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Irresistible Chocolate Bird Nest Brownie Bites with Gooey Caramel Centers

chocolate bird nest brownie bites - featured image

These chocolate bird nest brownie bites feature a fudgy chocolate exterior with a gooey caramel center, perfect for quick and easy indulgent treats that delight both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/3 cup (35g) unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
  • 1/2 cup (65g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 36 individually wrapped caramel candies (e.g., Werther’s Original or Brach’s)
  • Optional: sprinkle of sea salt for salted caramel twist
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or walnuts
  • Mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with parchment liners.
  2. Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds until fully liquid but not hot. Let cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add melted butter and vanilla extract to the sugar-egg mixture and stir gently until just combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder.
  6. Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture with a spatula until just combined, no more than 10 gentle folds.
  7. Spoon about 1 tablespoon (15g) of brownie batter into each muffin cup, then create a small nest shape in the center.
  8. Unwrap and place one caramel candy in the center of each nest. Optionally sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top.
  9. Cover the caramel with another tablespoon of brownie batter, smoothing gently to seal.
  10. Sprinkle chopped nuts and mini chocolate chips on top.
  11. Bake for 15-18 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through. Brownies should be set around edges but soft in center.
  12. Let the bites cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Pop caramel candies in the freezer for 10 minutes before unwrapping to make peeling easier. Avoid overmixing batter to keep brownies fudgy. Rotate pan halfway through baking for even cooking. Let bites cool in pan before removing to help caramel set. If batter is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or coffee to loosen without changing flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chocolate brownie bites, caramel center, bird nest brownies, easy dessert, quick brownies, gooey caramel, homemade treats