Do you love chocolate desserts? If so, you’re in for a treat! These Salted Caramel Brownie Bites combine rich chocolate with gooey caramel and a sprinkle of salt. They are the perfect mini indulgence for any occasion. In this guide, I’ll walk you through each step, from gathering ingredients to serving tips. Let’s dive into making these irresistible bites that will impress your friends and satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salted caramel sauce
– Flaky sea salt, for topping
Ingredient Notes
Quality chocolate chips are essential for rich flavors. I prefer semi-sweet chips for balance. If you choose to make your own caramel, it can taste fresher. Store-bought caramel saves time but may lack depth.
Substitutions and Alternatives
For a vegan option, use vegan butter. It works well in this recipe. You can also try gluten-free flour. Look for a blend that can substitute one-to-one for all-purpose flour. This way, everyone can enjoy these brownie bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
– Let some parchment hang over the sides for easy removal.
– In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over low heat.
– After melting, stir in 1 1/4 cups of granulated sugar and 1 cup of brown sugar until smooth.
Assembling the Brownies
– Let the mixture cool slightly.
– Whisk in 4 large eggs one at a time.
– Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and mix well.
– In a separate bowl, sift together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
– Gradually fold the dry mix into the wet mix with a spatula until just combined.
– Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
– Spread half of the brownie batter in the pan evenly.
– Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce on top.
– Add the remaining brownie batter over the caramel.
– Place dots of the leftover salted caramel on top.
– Swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Baking Instructions
– Bake for 25-30 minutes.
– Check if a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
– After baking, remove the pan and let the brownies cool for about 10 minutes.
– Lift the brownies out using the parchment overhang.
– Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
– Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brownies for a tasty finish.
For the full recipe, refer to the section above.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To get the perfect texture for your brownie bites, keep these tips in mind:
– Use room temperature ingredients. This helps achieve a smooth batter.
– Melt butter gently. Too much heat can change the butter’s structure.
– Mix just enough. Combine until you see no dry flour. Overmixing leads to tough brownies.
Serving Suggestions
These brownie bites pair well with many drinks. Here are some ideas:
– Coffee or espresso. The bitterness complements the sweetness.
– Milk or milk alternatives. A classic pairing that balances the rich flavors.
– Ice cream. A scoop on top makes for a delightful dessert.
To present them nicely at gatherings:
– Serve on a tiered cake stand. This adds height and style.
– Garnish with fresh berries. They add color and freshness to the plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls for the best results:
– Overbaking can dry out flavors. Keep an eye on the time. Check with a toothpick. It should have some moist crumbs.
– Don’t rush the cooling time. Allow the brownies to cool fully. Cutting them too soon can lead to a mess.
For a complete guide, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Flavor Add-Ins
You can change up the flavor of salted caramel brownie bites in fun ways. Adding nuts gives a nice crunch. Try walnuts or pecans for a rich taste. For a twist, mix in chocolate chips. You can use dark or white chocolate for extra flavor. Seasonal add-ins are also fun! In winter, add peppermint extract for a minty taste. In spring, a bit of orange zest can brighten your bites.
Dietary Variations
If you need gluten-free options, swap regular flour for gluten-free flour. This makes a great treat for everyone. For nut-free bites, skip the nuts entirely. You can also use applesauce instead of eggs for a vegan option. Want a healthier choice? Use less sugar or swap in a sugar alternative. You can even add pureed beans for a protein boost without changing the taste.
Other Formats
If you want to try something different, make salted caramel brownie cupcakes. Just pour the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 20 minutes. You can also create a layered salted caramel brownie cake. Use two batches of the brownie mix and layer them with salted caramel in between. This makes a stunning dessert for any event. For all the details, check the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your salted caramel brownie bites fresh, use an airtight container. This helps stop air and moisture from ruining their taste. Store them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge. Just remember, cold can change the texture a bit.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze brownie bites, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn. For best taste, eat them within three months. When you’re ready to eat, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them in the microwave for a few seconds for a soft bite.
Shelf Life
Salted caramel brownie bites stay fresh for about a week at room temperature. In the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. To maintain that yummy flavor, keep them sealed tight. If they start to dry out, you might lose some of that rich taste. Following these tips will help you enjoy your treats longer. For the full recipe, check the earlier section!
FAQs
How do I know when my salted caramel brownie bites are done?
You can check if your brownie bites are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If it’s wet with batter, they need more time. Brownies can firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they feel soft right out of the oven.
Can I make salted caramel brownie bites without eggs?
Yes, you can make these brownies without eggs. Substitute each egg with a mix of 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about five minutes until it gets thick. You can also use unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas as a binder.
What should I serve with salted caramel brownie bites?
These brownie bites go well with ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a nice creamy texture. You can also pair them with a rich cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
How can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?
To make caramel sauce from scratch, heat 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until it melts and turns golden brown. Remove from heat and carefully add 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1/4 cup of butter. Stir until smooth. Add a pinch of salt for that salted caramel flavor.
Is it possible to make these brownie bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these brownie bites ahead of time. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! You can double the recipe. Just be sure to use a larger pan, like a 9×13-inch one. Keep an eye on the baking time. They might need a few extra minutes in the oven. Check for doneness with a toothpick as mentioned earlier. If you want the full recipe, check out the Full Recipe section!
Full Recipe
A complete recipe guide to make Salted Caramel Brownie Bites. These brownie bites mix sweet chocolate and rich caramel. You will love how easy they are to make!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade salted caramel sauce
– Flaky sea salt, for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper. Leave some overhang for easy removal.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and mix in granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Let the mixture cool a bit. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
4. In another bowl, sift the flour, cocoa powder, and salt together. Fold the dry mix into the wet mix with a spatula until just combined.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips. Make sure they spread evenly throughout the brownie batter.
6. Spread half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over it. Add the rest of the brownie batter on top.
7. Place dots of the remaining salted caramel sauce on the top layer. Swirl it gently with a knife for a marbled look.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs.
9. Take the brownies out of the oven. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out.
10. Let the brownies cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into bite-sized squares.
11. Before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 24 bites
In this blog post, I shared the key ingredients and steps to make delicious salted caramel brownie bites. We discussed the importance of quality ingredients and provided helpful tips and tricks for baking. You learned about variations and how to properly store your treats to maintain freshness.
These brownie bites are an easy, enjoyable dessert for any occasion. With a few tweaks, you can make them just right for your taste. Happy baking!
