Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie

Description:

This decadent dessert features a fudgy, rich brownie base layered with luscious gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Baked into a pie form, it’s perfect for sharing and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth craving!

Origin:

Brownie pies are a beloved American dessert variation, combining the dense texture of brownies with the ease of a pie. The addition of caramel adds a luscious, buttery sweetness inspired by classic caramel treats.

Ingredients (Serves 8–10):

🍫 Brownie Base:

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder

🍮 Caramel Layer:

1 cup (230g) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Sea salt flakes, for sprinkling

🍫 Optional Toppings:

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving

Optional Ingredients:

1/2 cup chocolate chips (mixed into brownie batter)
1 teaspoon espresso powder (enhances chocolate flavor)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm note)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brownie Batter:

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or line with parchment paper.
Melt butter in a saucepan or microwave. Stir in sugar until combined.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet until just combined.
Stir in optional chocolate chips or espresso powder if using.

2. Assemble the Pie:

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pie dish and spread evenly.
Spoon caramel sauce evenly over the batter layer.
Carefully dollop and spread the remaining brownie batter on top, covering the caramel layer (don’t fully mix).
Sprinkle chopped nuts on top if desired.

3. Bake:

Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie layer (not caramel) comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
Remove from oven and sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top immediately.

4. Cool and Serve:

Let cool completely in the pan to set the gooey caramel layer.
Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Success:

Do not overbake; the gooey center depends on slightly undercooked brownie.
Use good quality caramel sauce for best flavor or make homemade caramel.
Sprinkle sea salt right after baking to enhance the caramel’s sweetness.

Recommendations:

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream for a classic combo.
Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheat gently before serving to soften caramel.