter over the caramel and spread carefully to cover. Top with crushed pretzels.
  10. Bake for 35-45 minutes. Remove and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  11. Cool at room temperature for 2 hours, then chill in the fridge for 1 hour to set before slicing with a hot knife. Drizzle with melted milk chocolate before serving.

Notes

Chilling the brownies is mandatory for clean slices, otherwise the caramel center will run out. Store leftovers in an airtight container.