Craving something sweet, rich, and utterly irresistible? These caramel brownie truffles are your ticket to dessert heaven. Combining the fudgy goodness of brownies with the creamy sweetness of caramel, these bite-sized treats are perfect for any occasion.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of fudgy brownie and creamy caramel creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
- Using store-bought caramel saves time without sacrificing taste, making this recipe a breeze.
- Rolling the truffles in cocoa powder adds a sophisticated finish and a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.
- These truffles are freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead for parties or gifts.
- They’re versatile; easily customizable with different coatings or fillings to suit any taste.
Ingredients
- 1 box (18.3 oz) fudge brownie mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder, for rolling
Equipment Needed
- 8×8 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This ensures your brownies bake evenly and come out cleanly. Tip: Lightly grease the parchment paper for extra non-stick insurance.
Mix the Brownie Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, eggs, and water. Stir until just combined; overmixing can make the brownies tough. The batter should be thick and glossy. Pour it into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for easy handling when forming the truffles.
Form the Truffles
Once cooled, crumble the brownies into a large bowl. Add the caramel sauce and mix until well combined. The mixture should be sticky but hold together when pressed. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form the mixture into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in cocoa powder until fully coated. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
Chill and Serve
Place the truffles on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set. This step ensures they hold their shape and enhances the flavors. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel before mixing it with the brownie crumbs. If you’re short on time, using a food processor to crumble the brownies can speed up the process. For a smoother texture, sift the cocoa powder before rolling the truffles. To make these truffles even more indulgent, dip them in melted chocolate after the cocoa powder coating and let them set before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the caramel sauce for peanut butter or Nutella for a different flavor profile.
- Roll the truffles in crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles instead of cocoa powder for variety.
- Add a teaspoon of espresso powder to the brownie mix for a mocha twist.
- For a festive version, mix in some chopped peppermint candies and roll the truffles in crushed candy canes.
- Make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free brownie mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade brownies instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite brownie recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure the brownies are fudgy rather than cakey for the best texture in the truffles. You’ll need about 2 cups of crumbled brownies.
How long do these truffles last?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, these truffles will keep for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I make these truffles without eggs?
Yes, you can use an egg substitute like flax eggs or commercial egg replacer in the brownie mix. Check the package instructions for the correct substitution ratio.
Summary
These caramel brownie truffles are a decadent, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With a few simple ingredients and some creativity, you can customize them to suit any taste or occasion.
