Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites
If you’re on the lookout for a decadent dessert that packs a punch of flavor and an irresistible gooey center, then look no further than these Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites. Imagine sinking your teeth into rich, fudgy chocolate with a warm, melting caramel surprise hidden inside. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these brownie bites take your typical dessert experience to the next level. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s bound to impress!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– **Gooey Caramel Center:** Each bite reveals a luscious Rolo candy that melts into a delightful caramel experience.
– **Rich Chocolate Flavor:** The use of dark chocolate offers a depth of flavor that’s both sophisticated and satisfying.
– **Easy to Make:** With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up in no time.
– **Perfect for Sharing:** Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for parties or as a special treat.
Ingredient Rundown
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture to the brownies.
- 6 ounces dark or bittersweet chocolate, chopped: I used Trader Joe’s 72% Pound Plus Bar for a deep chocolate flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the brownies perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon brewed coffee: Optional but recommended; it intensifies the chocolate flavor.
- 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules: Optional but gives a rich depth to the chocolate.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the brownies.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
- 24 unwrapped Rolo candies: The star of the show for that gooey caramel center.
- Whipped topping (optional): Such as RediWhip for a creamy garnish.
- Chocolate sprinkles (optional): For that extra festive touch.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Whisk: To ensure everything is well incorporated.
- 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for these brownie bites.
- Spoon or cookie scoop: For portioning out the brownie batter.
- Parchment paper: To line your baking pan for easy removal.
Mastering Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites: How-To
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your brownies bake evenly and come out deliciously fudgy.
Step 2: Melt the Butter and Chocolate
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the unsalted butter and chopped dark chocolate. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, brewed coffee (if using), and instant espresso granules (if using). Add the cooled chocolate mixture to this bowl and mix until well combined.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper to ensure your brownies don’t stick.
Step 6: Fill the Pan
Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Place 24 unwrapped Rolo candies evenly across the batter. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top, gently spreading it to cover the Rolos.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake; you want that fudgy texture!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into bite-sized pieces.
Variations by Season
- Fall: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Winter: Substitute Rolos with peppermint-filled chocolates for a minty twist.
- Spring: Top with fresh berries for a refreshing contrast to the rich brownies.
- Summer: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful sundae.
Insider Tips
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, try using a higher percentage of dark chocolate.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add chopped nuts to the brownie batter for some added texture.
- Make sure not to overbake the brownies; they should be soft in the middle for that gooey center.
- Let the brownies cool completely before cutting to avoid messy pieces.
Storing, Freezing & Reheating
Store any leftover Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the brownies into squares, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to warm them up again.
Questions People Ask
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can! Milk chocolate will give a sweeter flavor, but it will still be delicious. Just keep in mind that the overall taste will be different.
What if I can’t find Rolo candies?
If Rolos are not available, any soft caramel candy can be used as a substitute. Just make sure they melt well!
Can I make these brownies gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
How do I know when the brownies are done baking?
The edges should be set, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it’s completely clean, they may be overbaked.
Desserts to Finish
Next Steps
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites, it’s time to share your creation with friends and family! Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a cozy night in, these brownie bites are sure to impress. Feel free to get creative with toppings or variations, and don’t forget to capture those ooey-gooey moments on camera. Happy baking!
Caramel Stuffed Brownie Bites
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the unsalted butter and chopped dark chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, brewed coffee (if using), and instant espresso granules (if using). Add the cooled chocolate mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour and salt until just combined. A few lumps are fine.
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper.
- Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Place 24 unwrapped Rolo candies evenly across the batter, then pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it to cover the Rolos.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges look set and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment paper. Let cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bite-sized pieces.
Notes
- For deeper chocolate flavor, use higher percentage dark chocolate.
- Add chopped nuts for texture if desired.
- Do not overbake for a gooey center.
- Cool completely before cutting to avoid messy pieces.
