In a heavy bottom saucepan over low-medium heat, add the sugar. Continually stir the sugar with a spatula until completely melted. Sugar will clump, but eventually will melt completely.
Once sugar is melted, continue to stir until the liquid reaches a medium-amber color. If using a candy thermometer, the temp should be between 245°F and 250°F.
Working quickly before the liquid turns to a dark amber color, add the heavy cream. Be careful - The mixture will bubble!
Remove from heat and stir in salt. Stir in the butter, one piece at a time, stirring until each piece is almost completely incorporated before adding the next.
Allow to cool at least 20 minutes before using in the brownie recipe.
For the brownies:
Line the bottom and sides of a 9x9 baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Melt the chocolate and the butter using a double boiler method by setting a heatproof bowl over a saucepan filled with about 1 inch of simmering water. Stir frequently to incorporate. Once the chocolate is melted let it cool slightly, about 3 or 4 minutes, enough time to get the remaining ingredients ready.
Whisk in ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the melted chocolate. Add the 3 eggs, whisking in one at a time.
In a small bowl combine the ¾ cup flour, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, and ¼teaspoon salt. Using a spatula, fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients.
Pour the batter into the 9x9 pan. Drizzle ½ cup caramel over batter in rows. Drag a knife or toothpick across the rows, swirling the caramel.
Bake at 350°F for 35-37 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Garnish with sea salt flakes.
Notes
Store-bought caramel will work just as well as homemade!
These brownies can be made in a standing mixer or easily by hand with a whisk and spatula.
If using a microwave to melt the chocolate, use a heatproof bowl and microwave at intervals of 10 seconds until melted.
Garnish with an extra drizzle of caramel for sticky gooey deliciousness!
Brownies will stay fresh for up to 5 days if stored in an air tight container.