Ina Garten’s Salted Caramel Brownies combine rich, fudgy chocolate with gooey salted caramel for a decadent dessert that’s impossible to resist. These indulgent brownies are perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving a treat that’s both sweet and salty.

What are Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies?

Ina Garten’s Salted Caramel Brownies stand out because of their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The brownies are dense, moist, and intensely chocolatey, while the salted caramel adds a gooey, slightly salty contrast that elevates the entire experience. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet approachable, just like Ina’s cooking style.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Decadent and rich: Fudgy brownies with gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Perfectly balanced flavors: Combines sweet, salty, and chocolatey goodness.
Great for gatherings: A crowd-pleasing dessert for parties or holidays.
Simple ingredients: Easy to make with pantry staples.
Indulgent treat: A luxurious dessert that feels like it came from a bakery.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

For the Brownies:

1/2 pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter
8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
3 ounces unsweetened chocolate, chopped
3 large eggs
1 1/2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Salted Caramel:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons water
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Step 1: Prepare the Brownie Batter

Melt the chocolate and butter: In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the butter, semisweet chocolate chips, and unsweetened chocolate, stirring until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, espresso powder, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until thick and smooth.
Add the chocolate mixture: Stir the melted chocolate into the wet ingredients until well combined.
Mix the dry ingredients: Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then fold them into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 2: Prepare the Salted Caramel

Melt the sugar: In a small saucepan, heat the granulated sugar and water over medium heat, swirling the pan (do not stir) until the sugar is melted and turns amber in color.
Add cream and butter: Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream and butter. Stir until smooth, then mix in the flaky sea salt. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Brownies

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
Pour the batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Add caramel: Drizzle the salted caramel over the batter, leaving some for topping.
Layer the rest of the batter: Spread the remaining brownie batter on top, gently smoothing it out.

Step 4: Bake the Brownies

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Add extra caramel: Drizzle the reserved salted caramel over the brownies and sprinkle with more flaky sea salt, if desired.
Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy.

Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies recipe

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Serve with ice cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs perfectly.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce: Add even more decadence with a chocolate drizzle.
Include fresh berries: A side of raspberries or strawberries adds a refreshing contrast.
Pair with coffee: A hot cup of coffee or espresso complements the rich flavors.
Enjoy with whipped cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy touch.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Use high-quality chocolate: The best brownies come from using good-quality chocolate and cocoa.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the brownies fudgy.
Cool completely before slicing: This helps the caramel set and ensures neat slices.
Watch the caramel closely: Sugar can burn quickly, so keep an eye on the caramel while it cooks.
Store at room temperature: Keep the brownies in an airtight container to maintain their texture.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Add nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
Use dark chocolate: Swap semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Try a mocha twist: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie batter for a coffee-infused treat.
Top with marshmallows: Sprinkle mini marshmallows on top for a gooey finish.
Make it gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Salted Caramel Brownies

Store at room temperature: Keep the brownies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freeze for later: Wrap individual brownies in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for salted caramel brownies?

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can be used as a substitute for homemade caramel. Just make sure to select a high-quality caramel sauce and mix in flaky sea salt for the salted caramel flavor.

How do I make salted caramel brownies fudgier?

To make the brownies fudgier, avoid overbaking. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out with a few moist crumbs. Additionally, use a higher ratio of butter and chocolate in the batter.

Can I make salted caramel brownies ahead of time?

Yes, salted caramel brownies can be made a day or two ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for longer storage.

What is the best way to drizzle caramel on brownies?

To drizzle caramel neatly, use a spoon or transfer the caramel to a piping bag or resealable plastic bag with a small corner snipped off. Drizzle in a zigzag pattern for even coverage.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Salted Caramel Brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining fudgy chocolate and gooey caramel with a touch of sea salt for balance.

Give them a try and enjoy a bakery-quality dessert right at home!

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