Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!)

If you’re on the hunt for a quick and scrumptious dessert that will wow your friends and family, look no further! These Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!) are a delightful combination of rich chocolate brownie goodness and luscious caramel, all achieved with minimal effort. Using a simple box of German chocolate cake mix as the base, these brownies are an absolute game-changer for busy bakers or anyone craving a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie, the gooey caramel melting in your mouth, and the slight crunch of pecans adding a delightful texture. This recipe is not just easy; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of these Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!) lies in the simplicity of using a cake mix, which acts as the perfect base for a dense and chewy brownie. The addition of chewy caramel candies creates a luscious layer of sweetness that balances the rich chocolate flavor beautifully. This recipe also allows for customization; you can add nuts for texture or leave them out for a pure chocolate experience. Plus, using evaporated milk ensures that the brownies remain moist and fudgy, making them a delightful treat any time of the year.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 1 (15.25-ounce) box German chocolate cake mix: This is the cornerstone of your brownies, providing both flavor and structure.
• 14 ounces of soft or chewy caramel candies, unwrapped: These will create the gooey caramel layer that makes these brownies special.
• 1 cup evaporated milk, divided: This keeps the brownies moist and adds creaminess to the caramel layer.
• ½ cup melted salted butter: The butter gives the brownies a rich flavor and enhances their fudginess.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps to stabilize the brownie mixture.
• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adding chocolate chips intensifies the chocolate flavor and creates a luscious texture.
• ½ cup chopped pecans (optional): For those who love a nutty crunch, pecans provide the perfect contrast to the soft brownie.

What’s in the Gear List

• Mixing bowl: For combining your ingredients.
• 9×13-inch baking pan: Perfect for baking your brownies evenly.
• Spatula: To spread the brownie mixture smoothly in the pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurement.
• Microwave-safe bowl: For melting the butter and caramel.

Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!), Made Easy

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, melted salted butter, ½ cup of evaporated milk, and all-purpose flour. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick and fudgy.

Step 4: Spread the Batter

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramel candies and the remaining ½ cup of evaporated milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is melted and smooth.

Step 6: Add the Caramel

Pour the melted caramel over the layer of brownie batter in the pan, spreading it gently with a spatula.

Step 7: Top with More Brownie Batter

Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer. It doesn’t have to cover the caramel completely; it will spread as it bakes.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Chocolate Chips and Pecans

Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans (if using) over the top. This adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness and a delightful crunch.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as you want these brownies to remain fudgy.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before cutting into squares. Enjoy the delightful layers of chocolate and caramel with every bite!

Smart Substitutions

• Butter: You can use unsalted butter if preferred, but consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
• Caramel candies: If you can’t find soft caramel candies, you can use caramel sauce instead, but adjust the amount of evaporated milk accordingly.
• Chocolate chips: Substitute with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Pecans: Swap with walnuts or leave them out entirely for nut-free brownies.

Slip-Ups to Skip

• Don’t overmix the brownie batter; this can lead to a denser texture.
• Watch the baking time closely; underbaking is better than overbaking for fudgy brownies.
• Allow the brownies to cool before cutting, which helps them set properly.
• Don’t skip greasing or lining the pan to avoid sticking.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

These Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the brownies into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy them cold!

Reader Questions

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While German chocolate cake mix gives a rich flavor, you can experiment with any chocolate or even vanilla cake mix for a different twist on the brownies.

How do I know when the brownies are done baking?

The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out clean, they may be overbaked.

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake these brownies a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delicious the next day.

What’s the best way to cut brownies?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts. You can also chill the brownies in the fridge for an hour before cutting, which helps them hold their shape better.

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• Sally’s Baking Addiction for more decadent dessert recipes.
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• Minimalist Baker for simple, plant-based recipes.
• Bakerella for creative baking inspiration.

In Closing

The journey of baking these Easy Caramel Brownies (Made with Cake Mix!) is as enjoyable as the delightful treat itself. With a handful of simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dessert that looks impressive and tastes even better. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these brownies will surely become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor every chocolatey, caramel-y bite!