Double Chocolate Caramel Fudge Brownies with Pecans
Rich, decadent brownies featuring layers of chocolate brownie base, smooth caramel filling, and chocolate drizzle topped with crunchy pecans. These indulgent treats combine multiple textures and intense chocolate flavor, making them perfect for special occasions, potluck desserts, or when you want to impress guests. The caramel layer adds gooey sweetness while the chocolate chunks provide bursts of rich cocoa throughout each bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Heat oven to 350°F and grease 13x9-inch pan
- 2
Cook caramels and milk over low heat until melted and smooth, stirring frequently
- 3
Melt butter over low heat in medium saucepan, then remove from heat
- 4
Stir in sugar, vanilla and eggs into melted butter
- 5
Stir in flour, cocoa and salt until well blended
- 6
Stir in chocolate chunks and pecans into batter
- 7
Spoon and spread batter in prepared pan
- 8
Drizzle caramel filling evenly over batter to prevent large pockets
- 9
Bake 35 to 40 minutes or until set
- 10
Melt remaining chocolate chunks with oil over low heat until smooth
- 11
Drizzle melted chocolate over warm brownies
- 12
Sprinkle with remaining pecans and press in lightly
- 13
Cool 20 minutes, then refrigerate 1 hour 30 minutes until chocolate sets
Tips
Distribute caramel evenly to prevent large pockets that can make cutting difficult and ensure consistent texture throughout.
Press pecans lightly into chocolate drizzle while warm to ensure they adhere properly to the surface.
Let refrigerated brownies sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving for easier cutting and better texture.
Good to Know
Store covered at room temperature up to 3 days or refrigerate up to 1 week
Can be made 2 days ahead, store refrigerated and bring to room temperature before serving
Cut into squares, serve at room temperature for best texture
Common Mistakes
Let caramel cool slightly before drizzling to avoid melting the brownie base
Don't overbake or brownies will become dry and lose fudgy texture
Cut with clean knife between cuts to prevent caramel from sticking and creating messy squares
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Vegan Options
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought caramels?
Yes, use about 1 1/2 cups homemade caramel sauce. Make sure it's thick enough to not sink completely into the brownie batter.
What if my caramel is too thick to drizzle?
Add a tablespoon of evaporated milk or cream and reheat gently until it reaches drizzling consistency.
How long will these brownies keep in the refrigerator?
They'll stay fresh for up to one week when stored covered. Let them come to room temperature for best serving texture.