Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. These luscious bars combine the rich, buttery flavor of a shortbread crust with gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt, creating a harmony of flavors that is irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress at a family gathering or a cozy treat to enjoy while curled up on the couch, these bars have you covered.
When you bite into these Salted Caramel Butter Bars, the blend of textures and flavors will keep you coming back for more. Imagine a crispy bottom layer, a smooth caramel filling, and a crumbly topping. This delightful treat is perfect for celebrations, weekend baking projects, or a comforting weeknight dessert.
Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang 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.
- Press half to two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan and set the remaining dough aside for the topping. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- 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 and sprinkle the top with sea salt.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer and do not press down—just sprinkle 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.
- 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.
Notes
What Makes Salted Caramel Butter Bars Special
The beauty of Salted Caramel Butter Bars lies in their simplicity and flavor depth. Made with staple ingredients, they attract even the most indifferent dessert lovers. Here are a few irresistible reasons to give this recipe a try:
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just a few steps, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels. No complicated techniques here—just straightforward mixing and baking.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family reunion, holiday gathering, or a cozy night in, these bars fit seamlessly into any event. They also make great gifts when packaged in a lovely box.
- Kid-Approved: Kids will love the flavor and texture. Enlist their help to pour the caramel or crumble the topping for some family fun in the kitchen.
“These bars are pure magic! I made them for a potluck, and they disappeared in minutes. A perfect blend of salty and sweet.” — Jessica, a satisfied baker.
Preparing Salted Caramel Butter Bars: Tasty & Irresistible
Making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Let’s breakdown the steps to set you up for success!
Gather These Items
Before diving into the baking process, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 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)
Feel free to make substitutions! For a dairy-free version, use a vegan butter option and coconut cream.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple directions for a delightful treat you’ll love:
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy lifting later.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 and sprinkle the top with sea salt.
- Add the Topping: Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer. Do not press it down—just sprinkle to create a rustic, buttery topping.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is set and lightly golden.
- 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
These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are delightful on their own, but a few serving suggestions can elevate your experience:
- With a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream on top. The melting ice cream pairs beautifully with the rich caramel.
- Drizzle with Chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds another layer of indulgence.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these bars with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your Salted Caramel Butter Bars fresh:
- Storage: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you plan to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually or in portions and place in a freezer-safe container.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to guarantee a smooth and creamy dough.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: The coarse sea salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel, so adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
- Chill for Clean Cuts: Chilling the bars before slicing helps achieve clean, beautiful squares.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with these variations:
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for a delicious crunch.
- Chocolate Variation: Swirl in melted chocolate with the caramel for a richer flavor profile.
- Flavor Infusions: Incorporate a hint of sea salt caramel instead of regular caramel for a gourmet touch.
FAQs
How long do these bars take to prepare?
The total time for making Salted Caramel Butter Bars is about 1 hour, including baking and cooling.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend to make them gluten-free.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought caramel sauce, but ensure it’s thick enough to layer. Adjust the amount of heavy cream accordingly.
For more delightful dessert recipes, check out our high protein bagels and the mini bento cake recipe.
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