Step 1: Preheat the Oven - Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Brownie Batter - In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of white sugar and 2 tablespoons of butter. Mix until well combined. Add in 1 cup of heavy cream plus 2 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients - In a separate bowl, sift together your favorite brownie mix or combine flour, cocoa powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your brownies fudgy.
Step 4: Bake the Brownies - Pour the brownie batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Step 5: Make the Caramel Sauce - In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup, and 1 ½ cups of white sugar over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves. Let it boil without stirring until it turns a golden amber color. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream plus 2 tablespoons and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up.
Step 6: Assemble the Brownies - Once the brownies have cooled for about 10 minutes, pour the caramel sauce over the top. Sprinkle with chopped pecans for that classic turtle topping.
Step 7: Drizzle with Chocolate (Optional) - For an extra indulgent touch, melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the caramel and pecans. Let the brownies cool completely before cutting them into squares.
