Decadent Millionaire Brownies: The Ultimate Fudgy, Caramel & Chocolate Delight
Prepare to be utterly captivated by the sheer indulgence of Millionaire Brownies. These extraordinary dessert bars take the classic rich fudge brownies and elevate them to an unparalleled level of decadence, layering them with luscious, buttery caramel and a silky-smooth chocolate ganache. Each bite offers a symphony of textures and flavors – the deep cocoa of the brownie, the sweet chewiness of the caramel, and the luxurious melt of the chocolate – promising a truly unforgettable experience that lives up to their “million-dollar” name.
Why This Millionaire Brownie Recipe is a Must-Try
While classic millionaire’s bars typically feature a shortbread base, our Millionaire Brownies revolutionize the concept by replacing it with a thick, incredibly fudgy, and intensely chocolatey brownie layer. This simple substitution transforms the dessert from merely good to truly exceptional. The dense, moist brownie provides a robust foundation that perfectly complements the rich, buttery caramel and the elegant chocolate ganache. It’s a harmonious blend that offers a more satisfying chew and a deeper flavor profile, making every piece utterly irresistible.
This isn’t just another brownie recipe; it’s a labor of love that results in a dessert that truly stands out. Yes, these decadent bars require a little more effort in the kitchen, but the “million-dollar” taste and stunning presentation are undoubtedly worth every moment spent. Imagine a rich, chocolatey brownie topped with a thick, soft caramel that doesn’t ooze out when cut, all crowned with a glistening layer of smooth ganache. Who could possibly resist such a magnificent creation? We certainly can’t, and neither will your guests!
Gather Your Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Millionaire Brownies
To embark on this delightful baking journey, you’ll need a selection of quality ingredients for each of the three distinct layers: the fudgy brownie, the rich caramel, and the luscious ganache. While the full list with precise measurements can be found in the printable recipe card at the end of this post, it’s helpful to understand the role each component plays in achieving the perfect Millionaire Brownies. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will always yield the best results, enhancing the depth of flavor and overall texture of these luxurious bars.
Ingredient Insights & Clever Substitutions for Perfect Brownies
Crafting the perfect Millionaire Brownies involves selecting the right ingredients for each layer. Here’s a closer look at the key components and how you can optimize them for the best possible outcome, along with some helpful substitution suggestions.
The Fudgy Brownie Base
BROWNIES – For an authentic, truly superior Millionaire Brownie, we wholeheartedly recommend making your brownies from scratch. Our homemade fudge brownie recipe ensures a dense, moist, and intensely chocolatey base that elevates the entire dessert. While you *could* opt for a high-quality box mix for convenience, baking from scratch allows you to control the richness and texture, resulting in bars that are undeniably “that much better.” To enhance the brownie layer even further, consider folding in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness, or add some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful textural contrast and nutty flavor. Remember, the brownie is the foundation, so don’t skimp on quality!
The Luxurious Caramel Layer
CARAMEL – This is where homemade truly shines! We strongly suggest making your caramel from scratch for this recipe. Unlike thinner, store-bought jarred caramel, our homemade version is specifically designed to be a little thicker and chewier. This crucial difference ensures that when you cut into your Millionaire Brownies, the caramel stays perfectly in place, creating clean, beautiful layers without spilling out the sides. The process of making caramel at home also allows for a richer, more nuanced flavor that simply can’t be replicated with pre-made options. The creamy texture and deep, buttery notes of homemade caramel are essential for achieving the signature “million-dollar” taste and feel.
The Silky Chocolate Ganache Topping
GANACHE – The final touch, the chocolate ganache, provides a smooth, glossy, and intensely chocolatey finish. We use semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness that complements the rich caramel and brownie without being overly sugary. The heavy whipping cream is vital for creating that luxurious, pourable consistency when warm and a firm, sliceable texture once chilled. For a darker, more sophisticated flavor, you can use dark chocolate chips. Alternatively, if you prefer a sweeter topping, milk chocolate chips can be used, though you might need to adjust the cream slightly as milk chocolate melts differently. Ensuring good quality chocolate here will make a noticeable difference in the final taste and shine of your Millionaire Brownies.
Crafting Millionaire Brownies: Step-by-Step Instructions
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe with ease. For the complete printable version of this recipe, including all measurements and instructions, you can Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this page.
Preparing the Fudgy Brownie Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 by 8-inch baking pan with two pieces of parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over all four sides. This clever trick creates “slings” that make removing the cooled brownies incredibly simple.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients for your brownies: flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Set this aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, slightly cooled melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a handheld electric mixer to beat these ingredients together until the mixture thickens slightly and takes on the appearance of fluffy, wet sand.
- Now, add the two large eggs and one large egg yolk to the wet mixture. Continue beating with your electric mixer for about 6 to 8 minutes. This extended beating time is key to achieving that signature thick and fluffy texture, and you’ll notice the mixture will turn paler as it incorporates air.
- Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Beat only until just combined. Over-mixing at this stage can lead to a tougher brownie, so mix just enough to incorporate the flour without overdeveloping the gluten.
- Pour the rich brownie batter into your prepared pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly to all the edges.
- Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges of the brownies are set and the top begins to show slight crackles. It’s crucial not to over-bake, as this will result in dry brownies; a slightly underbaked center ensures maximum fudginess. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before proceeding to the next layer.
Creating the Homemade Caramel Layer
- While your brownies are cooling, it’s time to prepare the delectable homemade caramel. Place all the caramel ingredients (softened unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt) into a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
- Whisk constantly to prevent sticking and burning. Continue whisking until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and comes to a gentle boil. Resist the urge to increase the temperature beyond medium, as this can cause the sugar to crystallize or burn. Consistent stirring and controlled heat are your allies here.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of your saucepan, ensuring it doesn’t touch the bottom. Continue whisking and cooking the caramel until it reaches the soft ball stage, which is 225°F (107°C). This can be the longest step, often taking 20-30 minutes, so be patient and keep stirring diligently. The caramel will thicken considerably.
- Once the caramel reaches the target temperature, immediately remove it from the heat. Pour the hot caramel evenly over the completely cooled brownies in the pan, spreading it smoothly to the edges with a spatula.
- Chill the brownies with the caramel layer in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period is vital to allow the caramel to firm up properly, preventing it from displacing or mixing with the ganache when the final layer is added.
Finishing with Silky Chocolate Ganache
- To prepare the indulgent ganache, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals in the microwave, stirring or whisking thoroughly between each interval. Continue this process until the chocolate chips are completely melted and the ganache comes together in a thick, smooth, and glossy mixture. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
- Once the caramel layer is sufficiently firm, pour the warm ganache over it, spreading it gently and evenly to create a beautiful, smooth top layer.
- For an elegant finishing touch and a hint of contrasting flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the top of the still-wet ganache. This enhances the chocolate notes beautifully. Place the pan back into the refrigerator to chill for at least another 30 minutes, or until the ganache is completely set and firm.
- Once fully chilled and set, carefully lift the entire dessert from the pan using the parchment paper slings. Place it on a cutting board and use a sharp, warm knife (wiped clean between cuts) to slice into individual bars. Enjoy your exquisite Millionaire Brownies!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Millionaire Brownies
To ensure your Millionaire Brownies are always a success, here are some common questions and expert tips:
For optimal freshness and texture, store your Millionaire Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. While they can be refrigerated, this can sometimes cause the brownie layer to firm up a bit more, and the ganache can lose some of its glossy sheen. If you prefer them chilled, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving for the best flavor and chew.
Absolutely! Millionaire Brownies freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once the brownies are fully cooled and the ganache is completely set, you have a couple of options:
- Individual Freezing: Wrap each individual brownie bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or a large zip-top bag.
- Slab Freezing: You can also freeze the entire slab of brownies after carefully lifting it from the pan. For best results, consider flash freezing the entire slab on a baking tray for about 30-60 minutes until solid. This prevents the ganache layer from sticking to the wrap. Once firm, wrap the slab tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then place it into a large zip-top bag.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
The key to perfect caramel is temperature and consistent stirring. If your caramel is too runny, it likely didn’t reach the “soft ball” stage (225°F / 107°C) on the candy thermometer. If it’s too hard, it probably cooked beyond that temperature. Always use a reliable candy thermometer and stir constantly to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Patience is crucial for the caramel layer!
Yes, you can use a 9×9-inch pan instead of an 8×8-inch pan. Keep in mind that the brownie layer will be slightly thinner, and the baking time for the brownies may be a little shorter (check for doneness around 18-22 minutes). The caramel and ganache layers will also be thinner but will still set beautifully.
Elevate Your Millionaire Brownies: Serving Suggestions
Millionaire Brownies are a showstopper on their own, but a few simple garnishes can elevate them even further. For a truly professional touch and a delightful contrast, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of the ganache before it sets. This subtle addition beautifully enhances the rich chocolate and caramel flavors. You can also top them with chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and a hint of earthy flavor. Enjoy these brownies warm for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience, or at room temperature for a firmer, more structured bite. For an extra special treat, serve them alongside a scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream, allowing the ice cream to gently melt into the brownie for a truly luxurious dessert. Whether for a celebratory gathering or a quiet evening indulgence, these Millionaire Brownies are sure to impress.
While Millionaire Brownies are undeniably perfect for celebrations and special occasions, we often find ourselves whipping up a batch just because we crave a sweet, multi-layered treat to enjoy throughout the week. There’s truly no need for a grand event to justify indulging in something this delicious and satisfying. Treat yourself – you deserve it!
More Decadent Dessert Bar Recipes to Explore
If you’ve fallen in love with the layers and flavors of these Millionaire Brownies, you’ll definitely want to try some of our other favorite dessert bar recipes. From more chocolatey creations to fruity delights, there’s a bar for every craving:
- Nanaimo Bars: A no-bake Canadian classic with a crumbly base, creamy custard filling, and chocolate topping.
- Slutty Brownies: The ultimate indulgence featuring a chocolate chip cookie base, an Oreo layer, and a rich brownie topping.
- Lemon Brownies: A bright and zesty twist on the classic brownie, bursting with refreshing lemon flavor.
- Millionaire’s Bars: The traditional shortbread-based version for those who love the original.
- Millionaire’s Cake: All the flavors of Millionaire’s, reimagined in cake form.
- Blondies: Chewy, butterscotchy bars that are a delightful alternative to brownies.
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Millionaire Brownies
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Course:
Dessert
Cuisine:
American
16
brownies
2 hours
30 minutes
597
Amanda Davis
Ingredients
Brownies
-
¾
cup
all purpose flour -
¾
cup
unsweetened cocoa powder -
½
teaspoon
salt -
1
cup
granulated white sugar -
⅓
cup
light brown sugar
lightly packed -
6
Tablespoons
vegetable oil -
6
Tablespoons
unsalted butter
melted and cooled slightly -
1
teaspoon
vanilla extract -
2
large
eggs -
1
large
egg yolk
Caramel
-
1
cup
unsalted butter
softened -
1
cup
light brown sugar
packed -
14
ounces
sweetened condensed milk
1 can -
¼
cup
light corn syrup -
1
teaspoon
vanilla extract -
½
teaspoon
salt
Ganache
-
2
cups
semi-sweet chocolate chips -
½
cup
heavy whipping cream -
flakey sea salt
optional as garnish
Things You’ll Need
-
8×8 baking pan -
Mixing bowls -
Hand mixer -
Whisk -
Saucepan -
Candy thermometer
Before You Begin: Important Tips for Success
- You can also use a 9 by 9-inch pan to cook the brownies. Just note that they may bake a little faster due to the thinner batter layer, so start checking for doneness around 18-20 minutes.
- To make your brownie base even more indulgent, optionally add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter. For an added textural crunch and nutty flavor, feel free to fold in some of your favorite chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
- We highly suggest making your caramel from scratch for this recipe. Our specific caramel recipe is designed to be a little thicker than your average store-bought jar of caramel. This consistency is crucial for ensuring you can easily cut and bite into the Millionaire Brownies without the caramel spilling out the sides, creating those beautiful, distinct layers.
- Store the finished Millionaire Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and ideal texture.
- To Freeze – Millionaire Brownies are excellent for freezing! Once the brownies are fully cooled and all layers are set, you have a couple of options. For individual portions, wrap each brownie bar tightly in plastic wrap (a couple of times for extra protection) then place them in an airtight container or a large zip-top freezer bag. Alternatively, you can freeze the entire slab of brownies after removing it from the pan. For best results, flash freeze the slab on a baking tray until solid. This will prevent the ganache layer from sticking to the wrap. Once solid, wrap the slab tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn. Then, pop the wrapped slab into a large zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply place them at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Instructions
For The Brownies
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8 by 8-inch baking pan with 2 pieces of parchment paper so it hangs over all 4 sides for easy removal of the finished brownies.
-
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, and salt until thoroughly combined.
-
Using a handheld electric mixer, beat together the granulated white sugar, light brown sugar, vegetable oil, melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Continue beating until the mixture thickens slightly and develops a texture resembling fluffy wet sand. Then, add the 2 large eggs and 1 large egg yolk. Beat vigorously until the mixture becomes thick, fluffy, and visibly paler in color, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes with an electric mixer.
-
Carefully add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Beat just enough to combine everything, taking care not to over-mix the batter, as this can result in tough brownies.
-
Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and use an offset spatula to spread it out evenly across the bottom.
-
Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, or until the brownies are set along the outside edges and the top begins to show slight crackles. Be very careful not to over-bake, as this will compromise the fudginess. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before proceeding.
For The Caramel
-
While the brownies cool, prepare the caramel. Place all caramel ingredients (unsalted butter, light brown sugar, sweetened condensed milk, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt) in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.
-
Whisk constantly until the mixture is fully melted, smooth, and comes to a boil. It is very important not to increase the temperature beyond medium to avoid burning the caramel. Continue to stir constantly to prevent the caramel from sticking and burning on the bottom of the pan.
-
Fit the saucepan with a candy thermometer and continue whisking and cooking until the caramel reaches the soft ball stage, precisely 225°F (107°C). This entire process, from melting to soft ball stage, can take 20-30 minutes, so be patient and attentive.
-
Immediately remove the caramel from the heat and pour it evenly over the fully baked and cooled brownies, spreading it smoothly right to the edges of the pan.
-
Chill the pan in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up. This crucial step prevents the caramel from displacing or mixing with the ganache when the final layer is added.
For The Ganache
-
To make the chocolate ganache, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and heavy whipping cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
-
Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals in the microwave. After each interval, stir or whisk thoroughly until the chocolate melts completely and the ganache comes together into a thick, smooth, and glossy mixture.
-
Spread the warm ganache evenly over the chilled caramel layer in the pan.
-
For the finishing touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top of the still-wet ganache (if desired). Place the pan back into the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes, or until the ganache is completely set and firm.
-
Once fully chilled, lift the entire dessert from the pan using the parchment paper slings. Transfer it to a cutting board and use a sharp knife (wiping it clean with warm water between cuts for neat edges) to slice into individual Millionaire Brownie bars. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Serving:
1
brownie
|
Calories:
597
cal
|
Carbohydrates:
67
g
|
Protein:
6
g
|
Fat:
36
g
|
Saturated Fat:
19
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
4
g
|
Monounsaturated Fat:
10
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
95
mg
|
Sodium:
202
mg
|
Potassium:
334
mg
|
Fiber:
3
g
|
Sugar:
57
g
|
Vitamin A:
722
IU
|
Vitamin C:
1
mg
|
Calcium:
121
mg
|
Iron:
3
mg
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The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.