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This decadent chocolate caramel brownie bite recipe transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible treat that disappears at every gathering. The fudgy brownie base cradles a melty caramel center, while the chocolate caramel frosting adds the perfect finishing touch to these two-bite wonders.
I first made these for my daughter's birthday when she requested something chocolate and caramel. The look on her face when she bit into that first brownie with the caramel center was priceless and they've been our special occasion go-to ever since.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: Creates a rich base and smooth frosting texture
- Dark chocolate morsels: Provide deep chocolate flavor without excessive sweetness
- Granulated sugar: Balances the intensity of the dark chocolate
- All-purpose flour: Gives structure while keeping brownies fudgy
- Large eggs: Bind everything together while adding richness
- Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, especially the chocolate
- DOVE PROMISES Caramel Milk Chocolates: Create the perfect melty center
- Powdered sugar: Gives the frosting its smooth texture and sweetness
- Unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa powder: Intensifies the chocolate flavor
- Milk: Thins the frosting to the perfect piping consistency
- Caramel sauce: Adds another layer of caramel flavor to the frosting
How To Make Chocolate Caramel Brownie Bites
- Prepare the pan:
- Spray a mini muffin pan thoroughly with baking spray ensuring you coat the sides well. This step is crucial for easy removal of the brownies later.
- Melt the chocolate base:
- Combine butter and dark chocolate in a large microwave-safe bowl. Heat for one minute, stir well, then heat again for 30 seconds. Continue stirring until completely smooth with no chocolate lumps remaining.
- Mix the batter:
- Add sugar, flour, eggs, and salt to the melted chocolate mixture. Stir just until combined, being careful not to overmix which would make the brownies tough rather than fudgy.
- Portion and bake:
- Use a 1-tablespoon cookie scoop to divide the batter evenly among the mini muffin cups. This ensures uniform brownie bites that will bake evenly. Bake at 375°F for 11 to 13 minutes, until the edges are set but centers still look slightly underdone.
- Add the caramel center:
- While brownies bake, unwrap all your DOVE chocolates. Immediately upon removing brownies from the oven, press a chocolate caramel candy into the center of each brownie bite. The heat will soften the chocolate and begin melting the caramel inside.
- Cool properly:
- Allow brownies to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes until they set enough to handle. Then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- Make the frosting:
- Beat butter, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, milk, and caramel sauce together until smooth and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing. The frosting should be light, fluffy, and easily pipeable.
- Finish and serve:
- Once brownies are completely cool, pipe or spoon the chocolate caramel frosting onto each brownie bite. Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra flair if desired.
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The DOVE chocolates are what makes these truly special. I discovered them by accident when I ran out of my usual caramel candies and grabbed these from my secret chocolate stash. The way they melt while still maintaining their shape creates the perfect caramel pocket inside each brownie.
Storage Tips
These brownie bites stay fresh for 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. The caramel center actually improves after the first day as it continues to soften and meld with the brownie.
For longer storage, freeze unfrosted brownie bites for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then add the frosting before serving. I don't recommend freezing the frosted brownies as the texture can change.
Easy Substitutions
- If you can't find DOVE chocolate caramels, Rolos work beautifully as an alternative. Their size fits perfectly into the mini muffin brownies.
- For a deeper chocolate flavor, substitute dark cocoa powder for regular in the frosting. This creates an almost truffle-like topping that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Replace the caramel sauce in the frosting with dulce de leche for a more complex flavor profile with notes of browned butter and toffee.
Serving Suggestions
Arrange these brownie bites on a tiered dessert stand for an impressive display at birthday parties or holiday gatherings. The bite-size nature makes them perfect for dessert tables.
For an elevated dessert experience, warm individual brownie bites for 10 seconds in the microwave and serve with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream and extra caramel drizzle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What’s the key to making gooey brownie bites?
The secret is to not overbake the brownies. Bake them just until the tops are set, and ensure the caramel candies melt into the warm brownies for added gooeyness.
- → Can I use a different type of caramel candy?
Yes! While DOVE® PROMISES Caramel Milk Chocolates are recommended, Rolos or similar caramel-filled chocolates also work perfectly.
- → Do I need a mini muffin pan for this recipe?
Yes, a mini muffin pan is essential for creating the bite-sized shape and even baking. Be sure to spray it with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- → How should I store leftover brownie bites?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Can I make homemade caramel for the filling?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel would be a delicious alternative to store-bought candy and adds a personalized touch.