If you’re craving a sweet treat, look no further than these Salted Caramel Brownie Bites. They are easy to make and oh-so-delicious. Made with dark chocolate, buttery goodness, and a touch of flaky sea salt, every bite offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience. In this post, I’ll walk you through the simple steps, share tips, and offer fun variations to make these bites your own. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
To make Salted Caramel Brownie Bites, you need a few simple ingredients. Each one adds to the rich flavor and texture of these treats. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Each ingredient plays a key role. The dark chocolate chips give a deep taste. Unsalted butter adds creaminess. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while eggs help bind everything together. Vanilla extract gives a nice aroma. Flour and cocoa powder create the brownie base. Salt enhances the flavors. Caramel sauce brings that sweet, gooey center. Finally, flaky sea salt on top adds a lovely crunch and contrast.
With this list, you’re ready to create something truly delightful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven, helping the brownies bake evenly. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chocolate Mixture
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter. Heat this mixture in the microwave in 30-second intervals. Stir in between until it is fully melted and smooth. This chocolate mixture gives our brownie bites a rich flavor.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure everything mixes well. This step adds sweetness and flavor to our brownies.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of cocoa powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix; we want soft brownie bites.
Assemble the Brownie Bites
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of brownie batter into each muffin cup. Next, add 1 teaspoon of caramel sauce on top of each batter portion. Use a small spoon or squeeze bottle for this. Then, top each caramel-filled brownie with another tablespoon of brownie batter, covering the caramel completely.
Bake and Cool
Bake the brownie bites in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick in the center. It should come out with a few moist crumbs. After baking, let the brownie bites cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
To get the best texture for your brownie bites, pay attention to the mixing. When you combine the dry and wet ingredients, fold gently. Over-mixing can make them tough. You want a soft, fudgy bite. Bake just until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs. This keeps them chewy and rich.
Drizzling Caramel Sauce
For the perfect drizzle, heat your caramel sauce slightly. This makes it thinner and easier to pour. Use a small spoon or squeeze bottle to control the flow. Drizzle it right before serving for a lovely look. The warm sauce adds a nice touch to the bites.
Substitutions for Ingredients
If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas:
- Use coconut oil instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar for deeper flavor.
- Swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version.
These changes can still yield tasty brownie bites while meeting your needs.
Variations
Nutty Addition Options
You can easily add nuts to your Salted Caramel Brownie Bites. Walnuts or pecans work well. Just chop them up and fold them into the batter. This adds a nice crunch. You can use about 1/2 cup of nuts. Try toasting them first for extra flavor. The nuts blend perfectly with the rich chocolate and sweet caramel.
Gluten-Free Version
To make these brownie bites gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend. Both options will keep the bites moist and tasty. Make sure your caramel sauce is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this treat without worry.
Different Flavor Profiles
You can play with flavors in these brownie bites. For a minty twist, add mint extract instead of vanilla. You can also mix in some espresso powder for a coffee flavor. Another option is to use white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate. This gives a sweet and creamy taste. Each variation brings a new spin to the classic brownie bite.
Storage Info
How to Store Brownie Bites
To keep your salted caramel brownie bites fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them soft and moist for a longer time. You can store them at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, the fridge is a great option. Just remember to let them come back to room temperature before serving. This way, they will taste just as good as when they were fresh.
Best Storage Methods
For the best storage, layer the brownie bites in the container. Use parchment paper between the layers to avoid sticking. If you have many bites, consider using a larger container. Make sure to close the lid tightly. This keeps air out and prevents drying. If you like, you can also wrap each bite in plastic wrap. This adds extra protection against air and will keep them fresh longer.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a smart way to save your brownie bites for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature for a few hours. Enjoy your delicious treats anytime!
FAQs
What are Salted Caramel Brownie Bites?
Salted caramel brownie bites are small, rich treats. They combine brownie batter and gooey caramel. Each bite has a sweet and salty flavor. The flaky sea salt on top adds a great crunch. You bake them in a mini muffin tin. They are perfect for sharing or snacking.
Can I use semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can use semi-sweet chocolate. It will change the flavor a bit. Semi-sweet chocolate is sweeter than dark chocolate. This change can make the bites taste less rich. If you like sweeter treats, this option works well.
How long do these brownie bites last?
These brownie bites last about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for the best taste. If you put them in the fridge, they may become firm.
Can I make these brownie bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can make them ahead of time. Bake the brownie bites and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container. You can make them up to 2 days in advance. Just add the extra caramel sauce and flaky salt before serving.
Where can I purchase pre-made Salted Caramel Brownie Bites?
You can find pre-made brownie bites at bakeries or dessert shops. Many grocery stores also sell them. Look in the bakery section for packaged treats. Some online stores offer delivery for gourmet desserts. Check local listings for the best options.
In this blog post, I shared how to make delicious salted caramel brownie bites. We covered each ingredient, from dark chocolate to flaky sea salt. I detailed step-by-step instructions, tips for the perfect texture, and fun variations. Remember to store your bites properly for freshness. These bites are easy to make and fun to customize. Enjoy trying your own flavors! I hope you love making these treats as much as I do.
