Description
These Poke Turtle Brownies are ultra-moist, rich, and indulgent, filled with pockets of gooey caramel, studded with pecans and chocolate chips, and topped with a silky chocolate frosting. A final drizzle of caramel and extra toppings makes them absolutely irresistible! Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you need a decadent chocolate fix.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Brownies:
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup butter, melted (2 sticks)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 1/4 cups pecans, roughly chopped, divided
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (or sub regular)
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 6 tbsp butter, softened
- 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp light corn syrup (or sub honey)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 2โ3 tbsp milk
Instructions
1. Prepare the Brownies:
- Preheat oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Line a 9ร13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until smooth.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating after each addition until just combined. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips and ยพ cup chopped pecans.
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.
2. Bake & Poke the Brownies:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the brownies cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
- Use the back of a chopstick or small wooden spoon to poke holes all over the brownies.
- Pour ยฝ cup caramel sauce over the brownies and spread into the holes with a spatula.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour (or freeze for 30 minutes) to allow the caramel to set.
3. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- In a small bowl, beat butter, cocoa powder, corn syrup, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Add powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk, beating until smooth.
- Add additional milk if needed for a spreadable consistency.
4. Frost & Garnish:
- Once caramel has set, spread chocolate frosting over the brownies. (You donโt have to use all of it, but itโs highly recommended!)
- Sprinkle with ยฝ cup chopped pecans and ยผ cup mini chocolate chips.
- Drizzle with ยผ cup caramel sauce.
5. Serve & Store:
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate to allow the frosting to set for easier cutting.
- For an extra indulgent treat, microwave a brownie for 15 seconds before eating!
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Brownies (without toppings) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Add frosting and toppings after thawing.
- Caramel Substitute: Use store-bought caramel sauce or homemade caramel for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg