Miso Caramel Brownies

Name: Miso Caramel Brownies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 brownies
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon white miso; 1/2 cup soft caramel candies; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon white miso

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making these Miso Caramel Brownies whenever I want to impress my friends or indulge myself. The combination of rich chocolate and umami flavor creates a unique dessert that’s undeniably addictive. The miso adds depth to the sweetness without overpowering it, resulting in a perfectly balanced treat. I love how these brownies are simple yet elegant, making them ideal for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you'll understand why they have a special place in my baking repertoire!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T13:46:28.516Z

Baking these Miso Caramel Brownies for the first time was an adventure in flavor. I was curious to see how miso would transform the traditional brownie experience. The result exceeded my expectations with a luscious caramel swirl that perfectly complemented the chocolate. Keeping a close eye during the baking process ensures the brownies stay fudgy and moist, so I recommend using a toothpick to check for doneness without overbaking.

The feedback I received was overwhelmingly positive, and I've since made them for numerous gatherings. I also experimented with different types of miso, and I found that white miso provided the perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness. Each time I bake these, I feel like I'm sharing a little piece of my creativity and joy with everyone around me.

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Surprising flavor combination that keeps guests guessing
Chewy, fudgy texture that is simply irresistible
Perfect for both casual gatherings and formal events

Understanding Miso in Desserts

Miso adds a unique umami flavor that deepens the sweetness of desserts and complements chocolate beautifully. In this recipe, the use of white miso is key; it's milder and sweeter than darker varieties, allowing it to enhance the other flavors without overwhelming them. The balance in this Miso Caramel Brownie is what sets it apart from traditional chocolate brownies, delivering a complex flavor experience that will surprise your palate.

When baking with miso, it's important to remember that a little goes a long way. The tablespoon used in this recipe gives just the right hint of savory flavor to the sweet brownies. If you're experimenting, you can adjust the amount based on your taste preference, but be cautious not to add too much, as it could shift the flavor profile and make your brownies overly salty.

Perfecting Your Brownie Texture

Achieving that chewy, fudgy texture is crucial when making brownies, and there are a few tips to ensure your Miso Caramel Brownies turn out perfectly. First, avoid overmixing the batter once the flour and cocoa powder are added. Mixing until just combined helps retain that desirable texture. Flattening the batter gently in the pan also prevents air pockets, which can lead to uneven baking.

Another important factor is the baking time; keeping a close eye on your brownies as they bake will help you avoid overcooking. When you insert a toothpick in the center after about 25 minutes, look for a few moist crumbs rather than a clean pull. The residual heat will continue to cook the brownies slightly after removing them from the oven, creating that rich, fudgy consistency you desire.

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

For the Brownies

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon white miso

For the Caramel Swirl

1/2 cup soft caramel candies
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon white miso

Ensure everything is at room temperature to achieve the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your decadent brownies:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

Melt Chocolate and Butter

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and chocolate chips over low heat, stirring until smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Remove from heat and stir in the sugar. Then, mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla. Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and miso, stirring until just combined.

Prepare Caramel

In a small saucepan, melt the caramel with heavy cream and miso over low heat until smooth.

Assemble the Brownies

Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the caramel mixture over the batter. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top, and finish with the rest of the caramel, swirling it lightly with a knife.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.

For optimal flavor, let the brownies rest for a few hours before enjoying.

Pro Tips

Experiment with different types of miso to customize the flavor profile of your brownies!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Miso Caramel Brownies can be stored at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last up to a week. Make sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor experience.

If you're planning ahead for an event or party, you can prepare the brownie batter a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking for even cooking. The caramel can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge; just microwave it to soften before swirling it into the batter.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve these brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The creaminess can balance the rich flavors and enhance the overall experience. You can also drizzle a bit of extra caramel sauce over the top just before serving for added sweetness and a beautiful visual touch.

If you'd like to add a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling some sea salt or crushed nuts on top before baking. This creates a delightful contrast with the soft, chewy brownie and can elevate the flavor profile even further. Pair these brownies with a rich coffee or a dessert wine to complement their complex flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolate, but dark chocolate gives the best depth of flavor.

→ How should I store the leftover brownies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

→ What can I serve with these brownies?

These brownies pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.