# **Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie: A Decadent Dessert Masterpiece**
## **Introduction**
Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this **Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie**—a heavenly fusion of fudgy brownie, luscious caramel, and a buttery crust. Whether you choose a **graham cracker** or **pretzel crust**, this dessert delivers the perfect balance of sweet and salty, chewy and crunchy. Ideal for celebrations, cozy nights in, or impressing guests, this pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
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## **Ingredients**
### **For the Crust (Choose One):**
– **1½ cups graham cracker crumbs** (or crushed pretzels for a salty twist)
– **¼ cup granulated sugar**
– **6 tbsp melted butter**
### **For the Brownie Layer:**
– **½ cup unsalted butter**
– **1 cup granulated sugar**
– **2 large eggs**
– **1 tsp vanilla extract**
– **⅓ cup cocoa powder**
– **½ cup all-purpose flour**
– **¼ tsp salt**
– **¼ tsp baking powder**
### **For the Caramel Layer:**
– **1 cup store-bought caramel sauce** (or homemade)
– **½ cup heavy cream** (to thin the caramel if needed)
– **1 tsp sea salt** (optional, for salted caramel)
### **For Topping (Optional):**
– **Whipped cream**
– **Chocolate shavings**
– **Extra caramel drizzle**
– **Vanilla ice cream**
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## **Instructions**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Crust**
1. Preheat oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Mix **graham cracker crumbs** (or pretzel crumbs), **sugar**, and **melted butter** until well combined.
3. Press firmly into a **9-inch pie dish**, covering the bottom and sides.
4. Bake for **8-10 minutes**, then let cool.
### **Step 2: Make the Brownie Layer**
1. Melt **butter** in a saucepan, then whisk in **sugar**.
2. Beat in **eggs** and **vanilla**.
3. Sift in **cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder**, mixing until smooth.
4. Pour over the crust and bake for **20-25 minutes** (until a toothpick comes out slightly moist).
5. Let cool completely.
### **Step 3: Add the Caramel Layer**
1. Warm **caramel sauce** (mix with **heavy cream** if too thick).
2. Pour over the cooled brownie layer.
3. Sprinkle **sea salt** (if using).
### **Step 4: Chill & Serve**
1. Refrigerate for **2 hours** to set.
2. Slice and serve with **whipped cream, ice cream, or extra caramel drizzle**.
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## **History & Origin**
The **brownie pie** is a modern twist on classic **brownies** (invented in the U.S. in the late 1800s) and **caramel pies** (popularized in Southern cuisine). Combining them creates a **decadent hybrid**—part pie, part brownie, all delicious.
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## **Benefits & Nutrition (Per Serving)**
– **Energy Boost:** High in carbs and sugars for quick energy.
– **Comfort Food:** Releases serotonin for happiness.
– **Moderate Protein & Calcium** (from eggs and dairy).
*(Note: Enjoy in moderation due to high sugar content.)*
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## **Why Lovers Adore This Pie**
– **Perfect for Date Nights** (romantic and indulgent).
– **Great for Sharing** (impressive yet easy to make).
– **Customizable** (add nuts, chocolate chips, or marshmallows).
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## **Conclusion**
This **Rich and Gooey Caramel Brownie Pie** is a **showstopper dessert**—creamy, fudgy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a **chocolate lover, caramel fan, or dessert enthusiast**, this pie is a must-try! Serve it warm with ice cream for the ultimate experience.
**🍫 Slice, Savor, and Enjoy! 🍮**
Would you like any variations (like adding nuts or a chocolate ganache layer)? 😊