Step 1

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt.

Step 2

In another bowl, or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together 1/2 cup of the brown sugar and the butter until creamy. Stir in vanilla. Stir in 1/3 of the flour mixture, followed by 1/3 of the milk. Continue adding the flour and milk, making another 2 additions of each and beating well after each addition. Stir in the caramels. Spread the batter evenly into the bottom of a 4- to 5-quart slow cooker.

Step 3

Combine the remaining 1/2 cup of brown sugar and the boiling water and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Pour evenly over the batter.

Step 4

Cover and cook on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the blondie comes out clean. Serve topped with ice cream, if desired.