Have you ever tasted something so delightful that it felt like your taste buds were dancing a joyous jig? That’s precisely the sensation you get when you bite into these Irish Sea Salt Caramel Brownies. With their dense, fudgy base and a velvety layer of rich caramel, these brownies are nothing less than a symphony of flavors.
Isn’t it amazing how the simple act of baking can transport us to a different place and time? As the aroma of melting chocolate and caramel wafts through my kitchen, I am instantly transported to the emerald green landscapes of Ireland, with its craggy cliffs overlooking the mesmerizing Atlantic Ocean. Are you ready to embark on this culinary journey with me?
The Magic of Irish Sea Salt
Irish sea salt is the secret ingredient that elevates these brownies from delicious to divine. Harvested from the pristine Atlantic waters, it delivers a unique crunch and subtly briny flavor that perfectly offsets the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate. It’s the gustatory equivalent of a cool sea breeze on a warm summer day.
This salt doesn’t just taste good – it’s packed with minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. So, while these brownies are undoubtedly a treat, they also offer a pinch of nutritional goodness.
Choosing the Right Chocolate
When it comes to chocolate, quality truly makes a difference. Opt for high-quality dark chocolate, around 70% cacao. The deeper, more complex flavors of dark chocolate work wonders in balancing the rich, sweet caramel and brings a depth to the brownies that milk chocolate simply cannot match.
Remember, the chocolate you choose will essentially be the star of your brownies, so don’t skimp on quality. After all, a symphony is only as good as its leading violin, right?
Caramel – The Liquid Gold
Caramel, when made right, can be a game-changer. The trick is to cook it to just the right stage where it has a thick, pourable consistency and a deep golden color. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste while undercooking will leave you with a too-sweet, thin sauce.
Patience is key here. Keep a close eye on your caramel, stir it often, and remember – good things come to those who wait. Is there anything more rewarding than watching sugar transform into liquid gold?
Ingredients
- 200g high-quality dark chocolate
- 250g unsalted butter
- 250g caster sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 70g plain flour
- 30g cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp Irish sea salt
- 200g sugar for caramel
- 100ml heavy cream for caramel
- 1/2 tsp Irish sea salt for caramel
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4 and line a 20x30cm baking tin with baking parchment.
- Melt the chocolate and butter together in a saucepan over low heat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and eggs until frothy. Slowly add the melted chocolate and butter mixture, whisking continuously. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and sea salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the brownie is just set in the middle.
- While the brownie is baking, prepare the caramel. Melt the sugar in a saucepan over medium heat until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream, followed by the sea salt.
- Once the brownie is cooked, remove from the oven and pour over the caramel. Allow to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Tips for Irish Sea Salt Caramel Brownies
Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter. Always line your baking tin with parchment paper for easy removal of the brownies. Be patient when making the caramel, rushing it can lead to a poor consistency or burnt taste.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
These Irish Sea Salt Caramel Brownies are a unique fusion of sweet and salty, rich and decadent, and a timeless classic with a twist. The combination of the rich, fudgy brownie with the sweet, creamy caramel and the punch of sea salt makes for an irresistible dessert that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Carbohydrate: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 30g
- Protein: 5g