The first words out of my hubby's mouth once he tried them: "O.M.G."

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, blend the melted butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix.
5. Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the batter, and then dollop the remaining batter on top, creating a swirl effect with caramel.
6. Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly across the top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Do not overbake, as the brownies will continue to set as they cool.
8. Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares.
Variations & Tips:
- For a homemade touch, consider making your own caramel sauce; it can add an extra layer of depth and flavor.
- If you're looking to add more texture, try folding a half cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the batter.
- For an extra chocolate kick, replace the semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips, or for a sweeter variation, use milk chocolate chips.
- To make these brownies a little fancier, sprinkle a bit of flaked sea salt on top after baking.
- Remember that the key to fudgy brownies is not to overbake them. Keep an eye on your oven and test them towards the earlier end of the baking range.