Millionaire Brownies

Millionaire Brownies are the epitome of indulgence, combining a rich brownie base with a luscious caramel layer and a decadent chocolate ganache. This triple-layered treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields spectacular results. Let’s dive into the world of these luxurious brownies and discover what makes them so irresistible!

Preparation

Preparing the Brownie Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until well combined.
4. Add the melted butter to the sugar mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.

Making the Caramel Layer

1. Heat the granulated sugar and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color.
3. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream and butter until smooth.
4. Optional: Stir in sea salt for a salted caramel layer.
5. Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the baked brownie base.

Preparing the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Place the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Add the butter and stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.

Detailed Instructions

Baking and Assembling the Brownies

1. Bake the brownie base in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
2. Cool the brownie base completely in the pan.
3. Pour the slightly cooled caramel over the brownie base, spreading it evenly. Allow it to set at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
4. Pour the prepared chocolate ganache over the set caramel layer, spreading it evenly.
5. Refrigerate the brownies for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set completely.

Final Touches

1. Cut the brownies into squares using a sharp knife.
2. Optional: Garnish with extra sea salt flakes or a drizzle of caramel.

Serving Suggestions

Best Ways to Serve Millionaire Brownies

• Chilled: For a firmer texture and enhanced flavors.
• Room Temperature: For a softer, gooier experience.
• With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the rich flavors perfectly.

Beverage Pairings

• Coffee: A strong cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the brownies.
• Milk: Classic and comforting, milk is always a good choice.
• Red Wine: A rich, full-bodied red wine pairs wonderfully with the chocolate.

Tips and Tricks

Ensuring the Perfect Texture

• Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients for the brownie base, mix just until incorporated to avoid a tough texture.
• Monitor the Caramel: Keep a close eye on the caramel as it can burn quickly once it starts to color.
• Set Properly: Allow each layer to set fully before adding the next to ensure clean, defined layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking the Brownies: This can result in a dry, crumbly base.
• Undercooking the Caramel: Ensure the caramel reaches the right consistency to set properly.
• Rushing the Setting Process: Patience is key for perfectly layered brownies.

Nutritional Information

Calorie Count

• Each serving of Millionaire Brownies contains approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the size of the portions and ingredients used.

Nutritional Benefits

• Protein: Eggs and butter provide some protein content.
• Antioxidants: Cocoa powder contains antioxidants which have health benefits.
• Energy: These brownies are energy-dense, making them a great occasional treat.

Variations of the Recipe

Nutty Millionaire Brownies

• Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (e.g., pecans, walnuts) to the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.

Salted Caramel Millionaire Brownies

• Add sea salt flakes to the caramel layer and sprinkle some on top of the ganache for a delightful sweet and salty combination.

Storing and Reheating

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftover brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor

• Room Temperature: Allow brownies to come to room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
• Microwave: Warm individual portions in the microwave for a few seconds for a gooey experience.

Health Benefits

Benefits of the Ingredients Used

• Cocoa Powder: Rich in antioxidants which may have various health benefits.
• Butter: Contains fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
• Eggs: Provide protein and essential nutrients.

Why Millionaire Brownies Are a Delectable Treat

• Despite being a rich treat, the ingredients used in moderation can be part of a balanced diet, offering both indulgence and some nutritional benefits.

Cultural Significance

The Popularity of Brownies in Various Cultures

• Brownies are a beloved dessert in many cultures, known for their rich chocolate flavor and versatility.

How This Rich Dessert Has Become a Favorite Treat

• The combination of chocolate, caramel, and ganache makes Millionaire Brownies a standout dessert, perfect for special occasions and celebrations.
  Yield: 16

  Millionaire Brownies

  

  Print

  Millionaire Brownies are the epitome of indulgence, combining a rich brownie base with a luscious caramel layer and a decadent chocolate ganache. This triple-layered treat is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and impressing guests at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields spectacular results. Let’s dive into the world of these luxurious brownies and discover what makes them so irresistible!

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  Prep Time 30 minutes

  Cook Time 40 minutes

  Additional Time 30 minutes

  Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes

  Ingredients

  • Caramel Topping:
  • 2/3 cup (half a 14 oz. can) sweetened condensed milk (200g)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into chunks (56g)
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
  • 2 Tbsp light corn syrup (30g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (4g)
  • 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
  • Shortbread Crust:
  • 1/2 cup or 1 stick unsalted butter, room temperature (113g)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (125g)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (30g)
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt (1g)
  • Brownie Batter:
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar (300g)
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (95g)
  • 2/3 cup cocoa powder, sifted (65g)
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar (65g)
  • 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, chopped (90g)
  • 1/2 tsp fine salt (3g)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature (112g)
  • 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil (55g)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (55g)
  • 2 Tbsp water (30g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (4g)
  • Chocolate Ganache Topping:
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (120g)
  • 2/3 cup dark (60-65% cocoa) chocolate chips (120g)
  • 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature (30g)
  • 1 Tbsp corn syrup - optional (20g)
  • 1/4 tsp fine salt (2g)

  Instructions

  Caramel Topping

  1. Make the caramel filling first so that it can thicken up before we use it to top the brownies.
  2. Heat 2/3 cup of sweetened condensed milk, 1/4 cup butter, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, and 2 Tbsp light corn syrup over medium heat in a heavy saucepan. Stir frequently and let the mixture just begin to bubble (if you have and are using a candy thermometer, cook until the mixture hits 212 F/ 100 C). It will start bubbling up on the sides of the pan first. Once this happens, turn the heat down to low to let the caramel simmer.
  3. Continue to stir frequently until the mixture thickens and becomes a medium caramel color (about 5-7 minutes). You should be able to drag a spatula through the mixture and see the bottom of the pan for a second once it's ready. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 tsp vanilla extract and 1/2 tsp fine salt.

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  1. Pour into a separate container, then set aside to cool to room temperature. If you make this in advance, cover the bowl and store it at room temperature overnight or in the fridge for up to a week. If you refrigerate the caramel, heat it in the microwave in short 15-second intervals until it reaches room temperature and is a more workable consistency.

  Shortbread Crust

  1. Next, work on the shortbread crust. Preheat the oven to 350 F / 175 C. Line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside
  2. Use a fork or pastry cutter to combine 1/2 cup butter, 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup powdered sugar, and 1/4 tsp fine salt.
  3. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan with your fingers. Prick the crust thoroughly with a fork, then bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown.
  4. Place the pan on a wire rack to cool. Keep the oven on but lower the temperature to 325 F / 163 C.

  Brownie Batter

  1. While the cookie crust bakes and cools, make the brownie batter. In a medium bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups sugar, 3/4 cup flour, 2/3 cup cocoa powder, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, and 1/2 tsp salt.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup melted butter, 2 Tbsp water, and 1 tsp vanilla.
  3. Pour the dry mix into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. The mixture will be pretty thick, but that's how it's supposed to be!
  4. Pour the batter over the shortbread crust in the prepared pan and smooth it into an even layer. Bake at 325 F / 163 C for 38-43 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with only a few moist crumbs.
  5. Set on a wire rack to fully cool before topping. If you want to accelerate the process, place the pan in the freezer for 30 minutes.

  Chocolate Ganache Topping

  1. Make the chocolate ganache as the brownies bake and cool because it needs time to cool and thicken before we top the brownies with it.
  2. Heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream in a heatproof bowl in the microwave for 45 seconds, until it's just beginning to bubble.
  3. Gently pour 2/3 cup of dark chocolate chips into the heavy cream. Make sure the chips are fully covered with cream. Let the mixture sit for 1 minute. If you want to use milk chocolate to make the ganache, use 1/3 cup (80g) of heavy cream and 1 1/3 cups (240g) of milk chocolate.
  4. Stir slowly until the cream and chocolate combine and the mixture is smooth. If any bits of chocolate aren't fully melted, heat the mixture again for 15 seconds and stir until smooth.
  5. Mix in 2 Tbsp of room temperature unsalted butter, 1 Tbsp corn syrup, and 1/4 tsp fine salt until combined.
  6. Cover with plastic wrap to prevent the ganache from forming a skin, then set aside to cool to room temperature. If you need to make this in advance, it can be covered and stored in the fridge for up to a month.
  7. Set aside to cool to room temperature. If you want to accelerate the cooling process, place the bowl in the fridge.

  Decorating These Millionaire Brownies

  1. Once the brownies are fully cooled, scoop the room-temperature caramel on top and spread it into an even layer.
  2. Then spread the room-temperature chocolate ganache on top of the caramel.
  3. Add a sprinkle of flakey sea salt, then use a sharp, warm knife to cut into the chilled brownies. Clean the knife after each cut to get perfect slices. Leftover brownies can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for 2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

  Nutrition Information:

  
  Amount Per Serving: Calories: 490