Transform your brownie mishaps into a decadent treat with these Salted Caramel Brownie Truffles. This gluten-free dessert combines rich brownie crumbs, luscious chocolate ganache, gooey salted caramel centers, all encased in a smooth dark chocolate shell. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at any gathering.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Brownie Truffles:

• 5 cups (about 600 g) crumbled brownies
• 1/2 cup chocolate ganache

For the Salted Caramel:

• 1 cup (200 g) caster sugar
• 70 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (115 mL) double cream
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Chocolate Shell:

• 250 g dark chocolate, melted

Directions

Prepare the Brownie Truffle Mixture:

1. In a bowl, combine the crumbled brownies with the chocolate ganache until the mixture is moist and fudgy.

Make the Salted Caramel:

1. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the caster sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep golden brown.
2. Carefully add the butter, stirring until fully incorporated. Be cautious as the mixture may bubble vigorously.
3. Slowly pour in the double cream while stirring continuously. Again, be cautious of bubbling and steam.
4. Test the consistency by cooling a small amount; if too thick, add more cream as needed.
5. Stir in the salt, cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and let cool completely. Refrigerate until needed.

Assemble the Truffles:

1. Take about 1/8 cup (34 g) of the brownie mixture, roll into a ball, then flatten into a circle.
2. Place approximately 1/2 tbsp (14 g) of the chilled salted caramel into the center.
3. Wrap the brownie mixture around the caramel, sealing it completely, and roll into a smooth ball.
4. Repeat with the remaining mixture and caramel.
5. Place the truffles on a tray and refrigerate for about 15 minutes to firm up.
6. Dip each truffle into the melted dark chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated.
7. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Storage:

• Store the truffles in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3-4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Nutritional Facts

Per truffle (approximate values):

• Calories: 206 kcal
• Total Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 2 mg
• Sodium: 914 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 39 g
• Sugars: 28 g
• Protein: 3 g

The Appeal of Brownie Truffles

Brownie truffles themselves are an innovative way to repurpose brownies that might not have turned out exactly as planned. Instead of wasting leftover brownies that might be a bit too dry or crumbly, these truffles allow you to transform them into something extraordinary. By combining crumbled brownies with chocolate ganache, the texture becomes moist, rich, and creamy, making them ideal for shaping into truffles. Adding salted caramel inside elevates the flavor profile, creating an exciting contrast between sweet and salty that has captivated dessert enthusiasts worldwide.

Why Salted Caramel?

Salted caramel has become a modern classic in the dessert world. The addition of salt to traditional caramel highlights the sweetness while balancing it out, preventing the sugar from becoming overwhelming. Salt enhances the depth and complexity of the caramel flavor, turning it into something uniquely satisfying. When paired with chocolate, salted caramel creates a flavor marriage that feels both nostalgic and gourmet at the same time. This flavor pairing is particularly effective in desserts like truffles, where the concentrated taste in a small form leaves a lasting impression.

Gluten-Free Advantage

One of the most attractive aspects of this salted caramel brownie truffles recipe is that it is gluten-free. For those with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or anyone looking to reduce gluten consumption, finding a dessert that is both indulgent and safe to eat can be challenging. These truffles offer a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Using gluten-free brownies as the base ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions, can enjoy these decadent treats without worry.

The Art of Texture and Flavor Contrast

The salted caramel brownie truffle is a masterclass in combining complementary textures and flavors. The brownie base offers a dense, chewy texture that is deeply chocolatey. The salted caramel center provides a smooth, creamy, and slightly sticky contrast that adds a burst of flavor inside the truffle. Finally, the chocolate shell provides a crisp snap as you bite into the truffle, sealing the entire experience with a satisfying crunch. This multi-textured approach is what makes these truffles so irresistible and enjoyable to eat.

Perfect for Gifting and Special Occasions

Salted caramel brownie truffles make an excellent gift for food lovers. Their elegant appearance and rich flavor make them suitable for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and even weddings. Wrapped in decorative boxes or placed in pretty tins, these truffles are a thoughtful and impressive homemade gift option. They’re also a fantastic treat to serve at parties and gatherings, where guests can enjoy small, bite-sized desserts that are easy to share and enjoy.

Customization and Variations

While the classic salted caramel brownie truffle recipe is spectacular on its own, it also offers plenty of room for customization. You can experiment with different types of chocolate for the shell, such as milk chocolate or white chocolate, to alter the taste and sweetness level. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate shell before it sets enhances the salted caramel theme and adds a visually appealing finishing touch. For an extra layer of flavor, you could also incorporate nuts, espresso powder, or even chili flakes inside the brownie mixture to give your truffles a unique twist.

Health Considerations

Although salted caramel brownie truffles are undeniably delicious, they are also rich in sugar and fat, which means they should be enjoyed in moderation. The combination of butter, sugar, chocolate, and cream makes them a high-calorie treat. For those who are mindful of their nutritional intake, savoring these truffles as an occasional indulgence rather than an everyday snack is advisable. That said, because they are small in size, they offer a satisfying sweet experience in a controlled portion, which can help curb overindulgence.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is key to maintaining the texture and flavor of salted caramel brownie truffles. They should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If the climate is warm, refrigeration is recommended to prevent the chocolate shell from melting. When refrigerated, the truffles will last for about a week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to a month, but it’s best to thaw them slowly at room temperature before serving to preserve their texture and flavor integrity.

Pairing Ideas

These truffles pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Coffee, especially dark roast or espresso, complements the rich chocolate and caramel flavors beautifully. For tea lovers, black teas like Earl Grey or chai provide a spicy or citrusy contrast that balances the sweetness of the truffles. For an adult twist, pairing with a dessert wine such as a late harvest Riesling or a tawny port can elevate the experience, enhancing the caramel and chocolate notes.

Conclusion

Salted caramel brownie truffles are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of texture, flavor, and creativity in the kitchen. They transform simple ingredients into an extraordinary treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, including those with gluten sensitivities. Their combination of fudgy brownie, sweet and salty caramel, and crisp chocolate shell creates a sensory experience that is both comforting and sophisticated.