These Caramel Chocolate Chip Brownies are the ultimate indulgence for dessert lovers. Fudgy, rich chocolate brownies are studded with gooey caramel and melty chocolate chips, creating the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re making them for a party, a holiday, or just to satisfy a serious sweet tooth, these brownies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These brownies combine the best of both worlds: the intense flavor of dark chocolate and the irresistible richness of caramel. Each bite delivers a chewy, chocolatey texture with the smoothness of melted caramel and a pleasant crunch from the chocolate chips. This recipe is easy to follow, doesn’t require any fancy tools, and can be made with simple pantry staples.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Baking powder
Salt
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
Soft caramels or caramel squares
Heavy cream

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Remove from heat and stir in both sugars until smooth.
Whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Pour half the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramels with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
Pour the caramel over the brownie batter and gently spread.
Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and carefully spread it to cover the caramel.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Let cool completely before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 16 brownies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt on the caramel layer for a sweet and salty twist.
Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch.
Double Chocolate: Use a mix of milk and dark chocolate chips for deeper flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Espresso Kick: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter to enhance the chocolate flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave individual brownies for about 10–15 seconds to restore their gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I keep the caramel from sinking to the bottom?

Layering the caramel between two layers of batter helps keep it in the center where it belongs.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels?

Yes, but ensure it’s a thick sauce so it doesn’t make the brownies soggy.

What’s the best type of chocolate chips to use?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips balance the richness of the brownie and caramel best, but feel free to use milk or dark.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter, dairy-free chocolate chips, and coconut milk in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free version.

Why are my brownies too gooey in the middle?

They may need a few extra minutes in the oven. Also, let them cool completely before cutting to allow them to set.

Should I use a glass or metal baking pan?

Metal pans conduct heat more evenly and result in better texture, while glass may require a longer bake time.

Can I add toppings before baking?

Yes, sprinkle extra chocolate chips or a light drizzle of caramel over the top layer of batter before baking.

How do I cut brownies cleanly?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices for neat edges.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! These brownies taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel?

You can use milk or a splash of half-and-half, but the caramel may be slightly thinner.

Conclusion

Caramel Chocolate Chip Brownies are the perfect fusion of fudgy chocolate and buttery caramel, making them a treat you’ll crave again and again. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dessert, these brownies are a surefire crowd-pleaser. Give them a try—you’ll be hooked from the first bite!