Cookie Dough Caramel Brownies: A Decadent Treat You Can’t Resist

If you love brownies, cookie dough, and caramel, then get ready to meet your ultimate

dessert crush: Cookie Dough Caramel Brownies. These decadent treats combine a rich, fudgy chocolate base, a gooey caramel swirl, and a soft, buttery cookie dough topping for a multi-layered indulgence that is as fun to make as it is to eat. Perfect for dessert tables, special occasions, or an indulgent weekend treat, these brownies are guaranteed to wow friends and family.

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Ingredients

Brownie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cocoa powder
• 0.5 tsp baking powder
• 0.25 tsp salt

Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, to thin)

Cookie Dough Topping:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 cup chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make Brownie Base:
   In a large mixing bowl, melt butter and mix with granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet ingredients until a smooth, thick batter forms.
4. Spread Brownie Batter:
   Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading evenly.
5. Add Caramel Layer:
   Gently drizzle caramel sauce over the brownie batter. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the caramel, creating a marbled effect.
6. Prepare Cookie Dough Topping:
   In a bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually fold in flour, then stir in milk and chocolate chips until dough forms.
7. Top Brownies with Cookie Dough:
   Evenly drop spoonfuls of cookie dough over the caramel swirl. Using a spatula, gently spread to cover as much surface as possible. Do not press too hard; small peaks create a rustic look.
8. Bake:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the cookie dough topping is lightly golden and the brownie base is set.
9. Cool Completely:
   Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step ensures clean slices and keeps the layers intact.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
    Cut into squares and serve immediately. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

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Tips for the Perfect Cookie Dough Caramel Brownies

• Use High-Quality Chocolate: A rich cocoa powder and chocolate chips make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature to blend smoothly.
• Prevent Overbaking: The cookie dough topping should remain soft; slight underbaking gives the best texture.
• Swirl with Care: When swirling caramel into the brownie batter, use gentle movements to avoid mixing it completely.

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Variations You Can Try

1. Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the brownie layer for extra crunch.
2. Peanut Butter Swirl: Swap caramel with peanut butter for a chocolate-peanut butter combination.
3. Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel before baking for a sweet-salty hit.
4. Mini Brownie Bites: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized indulgences, perfect for parties.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.
• Drizzle additional caramel sauce and top with whipped cream for an over-the-top treat.
• Serve with hot coffee or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness.

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Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Brownies are an iconic American dessert that dates back to the early 1900s. The combination of chocolate and cookie dough has gained viral popularity in recent years, thanks to social media trends highlighting multi-layered, decadent desserts. Caramel, originally derived from burnt sugar, adds a luscious sweetness that complements the deep chocolate flavor, making this recipe a modern twist on a classic treat.

Indulging in Cookie Dough Caramel Brownies is not just about taste—it’s an experience. The fudgy brownie base, gooey caramel, and soft cookie dough topping create a symphony of textures that make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself, this recipe promises a sweet escape from the everyday.