Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt

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Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt

Let me tell you—these Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt have officially become the talk of the house. I first whipped them up on a whim after a backyard cookout, just to see what would happen if I married the deep richness of brownies with that smoky flavor we love from the grill. And oh my goodness, I wasn’t prepared for the level of obsession that would follow.

We’re talking ultra-fudgy, gooey brownies with a hint of smokiness that makes you pause with each bite, layered generously with silky caramel that drips like golden magic, and finished with a sprinkle of bacon salt that adds just the right kiss of savory crunch. The combo is wild in the best way.

The kids were sold at “brownies,” but it was my husband who declared these the best dessert I’ve ever made. He even asked if we could make a double batch next time “just to be safe.” That’s when you know you’ve struck gold.

What I love most is how this recipe takes something classic and comfortable and transforms it into a total flavor experience. It’s indulgent, it’s unexpected, and it’s the kind of treat that feels right at home at both a summer BBQ or a cozy movie night. If you’re ready to wow your family or guests with something out of the ordinary that still feels like comfort food, these smoked brownies are the way to go.

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I make these without a smoker?
Yes! You can use a grill with a smoker box, or even add a drop or two of liquid smoke to your brownie batter. It won’t be quite the same, but still delicious.

What is bacon salt and where do I find it?
Bacon salt is a smoky, savory finishing salt that you can either buy or make yourself using crispy bacon bits and flaky salt. It adds an incredible contrast to the sweetness.

Can I use boxed brownie mix?
Absolutely. If you’re short on time, a good-quality boxed mix will still work well. Just make sure to add the caramel and bacon salt to elevate it.

How do I get the caramel to drip like in the photo?
Warm it slightly before drizzling! A few seconds in the microwave does the trick for that luscious, pourable texture.

How smoky do these brownies taste?
They have a subtle smoky depth—not overpowering. It balances beautifully with the sweet and salty elements.

What You Need to Make Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

½ cup brown sugar, packed

4 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

½ tsp salt

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

½ cup thick caramel sauce (plus more for topping)

1 tbsp bacon salt (see tip section below)

Special Tools:

Smoker or grill with smoker box

9×9-inch baking dish

Parchment paper

Mixing bowls and whisk

Heatproof saucepan or double boiler

How to Make Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt

Preheat your smoker to 275°F and add your preferred wood chips—cherry or pecan work beautifully for desserts.

Melt the butter and chocolate together in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or microwave in short bursts). Stir until smooth.

Whisk in sugars, then add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.

Sift in flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Fold gently until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.

Pour half the batter into your lined baking dish. Drizzle a few tablespoons of caramel over, then pour the remaining batter on top and swirl lightly.

Place in the smoker and cook for 1 to 1½ hours, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).

Cool completely, then drizzle with warm caramel and sprinkle generously with bacon salt.

Slice, serve, and watch them disappear!

Tips for Making the Best Smoked Brownies with Caramel and Bacon Salt

DIY Bacon Salt: Finely chop 2-3 crispy bacon strips and mix with 1 tablespoon flaky sea salt. Let it dry on a paper towel before storing in an airtight container.

Caramel Shortcut: Store-bought caramel works just fine, but if you’re feeling fancy, a homemade salted caramel sauce takes these to the next level.

Smoke Gently: Too much smoke can make the brownies bitter. Use a mild wood and avoid over-smoking.

Don’t Overbake: They’ll continue to cook slightly after being removed from the smoker, so aim for slightly underdone.

Make Ahead Friendly: These taste even better the next day after the flavors have mingled. Store them covered at room temperature or chilled.

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “These brownies were OUTRAGEOUS. The caramel drip and bacon salt made them feel like something from a fancy dessert bar. Will definitely be making again!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Loved the flavor, but mine came out a little too smoky. Next time I’ll reduce the wood chips. Otherwise amazing!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My picky teenager asked for seconds—and that never happens! Thank you for the recipe!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Really unique! I used boxed brownies and added the caramel and bacon salt, and it still turned out incredible.”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Hands down the best brownies I’ve ever made. Perfect balance of gooey, sweet, salty, and smoky!”

Printable Recipe

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