Introduction to Cake Mix Caramel Brownies

Myself, I know how challenging it can be to whip up something delightful in the kitchen while juggling chores and endless to-do lists. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Cake Mix Caramel Brownies. This sweet, easy delight is the perfect answer to the question: “What’s for dessert tonight?” With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create brownies that will impress your friends and family. Trust me, they won’t believe how easy it was to make such a rich and indulgent treat!

Why You’ll Love This Cake Mix Caramel Brownies

These Cake Mix Caramel Brownies are your new best friend in the kitchen! They’re incredibly easy to make, saving you precious time on busy days. Plus, the combination of rich chocolate and creamy caramel is simply irresistible. Whether you need a quick dessert for a last-minute gathering or a sweet treat for your family, these brownies will satisfy every craving, leaving smiles all around!

Ingredients for Cake Mix Caramel Brownies

Let’s dive into the star-studded lineup for these magnificent brownies! Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a dessert that’s simply delightful. Here’s what you’ll need:

Caramels: Unwrapped caramels are key for that sticky, gooey layer of sweetness. Look for brands that are soft and easy to melt.
Evaporated Milk: This rich milk adds creaminess to the caramel layer and prevents the brownies from becoming too dry. It’s a smooth operator!
German Chocolate Cake Mix: The backbone of this recipe, it provides a decadent, chocolatey flavor with zero hassle. Feel free to switch to any chocolate cake mix you adore.
Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds richness that can’t be beat. Just remember, using unsalted allows you to control the saltiness in your final treat.
Pecans: Chopped pecans bring a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re not a fan, you could substitute walnuts or simply skip them altogether.
Chocolate Chips: No brownie is complete without them! These little gems create gooey pockets of chocolate bliss. Dark, milk, or semi-sweet, they’re all fair game.

Don’t worry about the exact amounts just yet. You’ll find all the measurements at the bottom of the article, and they’re available for printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Cake Mix Caramel Brownies

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the fun part—making those Cake Mix Caramel Brownies! Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll be enjoying a delicious slice in no time.

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). While it warms up, grab a 23 x 33 cm baking pan and spray it generously with non-stick spray. This will ensure your brownies release easily after baking. Trust me; no one likes a broken brownie!

Step 2: Melt the Caramel

In a small saucepan, place your unwrapped caramels and 120 ml of evaporated milk. Over low heat, stir frequently. Be gentle and patient—this process should take 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and creamy. You want to avoid burning that lovely caramel, so keep an eye on it!

Step 3: Make the Brownie Base

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, 80 ml of evaporated milk, and the melted butter. Also, toss in the chopped pecans. Stir until everything is just blended and you see a thick, cohesive dough forming. It should be a bit sticky; that’s perfect for our brownies!

Step 4: Bake the Brownie Base

Press half of the brownie dough evenly into your prepared pan. We want this base to be nice and set, so pop it into the oven for 8 minutes. This baking time will give it a firm foundation to hold all that deliciousness to come!

Step 5: Layer Chocolate Chips and Caramel

After those 8 minutes, take the pan out of the oven and sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the baked layer. Now, drizzle that luscious melted caramel on top. Spread it gently to ensure every bite gets that sweet, gooey goodness!

Step 6: Add Remaining Dough

Remove the remaining dough from the fridge. Pinch off small pieces, flatten them between your hands, and place them over the caramel layer. Take your time creating a nice blanket over the caramel, but avoid stressing if it’s not perfect. Remember—the more rustic, the better!

Step 7: Final Bake

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the brownies should be just set around the edges but still soft in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Once done, let them cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

For smoother caramel, ensure it’s fully melted before pouring over the chocolate layer.
Let the brownies cool completely for cleaner, neat cuts. Patience is key!
Spray your measuring cup with non-stick spray before measuring sticky ingredients like caramel or butter.
To enhance flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
Use a sharp knife to slice the brownies for clean cuts. Better presentation!

Equipment Needed

Baking Pan: A 23 x 33 cm pan is ideal. If you don’t have one, a similar-sized pan will work.
Small Saucepan: For melting caramel. A microwave-safe bowl can be an alternative for quick melting.
Mixing Bowls: A medium and large bowl will suffice. Use any sturdy containers you have.
Spatula: For mixing and spreading. A wooden spoon or even your hands will do!

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Simply omit the pecans or substitute with chocolate chips for added chocolate flavor.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free chocolate cake mix to ensure everyone can enjoy these brownies!
Ultimate Caramel Lovers: Add an extra layer of caramel on top before baking for a gooier treat.
Peanut Butter Delight: Swirl in some creamy peanut butter with the caramel for a fun flavor twist.
Dairy-Free: Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and plant-based butter for a tasty vegan treat.

Serving Suggestions

Iced Coffee: Pair these brownies with a refreshing iced coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle extra melted chocolate over the brownies for a stunning presentation.
Fresh Berries: Add a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Slice and Serve: Cut into smaller squares for bite-sized treats at gatherings or parties.

FAQs about Cake Mix Caramel Brownies

As I’ve shared my recipe for these delightful Cake Mix Caramel Brownies, I can imagine some questions bubbling up in your mind. Here are a few common queries to give you a clearer picture before you start baking!

Can I use a different cake mix?

Absolutely! While the German chocolate cake mix adds a rich flavor, feel free to swap it for any chocolate cake mix you enjoy. It’s all about personal preference!

How should I store leftover brownies?

Store any leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge for an extra week!

Can I make these brownies ahead of time?

You can definitely make these brownies a day ahead. Just make sure to store them properly to keep that gooey goodness intact!

What if I don’t have evaporated milk?

No worries! You can substitute it with regular milk or even cream, though it may slightly alter the richness of the caramel layer.

Are these brownies suitable for kids?

Yes! These Cake Mix Caramel Brownies are kid-approved and perfect for school events or family gatherings. Just keep an eye on portion sizes—they’re super rich!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, fudgy brownie, especially when it’s topped with luscious caramel. Making these Cake Mix Caramel Brownies brings joy not only to your taste buds but also to the heart. It’s a recipe that bridges the gap between tradition and simplicity, making it perfect for busy moms like us. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or treating yourself after a long day, these brownies will deliver happiness in every bite. So gather your loved ones and enjoy the smiles as you serve up these sweet delights!