Get ready to embark on a decadent flavor journey that will make your taste buds dance with pure delight! These Chocolate Caramel Orange Brownies are not just another dessert - they're a symphony of rich chocolate, luxurious caramel, and bright citrusy notes that will transform your ordinary baking experience into an extraordinary culinary adventure. Imagine cutting into a fudgy, gooey brownie that reveals swirls of golden caramel and hints of fresh orange zest - this is a dessert that promises to steal the show at any gathering and leave your guests begging for the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter completely. Add granulated sugar and whisk until well combined and slightly smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and fresh orange zest, mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour half the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half the caramel sauce over the batter and swirl gently with a knife.
- Add the remaining brownie batter on top, then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes. The brownies are done when a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan. Use parchment paper overhang to lift brownies out and cut into 12 equal squares.
- Optional: Garnish with additional orange zest or a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving.
Tips
- Use room temperature eggs for better batter integration and smoother texture.
- Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough, dense brownies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
- For the most precise caramel swirl, use a thin knife or toothpick to create elegant marble-like patterns.
- Check brownies early - ovens can vary, so start checking around 25 minutes to prevent overbaking.
- Allow brownies to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat squares.
- For extra richness, use high-quality cocoa powder and dark chocolate chips.
- Store brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- For an extra flavor boost, toast the orange zest briefly before adding to enhance its aromatic qualities.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 425kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 110mg
