How to Create a Decadent Salted Caramel Brownie with Homemade Ganache
Do you have a sweet tooth and find yourself daydreaming about indulgent desserts? Then this recipe might be just what you need! Salted caramel brownies topped with a rich homemade ganache combine gooey caramel, velvety chocolate, and a hint of salt for a truly luxurious treat. In this blog post, I’ll guide you step-by-step to make this mouthwatering dessert right in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dessert
Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie layered with sweet caramel, sprinkled with a touch of salt, and finished with a smooth chocolate ganache. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolaty. Whether it’s for a dinner party, a celebration, or just your personal indulgence, this brownie will have everyone swooning.
What You’ll Need
Let’s start by getting your ingredients ready! This recipe has three components—the brownie base, the salted caramel layer, and the ganache topping. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Brownie Base:
- 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup (90g) all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (60g) cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
For the Homemade Ganache:
- 200g semi-sweet chocolate (chopped or in chips)
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
- Optional: Extra sea salt for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make your decadent dessert.
Step 1: Make the Brownie Base
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the dry ingredients: Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Use a spatula or fork to gently fold these into the wet mixture until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out slightly gooey (you don’t want it too dry). Let the brownies cool completely in the pan.
Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel
- Start with sugar: In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar melts into a smooth, amber-colored liquid.
- Add butter: Carefully stir in the butter (it will bubble up, so be cautious). Keep stirring until the butter is fully melted and mixed in.
- Pour in cream: Gradually add the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Let the mixture simmer for about a minute until it thickens slightly.
- Add salt: Turn off the heat and stir in the sea salt. Let the caramel cool for 10-15 minutes.
- Spread on the brownies: Once the brownies are cool, pour the salted caramel over the surface, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Step 3: Make the Ganache
- Heat the cream: In a small saucepan, warm the heavy cream over low heat until it’s hot but not boiling.
- Melt the chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir the mixture until the chocolate melts completely and forms a silky ganache.
- Spread the ganache: Pour the ganache over the salted caramel layer and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Chill: Place the brownies in the fridge for about an hour to allow the ganache to set fully.
Step 4: Final Touch
Once your brownies are chilled and set, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the ganache for a gourmet finish. Use a sharp knife to cut them into squares—be sure to wipe the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Tips for Success
- Use good-quality chocolate for the ganache; it makes a big difference in flavor.
- Don’t rush the caramel process—it’s important to stir constantly and manage the heat.
- If you want a chewier brownie texture, slightly underbake them—remember, they’ll continue to cook a little as they cool.
Conclusion
Salted caramel brownies with homemade ganache are the perfect way to treat yourself and your loved ones. With layers of chocolate and caramel, their rich flavor will make them a crowd favorite. Although they take a little time to prepare, the results are well worth the effort.
The next time you’re craving something indulgent or need a show-stopping dessert, try this delicious recipe. Each bite is packed with unforgettable flavor, and you just might find yourself making them again and again!
So, grab your apron and get ready to bake a treat that’s both decadent and delightful. Your taste buds—and anyone lucky enough to share with—will thank you!
