Indulgent Homemade Caramel Brownie Chocolate Bars

Indulging in Delectable Caramel Brownie Chocolate Bars

There is nothing more satisfying than biting into a rich, fudgy brownie that is filled with sweet, gooey caramel. Caramel brownie chocolate bars take this dessert to the next level, swapping out ordinary brownies for a decadent chocolate bar experience. As the chocolate melts in your mouth, it gives way to the smooth, buttery caramel inside that provides the perfect amount of sweetness to contrast with the bittersweet chocolate. These homemade candy bars are easy to make and fun to customize with different chocolates, caramels, and toppings. Read on to learn how to create these amazing caramel brownie chocolate bars at home.

Choosing the Chocolate

When making caramel brownie chocolate bars, the first step is to choose a high-quality chocolate that will pair well with the caramel filling. Opt for a bittersweet or semisweet chocolate that is around 60-70% cocoa solids. This darker chocolate provides a nice balance and won't be overwhelmed by the sweetness of the caramel. Milk chocolate is too sweet and may make the bars one-note. Stay away from chocolate chips which are formulated to hold their shape and won't provide the right melt-in-your-mouth texture.

You can use chocolate bars, wafers or pistoles. Make sure to chop the chocolate finely so it will melt smoothly. The best way to chop chocolate is to use a serrated knife and "shave" pieces off the bar. This will help the chocolate melt evenly when you make the brownie layer.

Caramel Options

The caramel layer is what makes these chocolate bars really stand out. You can use store-bought caramel candies or make your own for extra flavor. Homemade caramel is easy to customize with touches like sea salt, nuts, spices and liqueurs. Cook the caramel to 245 F on a candy thermometer for the right consistency to fill the chocolate bar. Allow it to cool and thicken slightly before using.

For store-bought caramels, look for individually wrapped candies. Unwrap them and cut each caramel in half to make about 40 smaller pieces to place in the brownie bars. Soft caramel candies will work better than hard, wrapped caramels which can be difficult to bite through.

Creating Rich Brownie Base

A fudgy brownie base helps support the caramel layer and provides chocolate flavor in every bite. The brownie can be made from scratch or with a brownie mix to simplify preparation. For homemade brownies, use melted butter and chocolate combined with sugar and eggs. Stir in some brownie mix to make them extra decadent. Spread the brownie batter into a parchment lined pan.

Bake the brownies just until set around the edges but still underbaked in the center. They will finish baking once the chocolate bar layers are assembled. Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting into squares and adding the caramel.

Assembling the Chocolate Bars

Once the brownie base is made, you are ready to assemble the chocolate bars. Melt the chopped chocolate gently until smooth. Pour a layer over the brownie base and spread evenly with an offset spatula. Allow it to set at room temperature or in the fridge.

Next, place a piece of caramel in the center of each brownie square. Top with another layer of melted chocolate to cover the caramel completely. Return to the fridge briefly to set.

Melt an additional layer of chocolate and pour over the topped bars. This helps seal in the caramel and provides more chocolate flavor. Smooth the top with a spatula. Allow the assembled chocolate bars to set in the refrigerator before cutting and serving.

Customizing with Toppings

The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings and mix-ins for caramel brownie chocolate bars. Crushed cookies, nuts, flaky sea salt, crushed candy bars and drizzles of caramel or chocolate take them over the top. Get creative with fun decorations like chocolate shavings, candy sprinkles or crushed pretzels on top.

Swirl in peanut butter or nutella between the layers for a unique twist. You can even replace the brownie layer with cookie dough or cake for more texture and flavor combinations. The finished chocolate bars make great gifts wrapped in foil or cellophane treat bags tied with ribbon.

Tips for Making Perfect Caramel Brownie Bars

Follow these helpful tips for success when making caramel brownie chocolate bars at home:

• Allow ingredients to come to room temperature so the chocolate layers spread smoothly.
• Use an offset spatula to spread the chocolate in even layers.
• Refrigerate the assembled bars to help the layers set up.
• Cut the brownies while cold for cleaner slices, wiping the knife between cuts.
• Store in the refrigerator to keep the caramel from oozing out over time.
• Wrap individual bars or the whole pan in plastic wrap for gifting.

With high quality ingredients and careful assembly, you will be rewarded with incredible caramel brownie chocolate bars that look and taste professional. Feel free to customize them to suit your tastes by adding your favorite flavors and toppings. Just be prepared for requests to make them again and again once people get a taste!

FAQs

How long do homemade caramel brownie bars last?

The caramel brownie chocolate bars will last 5-7 days stored in the refrigerator. Make sure they are completely cooled before refrigerating. Wrap individual bars or store the whole pan in plastic wrap or an airtight container.

Can I make caramel brownie bars without brownies?

You can certainly assemble the chocolate-caramel bars without a brownie base. Simply pour the melted chocolate into a parchment lined pan and top with caramel pieces and another layer of chocolate. However, the brownie layer provides moisture and a fudgy contrast to the caramel.

What kind of caramel should I use?

Look for soft caramel candies either homemade or individually wrapped from the store. Hard, unwrapped caramels are difficult to bite into. Softer caramels make it easier to chew the bars.

Can I make the bars without chocolate?

You could technically make caramel brownie bars with just a brownie base and caramel topping. However, the chocolate layers provide delicious flavor contrast and help seal in the caramel so it doesn't ooze out.

How do I cut neat slices of the cooled bars?

Refrigerate the assembled bars until completely firm and cold. Use a sharp, heavy knife wiping it clean between each slice. Run the knife under hot water and dry off for the smoothest, cleanest cuts.