Dessert

Dulce de Leche Brownies Recipe

ByHarper Ellington March 6, 2026March 6, 2026

Introduction

These Dulce de Leche Brownies combine rich chocolate flavor with creamy, caramel-like swirls for a decadent treat. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they offer a delightful twist on classic brownies.

Two thick brownie squares sit on a white plate, each with a rich, dark brown base layer that looks soft and moist with a slightly crumbly texture. On top of the base is a swirled light brown caramel layer mixed throughout, creating a marbled effect over the surface of the brownies. Small, dark chocolate chips are scattered across the caramel swirls, adding a glossy, slightly shiny detail. The caramel drips slowly down the sides of the brownies, pooling a little on the white plate below. The background is a white marbled texture, highlighting the rich colors of the brownies. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
1 cup dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 2: Pour half of the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Drop spoonfuls of dulce de leche over the batter. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the dulce de leche into the batter. Pour the remaining brownie batter on top and spread gently. Add more dulce de leche on top for extra swirls if desired.
Step 3: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the brownies to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy your rich and gooey dulce de leche brownies!

Tips & Variations

For a nuttier flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter.
If you prefer a more intense chocolate taste, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular unsweetened cocoa powder.
Try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled brownies for an extra indulgent touch.
Homemade dulce de leche can be made by simmering sweetened condensed milk; it adds a fresh caramel flavor.

Storage

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave to soften before serving.

How to Serve

Two thick brownie squares sit on a white plate with a white marbled texture background. Each brownie has two visible layers: the bottom layer is dark, rich, and moist chocolate, while the top layer swirls with light brown caramel, mixed in with the chocolate batter. Small dark chocolate chips are scattered on top, and caramel sauce drips down the side of the front brownie, pooling slightly on the plate. The texture looks soft and gooey with a slight crack on the brownie top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dulce de leche?

Yes, homemade dulce de leche works wonderfully and adds a fresh, rich caramel flavor. Just ensure it is thick enough to swirl into the batter without sinking completely.

Can I make these brownies gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking to make these brownies gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, so watch baking time closely.