Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie

When you’re craving something deeply chocolatey with layers of melty caramel, rich brownie texture, and a buttery crust, this Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie is your must-bake dessert. It combines everything indulgent into one slice—ideal for celebrations or those evenings when only the most comforting dessert will do.

This recipe has become a standout favorite among home bakers. If you’re making caramel from scratch, start with this detailed guide on how to make homemade caramel. Additionally, your brownie base needs to be moist and fudgy. If you’re unsure how to avoid cakey brownies, check out these expert brownie tips to ensure gooey perfection.

You’ll also find this dessert complements other fan-favorite sweets like delicious red velvet brownies and the ultra-viral churro cheesecake.

What Makes This Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie So Irresistible

There’s no shortage of brownie or caramel desserts out there, but this pie elevates the experience by layering both into a flaky or crunchy crust. It’s the kind of treat that melts slowly on your tongue, offering contrast in every bite: the slight chew of the brownie, the drip of caramel, the crisp crust.

Highlights:

• Fudgy brownie center with real chocolate
• Velvety caramel topping that’s sweet, creamy, and gooey
• A buttery, golden crust that balances the richness
• Easy to customize with nuts, salt, or ganache
• Great for making ahead

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crust (choose one):

• 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs or crushed pretzels
• ¼ cup sugar
• ½ cup melted butter

Brownie Layer:

• ½ cup melted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)

Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup thick caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• Optional toppings: flaky sea salt, chopped pecans, dark chocolate drizzle

Tools You’ll Need

Pie dish, electric mixer or whisk, spatula, saucepan, baking sheet, parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Mix your chosen crumbs with sugar and melted butter. Press into a 9-inch pie dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

2. Make the Brownie Layer

In a bowl, whisk butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla. Stir in cocoa, flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold in chocolate chips. Pour into the cooled crust.

3. Bake

Bake the brownie-filled crust for 25–30 minutes.

4. Add the Caramel

Let the pie cool 15–20 minutes. Spread caramel evenly on top. Optionally, add flaky salt or pecans. Let set fully before slicing.

5. Slice and Serve

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy chilled for firmer texture.

Variations to Try

• Peanut Butter Caramel Pie – Swirl peanut butter into brownie mix
• Nutty Delight – Add walnuts or pecans to brownie batter
• Mini Brownie Pies – Bake in muffin tins for individual servings
• Pretzel Crust Pie – For a salty twist, use crushed pretzels in the crust

These pair beautifully with quick treats like strawberry cream cheese bites or a light easy banana pudding.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can easily prepare this pie the day before. Bake and store in the fridge. Add the caramel topping before serving. It will last up to 4 days in an airtight container or 1 month in the freezer (tightly wrapped). Reheat slices in the microwave for 15 seconds to get that gooey center back.

Serving Pairings

• Fresh berries for contrast
• Espresso or coffee drinks like caramel brulée latte
• Whipped cream or ice cream
• Light main meals like salad or grilled chicken

Nutrition Estimate (Per Slice)

• Calories: ~420
• Fat: 22g
• Carbs: 50g
• Sugar: 32g
• Protein: 4g

To lighten it, use dark chocolate, sugar-free caramel, or a nut-based crust.

Baking Tips

• Don’t overbake: brownie should be soft in the center
• Always cool before adding caramel to avoid sinking
• Chill the pie for perfect slices
• Add flaky salt for flavor balance
• Use parchment for easy slice removal

FAQs

Can I use boxed brownie mix? Yes, but reduce the water for a fudgier result.
How do I stop caramel from sinking? Always cool the brownie before layering caramel.
Can I freeze it? Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze up to 1 month.
Why did my brownie turn cakey? Overmixing or too much flour. Stick to the ratios.
What’s the best caramel? Homemade caramel with heavy cream and butter works best.

Final Thoughts

This rich and gooey caramel brownie pie is one of those recipes that makes everyone ask for seconds. With its multiple textures and irresistible flavor, it deserves a spot in your dessert rotation. Serve it warm, cold, or somewhere in between—it never disappoints. And if you love rich chocolate desserts, you’ll definitely enjoy this chocolate and mousse cake as a next challenge.

And when you’re ready to upgrade your baking repertoire, browse these decadent brownie recipes for more inspiration.

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