Salted Caramel Butter Bars: Tasty & Irresistible
Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the ultimate indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. These delectable treats combine a buttery cookie base with a luxurious layer of rich caramel, all topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty balance. They are perfect for dessert tables, potlucks, or simply as a delightful afternoon snack with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Why Make This Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious dessert that combines ease and flavor, then Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the right choice for you. These bars are incredibly easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that has the perfect chewy texture and a melt-in-your-mouth caramel layer. Plus, the contrasting flavors of sweet and salty make these bars utterly irresistible, making them a favorite for any occasion.
How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Making Salted Caramel Butter Bars can be a fun and rewarding kitchen experience. Follow these easy steps for a delightful dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (2 cups) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (14 oz) bag of caramel candies, unwrapped (or 2 cups soft caramel bits)
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ to 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (adjust to taste)
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and mix to combine. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a thick dough forms.
Step 3: Press and Bake the Bottom Layer
Press half to two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Set the remaining dough aside for the topping. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 4: Prepare the Caramel
While the crust is baking, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove. Stir frequently until smooth and fully combined.
Step 5: Layer the Caramel
Once the bottom layer is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the warm caramel over the crust. Spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with sea salt.
Step 6: Add the Topping
Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the caramel layer. Don’t press it down—just sprinkle it to create a rustic, buttery topping.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For cleaner slices, chill in the fridge for 1 hour after cooling. Use the parchment overhang to lift and slice cleanly.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars at room temperature, either plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of warm caramel sauce on top just before serving. They can also be garnished with a sprinkle of sea salt for that extra flair.
How to Store Salted Caramel Butter Bars
To store your Salted Caramel Butter Bars, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they will last for up to a week. For even longer preservation, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
Tips to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars
- Butter Temperature: Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for the best mixing results. This will help achieve that light and fluffy texture.
- Caramel Melting: Be patient while melting the caramel; stirring frequently will prevent it from burning.
- Chill for Clean Cuts: For perfectly sliced bars, consider chilling them in the fridge as recommended. This will help the caramel firm up a little more, making it easier to cut through without mess.
Variation
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add chocolate chips to the dough before baking for a chocolatey twist. Alternatively, try switching up the toppings by adding chopped nuts, or even different flavors of caramel for a unique take on this classic treat.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. The candies create a thicker layer.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and your bars will still turn out delicious.
Can I add spices to the dough for extra flavor?
Definitely! A pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract can enhance the flavor profile of your Salted Caramel Butter Bars.
Whip up a batch of these Salted Caramel Butter Bars today, and prepare to be dazzled by their rich flavor and delightful texture. Enjoy!
Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Ingredients
Base and Topping
- 1 pound unsalted butter, at room temperature Ensure butter is at room temperature for best mixing results.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1.5 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour blend.
Caramel Layer
- 14 oz bag of caramel candies, unwrapped (or 2 cups soft caramel bits) You may also use store-bought caramel sauce; however, it may alter the texture.
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt Adjust to taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy lifting later.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla and mix to combine. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a thick dough forms.
Baking Base
- Press half to two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Set the remaining dough aside for the topping.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Caramel Layer
- While the crust is baking, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream together in a microwave-safe bowl or over low heat on the stove. Stir frequently until smooth and fully combined.
- Once the bottom layer is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the warm caramel over the crust. Spread evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the top with sea salt.
Topping and Final Bake
- Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the caramel layer. Don’t press it down—just sprinkle it to create a rustic, buttery topping.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
Cooling and Serving
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. For cleaner slices, chill in the fridge for 1 hour after cooling. Use the parchment overhang to lift and slice cleanly.
- Serve at room temperature, either plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle a bit of warm caramel sauce on top just before serving and garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
