Miso Caramel Brownies

Experience a sophisticated twist on a classic treat with these Miso Caramel Brownies. These fudgy, decadent brownies are marbled with luscious caramel swirls infused with white miso, creating a perfect harmony of deep chocolate and a savory-sweet umami kick that will delight dessert lovers looking for something unique.

Pin it

This recipe transforms the humble brownie into a masterpiece of flavor. By blending the richness of 60–70% dark chocolate with the creamy, salty depth of miso-infused caramel, you achieve a dessert that is both familiar and excitingly complex.

Ingredients

• 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa), chopped
• 150 g (⅔ cup) unsalted butter, cubed
• 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 100 g (½ cup, packed) light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 100 g (¾ cup) all-purpose flour
• 30 g (⅓ cup) unsweetened cocoa powder
• ½ tsp fine sea salt
• 100 g (½ cup) granulated sugar (for the caramel)
• 60 ml (¼ cup) heavy cream
• 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter (for the caramel)
• 1½ tbsp white miso paste
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (for the caramel)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Line a 20 cm (8-inch) square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Miso Caramel

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 100g sugar until it becomes a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble). Add 30g butter and stir until smooth. Whisk in miso paste and vanilla until fully incorporated. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Melt Chocolate and Butter

Melt chopped dark chocolate and 150g butter together in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, or microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. Cool slightly.

Step 4: Mix Sugars and Eggs

Whisk granulated and light brown sugars into the melted chocolate-butter mixture. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 tsp vanilla.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gently fold until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Layer and Swirl

Spread half the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Dollop half the miso caramel over the batter and swirl gently with a knife. Top with remaining brownie batter, then swirl in the rest of the miso caramel.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 32–35 minutes, until the edges are set but the center is still fudgy. A skewer inserted should come out with moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Cool completely in the pan on a rack before cutting into 16 squares.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For an extra touch, sprinkle the top of the batter with flaky sea salt before putting it in the oven. This enhances the savory notes of the miso and creates a beautiful finish.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can substitute milk chocolate for a sweeter brownie experience. For those who enjoy a deeper umami kick, try using red miso, but use a slightly smaller amount as it tends to be saltier than white miso.

Serviervorschläge

These decadent squares pair exceptionally well with a cup of strong espresso or a glass of sweet dessert wine. They are best served at room temperature to appreciate the texture of the caramel.

Pin it

With their irresistible combination of rich chocolate and salty-sweet miso caramel, these brownies are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Enjoy the unique fusion of flavors!

Recipe FAQs

→ What gives the caramel its unique flavor?

The caramel incorporates white miso paste, which adds an umami depth and subtle saltiness that balances the sweetness beautifully.

→ How do I achieve fudgy brownies with a moist center?

Use a combination of dark chocolate, butter, and sugars, and avoid overbaking. The internal texture should remain soft with slightly set edges.

→ Can I substitute the white miso with another type?

Yes, red miso can be used for a stronger umami punch, but reduce the quantity due to its higher salt content.

→ How do I create the caramel swirls in the batter?

After preparing the brownie batter, dollop half the miso caramel on top, swirl gently with a knife, then add remaining batter and swirl again with caramel.

→ What pairs well with these brownies?

These brownies complement a bold espresso or a sweet dessert wine, enhancing the sweet and salty flavor profile.

→ Are there any common allergens in this dish?

Yes, it contains eggs, dairy, gluten, and soy from the miso. Check all labels if you have specific sensitivities.