If you’re after a show-stopping dessert that combines all the gooey richness of brownies with the indulgent sweetness of caramel, you absolutely have to try Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie. This irresistible pie features a fudgy chocolate brownie filling, ribbons of melted caramel, and a buttery pie crust that holds it all together in perfect harmony. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures—from crisp edges to silky caramel and chewy brownie center. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or a cozy night in, Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie promises a soul-satisfying experience that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, familiar ingredients, but each one serves a special purpose in building the ultimate Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie. From rich butter to melty chocolate chips, every component layers on flavor and texture—nothing is there by accident!
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, melted): Using melted butter gives the brownies an extra fudgy texture and a rich foundation.
- Granulated sugar (2 cups): Sweetens the brownies and adds that beautiful crackly top you’ll crave in every slice.
- Large eggs (4): These bind everything together and give the pie its signature structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 tablespoon): Infuses the brownies with warm, aromatic notes that uplift the whole dessert.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): The base dry ingredient, bringing structure without sacrificing chewiness.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1 cup): For deep, chocolatey intensity—don’t skimp on quality if you can help it!
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Lends just enough lift to keep the texture dense but not heavy.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances and balances the sweetness, making the chocolate and caramel flavors pop.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips (1½ cups): Pockets of melty chocolate in every bite—absolute bliss.
- Soft caramel candies (1 bag, 11 ounces): The secret to rich caramel ribbons, these bring the “decadent” to Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie.
- Heavy cream (3 tablespoons): Ensures the caramel melts smoothly for perfect drizzling and swirling.
- Pre-made 9-inch pie crust: Whether you go with graham cracker or a classic pastry, this handy shortcut saves time and holds everything together.
- Flaky sea salt (optional): A sprinkle elevates every bite, contrasting so beautifully with the caramel and chocolate.
How to Make Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
First things first: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your pre-made 9-inch pie crust—graham cracker or pastry, your call—and press it gently into a pie dish. Smooth out any cracks or uneven edges so you’ve got a sturdy base ready to hold all that brownie and caramel goodness.
Step 2: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture turns glossy and smooth. Next, add your eggs and vanilla extract, whisking until the batter is thick, creamy, and everything is beautifully combined. This is where the fudge factor starts building!
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures the cocoa gets evenly distributed through the flour, eliminating dry patches for a perfectly uniform chocolate flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Add Chocolate Chips
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix—the goal is a thick, luscious batter. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips right at the end for that irresistible melty surprise in every bite.
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your soft caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring well after each, until the caramel is fabulously smooth and pourable. This is your golden ticket to a pie that truly earns the name Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie!
Step 6: Layer and Swirl
Scoop half of the brownie batter into your prepared crust and spread it into an even layer. Drizzle half of the melted caramel over the top, letting it seep into the batter a bit. Carefully spread the remaining brownie batter over that, then finish with the rest of the caramel. Grab a knife and gently swirl the caramel into the surface—aim for pretty ribbons, but don’t overdo it or you’ll lose those gorgeous pockets of caramel.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is just set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking will rob you of that gooey center, so keep an eye on it. Let cool for at least an hour—patience pays off! For super-clean slices, chill the pie for 30 minutes after cooling.
How to Serve Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie
Garnishes
Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the classic finishing touch. For an extra flourish, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top right before serving pulls out the best in both the caramel and chocolate. Shaved chocolate or a handful of fresh berries can also make your Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Though the pie is certainly the star, a few simple accompaniments round out the dessert table. Fresh fruit or berry compote balances the richness, while a dollop of lightly whipped cream keeps every bite light and dreamy. Coffee or cold milk pair perfectly and refresh the palate between forkfuls.
Creative Ways to Present
Mini pies in ramekins make for adorable individual servings, ideal for dinner parties or special celebrations. You can also serve chilled slices with a drizzle of homemade chocolate or caramel sauce, or stack small squares as brownie pie bars for a fun alternative. No matter your style, every version of Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie dazzles and delights!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, store it in the fridge, where it’ll stay moist, rich, and ready to enjoy for up to five days (though it rarely lasts that long!).
Freezing
To freeze, let the pie cool completely, then wrap slices in a double layer of plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie freezes beautifully for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or let sit at room temperature for about an hour before serving.
Reheating
If you love your pie warm and gooey, just pop individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds until the caramel clings and the chocolate turns melty again. Or slide the whole (unsliced) pie into a 300°F oven, covered loosely with foil, for 10 to 15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade caramel sauce, swap it in for the melted candies. Just use an amount equal to the finished caramel mixture and be sure to aim for a similar thick-but-pourable consistency.
What type Dessert
Both graham cracker and traditional pastry crusts work beautifully, so choose whichever you prefer. Graham cracker adds a bit of crunch and a hint of saltiness, while traditional pastry crust keeps things classic and buttery.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free 1:1 all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Double-check that your caramel candies and pie crust are gluten-free to keep the whole pie safe for anyone with gluten sensitivities.
How should I store Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie for maximum freshness?
Once it has cooled, wrap the pie tightly or keep it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for about five days. Just be sure not to leave it uncovered, as that can dry it out.
Is it possible to make Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie ahead of time for a party?
Yes, and it’s a great make-ahead dessert! Bake the pie a day or two in advance, let it cool completely, and chill in the fridge. Before serving, bring to room temperature or reheat slightly to recapture that gooey, indulgent texture.
Final Thoughts
This Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie is one of those desserts you’ll want to make again and again—rich, fudgy, and overflowing with luscious caramel. Whether you serve it at a holiday table or for a weeknight treat, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears. Go ahead and give it a try for yourself—your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will beg for the recipe!
Print
Decadent Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Caramel Brownie Pie, a delicious twist on a classic dessert. A fudgy brownie base is topped with gooey caramel and baked to perfection in a flaky pie crust.
Ingredients
Brownie Layer:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Caramel Layer:
- 1 (11-ounce) bag soft caramel candies
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
Additional:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (graham cracker or traditional pastry)
- Flaky sea salt for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and press the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Mix Brownie Batter: Whisk butter and sugar, add eggs and vanilla. In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients and combine with wet ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips.
- Prepare Caramel: Melt caramel candies with heavy cream in intervals, then layer half of the brownie batter, caramel, remaining batter, and caramel again in the pie crust.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes until set. Let cool before slicing and serve warm with optional sea salt.
Notes
- This pie is best enjoyed slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- For easier slicing, refrigerate the pie for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 42g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
