When that inevitable chocolate craving strikes, nothing quite satisfies like a batch of warm, gooey brownies fresh from the oven. I discovered this decadent recipe for Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies during one of my culinary adventures—I was exploring ways to elevate my traditional brownie game. The moment I poured the rich butterscotch sauce over the top and sprinkled it with a hint of sea salt, I knew I had stumbled upon something extraordinary.
These brownies are not just sweet treats; they bring with them the delightful contrast of rich chocolate and a buttery, luscious butterscotch that creates an experience impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself after a long day, these brownies promise to impress any crowd and provide the comfort of home-baked goodness. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will elevate your dessert game!
Why You'll Love This Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies
- These Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort in the kitchen.
- The rich, gooey texture of these brownies combined with the decadent butterscotch sauce creates a flavor explosion that will delight your taste buds.
- With their unique blend of chocolate and butterscotch, these brownies are perfect for any occasion and can easily be customized to suit different preferences.
- Their gorgeous appearance, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, makes them as visually stunning as they are delicious, guaranteeing they’ll be a hit at your next gathering.
Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies Ingredients
For the Brownies
• Unsalted butter – This will keep your brownies rich and moist without any overpowering saltiness.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetness is key; it helps balance the bittersweet flavor of cocoa powder.
• Large eggs – Eggs provide structure and bind all the ingredients together for that perfect brownie texture.
• Vanilla extract – A must for enhancing the flavors, making these brownies truly irresistible.
• Unsweetened cocoa powder – The star of the show; it gives your brownies that deep, chocolatey flavor they deserve.
• All-purpose flour – This ingredient provides stability; too much will make your brownies dense, so measure carefully.
• Salt – Just a pinch helps enhance the sweetness and overall flavor of the brownies.
• Baking powder – This leavens your brownies slightly, giving them a delightful rise.
For the Butterscotch Topping
• Unsalted butter – Used again for a rich, creamy butterscotch sauce that complements the brownies perfectly.
• Packed brown sugar – This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that pairs wonderfully with chocolate.
• Heavy cream – A splash is essential for a smooth, luxurious butterscotch sauce that melts in your mouth.
• Vanilla extract – Like in the brownies, it elevates the butterscotch flavor to heavenly heights.
• Sea salt – A sprinkle on top adds a delightful contrast to the sweet butterscotch, making each bite unforgettable.
Enjoy these Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies, as they’re sure to become a family favorite in no time!
How to Make Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential step ensures your brownies bake evenly, giving them that delicious gooey texture we all adore. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and silky smooth.
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Whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. This is the dry mix that will add structure and flavor to your brownies.
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Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. You want a lusciously thick and rich brownie batter.
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Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared baking pan. This ensures that every inch of your brownies gets that decadent texture and flavor.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes. Test with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs when they’re perfectly cooked. Let cool slightly afterward.
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Prepare the butterscotch sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of butter, packed brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbling, about 3–5 minutes—you’re creating a luscious topping!
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Pour the warm butterscotch mixture over the slightly cooled brownies, spreading it evenly across the top. This is where the magic happens, giving your brownies their decadent character.
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Sprinkle additional sea salt over the top. That little touch elevates the flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweet butterscotch.
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Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares—about 30 minutes in the refrigerator will help set the butterscotch layer for the perfect slice.
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Serve by cutting into squares, and prepare for everyone’s delight as they devour these indulgent treats!
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra special touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies Variations
Feel free to customize your brownies with these fun twists and substitutions to suit your taste buds.
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Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and rich flavor contrast. Perfect for nut lovers!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to enjoy these brownies without gluten. Just ensure it’s a one-to-one substitute for the best results.
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Minty Fresh: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of peppermint extract into the brownie batter for a refreshing minty twist that’s perfect during the holidays.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the brownie batter for a surprising, spicy warmth that will elevate the chocolate flavor to new heights.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Marble in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking for a deliciously nutty and decadent treat.
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Vegan Option: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and swap the butter for coconut oil to create a rich vegan version.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle store-bought or homemade caramel sauce over the top of the butterscotch before serving for an extra indulgent layer of sweetness.
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Coffee Infusion: Brew a shot of espresso and mix it into the brownie batter to deepen the chocolate flavor and add a delightful coffee essence.
With these variations, your brownies are sure to turn into a delicious adventure, bringing something unique to each batch you bake!
How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies
Room Temperature: Keep brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: Store in the fridge to extend shelf life up to 1 week. Ensure they’re in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze brownies in individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Let thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: For that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, gently microwave individual brownies for 10-15 seconds, or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the brownie batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients separately and refrigerating them. The butterscotch sauce can be made and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To enjoy your brownies, simply spread the chilled batter in your baking pan and bake as directed. For the butterscotch layer, reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before pouring it over the brownies. This way, you’ll have the same indulgent, gooey results with minimal effort when you’re ready to serve!
What to Serve with Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies?
Transform your dessert experience and elevate these indulgent brownies into a memorable feast that delights the senses.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the warm brownies, creating a dreamy mouthfeel.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst of tartness that elevates the rich chocolate flavors.
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Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate intensifies the cocoa goodness while adding an elegant touch to your presentation.
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Creamy Coffee: A cup of bold brewed coffee balances the sweetness, enhancing the experience and offering a delightful pick-me-up.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel over the brownies adds an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of decadence.
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Nutty Brownie Sundae: Create a sundae by adding whipped cream, toasted nuts, and a cherry on top for a classic dessert twist.
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Mint Tea: A soothing sip of mint tea clears the palate and complements the flavors of the brownies beautifully.
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Sea Salt Flakes: Enhance each bite’s flavor by serving with a small bowl of sea salt flakes for an irresistible gourmet touch.
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Nutty Biscotti: For a crunchy contrast, pair your brownies with nutty biscotti for dipping in coffee or tea.
These suggestions not only pair beautifully with Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies, but they also ensure your dessert spread is an unforgettable treat!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies, ensure your butter is truly melted before combining with the sugar and eggs to achieve a smooth batter.
- Avoid overmixing the brownie batter after adding dry ingredients; this will help maintain a fudgy texture instead of making them tough.
- For an extra rich butterscotch topping, use high-quality brown sugar and ensure not to rush the cooking process to allow for proper caramelization.
- Letting the brownies cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after adding the butterscotch will make cutting them into perfect squares much easier and neater.
Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies Recipe FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for these brownies?
When making Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies, I recommend using good quality cocoa powder for the richest flavor. Look for brands labeled “unsweetened” and try to avoid anything with added sugar or fillers. A higher cocoa content (like 70%+) will give you that deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the butterscotch topping.
How do I know when my brownies are done baking?
A toothpick test is your best friend here! After baking for 20-25 minutes, insert a toothpick into the center of your brownies. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs attached, they are perfectly done. If it comes out with wet batter, give them a few more minutes.
How long can I store Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies?
Absolutely! You can keep your brownies fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you prefer a longer shelf life, store them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they are sealed well to keep them moist and delicious.
Can I freeze these brownies for later?
Yes, you can freeze Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies! Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil to keep them extra protected. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture.
What if my brownies come out too dry?
If you find that your brownies are dry, it might be due to overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and keep an eye on the baking time. For a quick fix, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle some extra butterscotch sauce on top for added moisture!
Are these brownies safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, good news! This Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies recipe is naturally nut-free as long as you use nut-free butter alternatives. Always double-check ingredient labels on your products to avoid cross-contamination, especially if you’re serving those with allergies.
Chocolate Salted Butterscotch Brownies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter for richness
- 1 cup granulated sugar to balance cocoa
- 2 large eggs for binding
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor enhancement
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder gives deep chocolate flavor
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour adds stability
- 1/4 teaspoon salt enhances sweetness
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder for slight rising
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter for creamy sauce
- 1 cup packed brown sugar for caramel-like sweetness
- 1/2 cup heavy cream for smooth sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to elevate flavor
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt for contrast
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
- Melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl.
- Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just combined.
- Spread the brownie batter evenly in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool slightly in the pan.
- Prepare the butterscotch sauce by combining butter, packed brown sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth.
- Pour the butterscotch mixture over the brownies and sprinkle with sea salt.
- Cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares, about 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Serve by cutting into squares.
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