If you have a sweet tooth that just won’t quit, the Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine a rich, fudgy brownie layered with luscious caramel all baked inside a flaky pie crust—a flavor and texture party that hits every note of comfort and indulgence. This dessert blends gooey caramel’s molten sweetness with the deep chocolatey punch of brownies, creating a pie that’s as stunning to look at as it is impossible to resist. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or sneaking a slice after dinner, this recipe promises to delight anyone lucky enough to taste it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe just right is all about simplicity and quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the buttery pie crust that provides foundational crunch to the rich caramel that brings that irresistible sweetness in silky layers. Here’s what you’ll need to create magic in your kitchen.
- Pie shell or pie dough: A pre-made crust saves time and gives a buttery, flaky base that perfectly holds the filling.
- Caramel bits or candies (11 ounces): These melt into a smooth, golden caramel layer that’s the star of the pie’s luscious filling.
- Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Adds creaminess and helps soften the caramel for that perfect texture.
- Unsalted butter, melted (3/4 cup): Infuses richness into the brownie batter and keeps it moist.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Balances sweetness while contributing to the classic brownie texture.
- Light brown sugar (1/2 cup): Provides a hint of molasses flavor and adds chewiness to the brownies.
- Eggs (2): Bind everything together and give structure to the brownie layers.
- All-purpose flour (3/4 cup): The essential base that creates the right brownie crumb.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (1/2 cup): Packs that intense chocolate flavor critical for brownie goodness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavor by adding warm, aromatic notes.
How to Make Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when your pie goes in. If you’re using pie dough instead of a pre-made shell, roll it out evenly and fit it into your pie pan, crimping the edges for a pretty finish. This step sets the stage for that flaky, buttery crust we all love.
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
In a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the caramel bits and heavy cream. Heat in 60-second bursts, stirring after each one to make sure the caramel melts evenly without burning. Once fully melted, let the caramel cool for about five minutes in the fridge—this helps it thicken just right for layering.
Step 3: Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about a minute until everything is smooth and well combined. Then, add the eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing thoroughly. Finally, fold in the flour until the batter is uniform and fudgy, scraping the sides as needed to get it all incorporated.
Step 4: Layer the Pie
Spread half of your brownie batter evenly over the pie crust—this forms the bottom fudgy layer. Next, pour the cooled caramel over this layer, reserving a few tablespoons of caramel for a later drizzle. Top the caramel with the remaining brownie batter, spreading gently with a spatula or spoon to cover most of the caramel; it’s okay if the layers swirl a little, adding to the rustic charm.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your pie in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The goal is a toothpick that comes out mostly clean, meaning the brownies are cooked through but still wonderfully moist. Once done, allow the pie to cool completely before moving on to the final touch.
Step 6: Final Caramel Drizzle and Optional Salt
Just before serving, drizzle the reserved caramel over the top of the pie. A light sprinkle of salt can be added here to contrast the caramel’s sweetness and highlight the chocolate notes, making each bite even more irresistible.
How to Serve Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance presentation and flavor by adding a few simple garnishes. A sprinkling of flaky sea salt gives a delightful contrast to the pie’s sweetness, while a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts can add texture and visual appeal. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side also makes the experience feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Since the Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe is rich and decadent, lighter side options are best to balance things out. Fresh berries or a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette can refresh the palate. For drinks, a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk perfectly complements the pie’s sweet, chocolatey layers.
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond the traditional pie plate by baking the brownie pie in mini tart pans for individual servings, perfect for parties. Or serve it warm in wedges topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elegant dessert. Even packing slices in pretty boxes makes for a charming homemade gift sure to impress friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep the pie fresh. Refrigerate for up to five days, where the brownies will retain their moist texture and the caramel stays firm but tender.
Freezing
The Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the pie tightly in foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dessert weeks after making it. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked feeling, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This quick step revives the fudgy texture and melts the caramel just enough to remind you why this pie is such a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! Using homemade pie dough can add an extra layer of flavor and freshness. Just make sure to chill it well before rolling out and keep it cold during prep for the flakiest crust possible.
What type of caramel works best for this recipe?
Kraft baking caramels or similar caramel bits work perfectly because they melt smoothly and blend well with the batter. Avoid using caramel sauces as they may be too runny for proper layering.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the caramel before layering?
Yes, cooling the melted caramel helps it thicken slightly, which makes layering easier and prevents it from sinking into the brownie batter. Five minutes in the fridge usually does the trick.
Can I substitute the cocoa powder with melted chocolate?
You can, but keep in mind you might need to adjust the flour and butter slightly to balance the moisture. Cocoa powder keeps the brownie texture fudgy yet firm, which works best in this layered pie.
What is the best way to serve the pie for kids?
Serve the pie slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to make it fun and approachable. Keeping the salted topping optional is also a good idea for younger taste buds.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe that makes it impossible to forget. Every forkful feels like a warm hug—rich chocolate, molten caramel, and a tender crust all coming together in sweet harmony. If you want to wow your family or friends with a dessert that’s both comforting and show-stopping, this pie is your golden ticket. So roll up your sleeves, gather those simple ingredients, and get ready to bake a treat that will become a timeless favorite in your home!
Print
Craving Caramel Brownie Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This decadent Caramel Brownie Pie combines the rich, fudgy texture of homemade brownie batter layered with a luscious caramel center, all baked in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a deliciously gooey and chocolatey treat with a salted caramel twist.
Ingredients
Pie Shell
- 1 pre-made pie shell or pie dough
Caramel Layer
- 11 ounces caramel bits or candies (e.g., Kraft baking caramels)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Brownie Batter
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Prepare Pie Shell: If using pie dough instead of a pre-made shell, roll it out and place it into your pie pan evenly.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits with heavy cream. Microwave for 60 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second increments, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth. Refrigerate for 5 minutes to cool slightly.
- Mix Sugars and Butter: In a large bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer for about 1 minute until well combined and smooth.
- Add Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the eggs, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to the sugar mixture. Mix thoroughly, then scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Add Flour: Add the all-purpose flour and mix until just combined. Scrape down the bowl again to ensure everything is incorporated evenly.
- Layer Brownie Batter: Spread half of the brownie batter evenly over the prepared pie crust.
- Add Caramel Layer: Reserve a few tablespoons of the melted caramel for topping later. Pour the remaining caramel evenly over the brownie batter in the pie crust.
- Top with Remaining Batter: Spoon the remaining brownie batter over the caramel layer as evenly as possible.
- Even Out Layers: Use a spatula or back of a spoon to gently spread and cover the caramel layer. It’s okay if the layers mix slightly during this step.
- Bake: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the brownie layer comes out clean.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Before serving, drizzle the reserved caramel on top and sprinkle with salt if desired for a perfect finishing touch.
Notes
- Use high-quality caramel bits for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the caramel is cool before layering to prevent it from sinking through the batter.
- Let the pie cool fully to set the layers properly for easier slicing.
- For extra flair, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top after drizzling caramel for a salted caramel twist.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
