Miso Caramel Brownies

Name: Miso Caramel Brownies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 brownies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup white miso paste; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 2 tablespoons white miso paste

Highlighted under: Classic Bakery Favorites

When I first decided to experiment with miso in desserts, I never knew it would elevate my brownies to such lofty heights. The combination of the sweet caramel and the umami-rich miso creates a harmonious balance that is utterly divine. Each bite offers a surprise, as the rich chocolate flavor mingles with a subtle depth that keeps you coming back for more. If you're ready to impress your friends and family with something unique, these Miso Caramel Brownies are the way to go!

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:45:28.152Z

I was initially skeptical about using miso in my baking, but after trying these brownies, I was completely converted. The salty notes of miso, combined with the sweetness of caramel, create an addictive flavor profile that is anything but ordinary. I love experimenting with unconventional ingredients in my dessert recipes, and this one truly stands out.

As I perfected the caramel sauce, I learned that timing is key—overcooking can lead to a hard candy texture instead of the silky smoothness I aimed for. I recommend keeping a close eye on it while it bubbles away, stirring occasionally to avoid burning. Trust me; it's worth the effort!

Why You'll Love These Brownies
Unexpected umami flavor from the miso enhances the sweetness
Decadently rich and fudgy texture
Perfect blend of salty and sweet in every bite

Unlocking the Umami

Using white miso paste in these brownies not only adds a surprising flavor depth but also helps to balance the richness of the chocolate and caramel. Unlike the darker misos, white miso offers a milder taste that harmonizes beautifully without overwhelming the sweetness. Its natural umami properties enhance the overall flavor, making each bite more complex and satisfying. This hidden note of flavor sets these brownies apart from traditional recipes, enticing even the most discerning of palates.

If you're hesitant about incorporating miso into desserts, rest assured. The sweetness of the caramel sauce expertly masks the saltiness of the miso, creating a delightful blend. I encourage you to taste the caramel sauce before combining it with the brownies; you'll find that it lends an irresistible flavor without being overtly savory. Try to use high-quality miso, as different brands may have varying levels of saltiness and umami, which can affect the final outcome.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Brownies

For achieving that perfect fudgy texture, it’s crucial to monitor the baking time closely. When you insert a toothpick into the brownies, you want it to come out with a few moist crumbs—not completely clean. This indicates that the brownies are set but still retaining their moist, gooey interior. If your oven tends to run hot, consider reducing the baking time by a couple of minutes to prevent overbaking.

Using a good quality baking pan can also make a significant difference in how your brownies cook. A light-colored metal pan tends to yield even baking, whereas a dark or glass pan might cause the edges to cook faster than the center. Additionally, lining your baking dish with parchment paper not only helps with easy removal but also allows for even cooling, preventing sogginess at the bottom.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own delicious Miso Caramel Brownies.

Brownie Base

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup white miso paste

Caramel Sauce

1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon sea salt
2 tablespoons white miso paste

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a unique treat!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your Miso Caramel Brownies.

Prepare the Brownie Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and granulated sugar. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then stir in the white miso paste until incorporated.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add the granulated sugar and stir constantly until it melts and turns golden brown. Carefully add the heavy cream and butter; the mixture will bubble up. Continue stirring until smooth, then add the sea salt and miso paste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Combine and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish. Pour half of the brownie batter into the dish, followed by half of the caramel sauce. Then, top with the remaining brownie batter and drizzle the rest of the caramel on top. Use a knife to swirl the mixture gently. Bake for 25 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Serve

Allow the brownies to cool in the baking dish for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for a gooey treat, or let them cool completely for cleaner cuts. Enjoy your Miso Caramel Brownies!

Enjoy your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before baking. This adds a beautiful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel and enhances the flavors overall.

Storage and Reheating

Store your Miso Caramel Brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them to extend their life to about a week. They may become firmer when chilled, but a quick 10-15 second pop in the microwave will bring back that gooey texture, making them blissfully warm and delectable again. When reheating, keep an eye on them to prevent overheating, as too much time in the microwave can lead to a dry finish.

If you intend to make these brownies ahead of time for an event, you can freeze them for up to three months. Wrap each brownie individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them before serving for a treat that tastes freshly baked!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips into the brownie batter. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while dark chocolate chips can take the chocolate flavor to the next level. Just keep in mind that adding additional ingredients may alter the baking time slightly, so check for doneness as you approach the 25-minute mark.

For those who may have a nut allergy or want to keep the brownies completely nut-free, consider adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before baking. This enhances the flavor and gives a beautiful finishing touch. Alternatively, you can swap the cocoa powder with an equal amount of carob powder for a unique twist that maintains the flavor profile but offers a different nutritional composition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour, though it may alter the texture slightly.

→ What can I use instead of miso?

If you need a substitute, you can try tahini or almond butter, but the unique flavor of miso is irreplaceable.

→ How should I store leftover brownies?

Store the brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze these brownies?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.