Bad News Brownies
Bad News Brownies are decadent layered treats featuring caramel, chocolate chips, nuts, and a rich cake crust, perfect for indulgent gatherings or satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine caramels and 1/3 cup evaporated milk in a double boiler and melt until smooth.
- In a bowl, combine cake mix, melted oleo (butter), 1/3 cup evaporated milk, and chopped nuts. Stir until dough holds together.
- Press half of the dough into a greased and floured 13 x 9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the crust for 6 to 8 minutes.
- Remove from oven and while still hot, sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the crust.
- Spread melted caramel mixture over the chocolate chips.
- Sprinkle the remaining dough over the caramel layer to cover completely.
- Bake for an additional 15 to 18 minutes, until the top is set and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. If you don't have caramels, you can substitute with a store-bought caramel sauce. Ensure to keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; the top should be golden and set but not overly dry. For a fun variation, try adding a layer of crushed peppermint for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Bad News Brownies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee. For gatherings, consider serving them alongside a refreshing 7 Layer Salad(Make The Night Before) for a perfect balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover brownies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, ensuring they remain soft and gooey.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bad News Brownies contains roughly 386 calories, with 6g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value), iron (13% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with other flavors of cake mix, such as chocolate or vanilla, but ensure that they complement the caramel and chocolate layers. Adjust the amount of nuts and chocolate chips accordingly to maintain balance in flavor and texture.
How can I make these brownies gluten-free?
To make these brownies gluten-free, simply substitute the German chocolate cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix. Always check the labels of your chocolate chips and caramels to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
What should I do if my brownies are too gooey?
If your brownies are too gooey after baking, they may need a bit more time in the oven. Return them to the oven for a few extra minutes, checking frequently to avoid overbaking. Allow them to cool completely before cutting, as they will firm up as they set.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).