Ingredients:

  • 1 box (18-20 oz) brownie mix
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for classic fudgy)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for classic fudgy)
  • 1/2 cup prepared caramel sauce (for salted caramel)
  • 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for salted caramel)
  • 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder (for chocolate espresso)
  • 1/4 cup hot water (for chocolate espresso)
  • 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (for chocolate espresso)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour, or line with parchment paper, a 9x13 inch baking pan.
  2. Decide which brownie variation you'll make. Gather the specific ingredients for that variation.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, melted butter, milk, and eggs. Mix until just combined. Don't overmix!
  4. Customize the batter: Classic Fudgy - stir in flour and vegetable oil; Salted Caramel - swirl in caramel sauce; Chocolate Espresso - dissolve espresso powder in hot water, add to batter, fold in chocolate chips.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. For Salted Caramel, sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking.
  6. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don't overbake!
  7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.