Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cheesecake layer)
– 1 cup salted caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Flaky sea salt for garnish
Equipment Needed
– 9×13 inch baking pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Electric mixer (optional but recommended)
– Rubber spatula
– Saucepan (for caramel if making homemade)
– Parchment paper (for easy removal)
Step-by-Step Instructions
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it super easy to lift the bars out later. In a large mixing bowl, melt the butter and whisk in the granulated sugar. Then add the eggs, one by one, mixing until everything is combined. Fold in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract, creating a rich, thick brownie batter. It should look sinfully delicious at this stage! (See the next page below to continue steps…)