Prepare yourself for an indulgent treat with The Pioneer Woman’s Knock You Naked Brownies. These decadent brownies feature a rich chocolate base, gooey caramel layer, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for dessert lovers, these brownies are sure to leave everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- 2 bags (11 oz each) caramels, unwrapped
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/3 cup plus 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
2. Prepare the Brownie Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the German chocolate cake mix, 1/3 cup of evaporated milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a thick dough.
- Press half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Set the other half of the dough aside.
3. Bake the Base Layer:
- Bake the pressed dough in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until it is set but not fully baked. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
4. Make the Caramel Layer:
- While the base layer is baking, combine the unwrapped caramels and 1/2 cup of evaporated milk in a medium saucepan over low heat.
- Stir constantly until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
5. Assemble the Brownies:
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the partially baked brownie base.
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the pecans, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
6. Top with Remaining Dough:
- Take the remaining half of the brownie dough and press it into small flat pieces with your hands.
- Place the pieces over the top of the caramel and chocolate chip layer. It’s okay if some caramel peeks through.
7. Bake Again:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the top layer is set and the edges are slightly crispy.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the brownies from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. This may take a few hours, or you can refrigerate them to speed up the process.
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar if desired.
9. Cut and Enjoy:
- Use a sharp knife to cut the brownies into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy these rich, gooey, and delicious brownies!
Cook’s Tips:
- Melting Caramels: Melt the caramels slowly over low heat and stir constantly to avoid burning and ensure a smooth mixture.
- Cooling Time: Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting to prevent the caramel from oozing out.
Variations:
- Nut-Free: Omit the pecans if you prefer or have nut allergies.
- Extra Chocolatey: Add an extra layer of chocolate chips between the caramel and top brownie layer.
- Different Nuts: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
FAQs:
- Can I use a different cake mix? Yes, you can use a different chocolate cake mix, but German chocolate cake mix gives the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
- How do I store these brownies? Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Can I freeze the brownies? Yes, you can freeze the brownies. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 3 months.
- Can I make these brownies gluten-free? Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
The Pioneer Woman’s Knock You Naked Brownies are a must-try for anyone who loves a rich, chocolatey dessert with layers of caramel and crunchy pecans. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy making and sharing these indulgent brownies with friends and family!
