Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Whisk until smooth and glossy. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to fully incorporate. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Mix just until combined. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans, reserving a handful of each for sprinkling on top.
Step 5: Bake the Brownies
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and pecans over the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Step 6: Add the Caramel and Sea Salt
- Remove the brownies from the oven and immediately drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the warm brownies. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the caramel into the top layer if desired. Sprinkle the sea salt over the caramel.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the brownies to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into squares. Serve with a glass of cold milk or your favorite hot beverage.
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa powder and chocolate chips for best flavor.
- Toast pecans lightly before adding to enhance their nutty aroma.
- Store-bought caramel sauce can be used but choose one with simple ingredients.
- Sea salt topping is essential for balancing sweetness; do not substitute with table salt.
- Add mini chocolate chunks or toffee bits for extra texture.