The sweet smell of melted butter and sugar wafts through the air as these salted caramel butter bars bake. Each decadent bite is a blissful experience that feels like a warm hug from your favorite dessert. Imagine taking a bite and experiencing the perfect blend of creamy butter with a hint of saltiness that dances on your tongue. It’s a treat that makes you feel as if you’re floating on a cloud made entirely of sweetness.
These salted caramel butter bars hold a special place in my heart; they remind me of family gatherings where laughter and sugary goodness filled the room. We gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting our turn to indulge in these delightful creations. The anticipation built as we shared stories and memories over plates piled high with these irresistible treats. Trust me; this recipe will become your go-to for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These salted caramel butter bars are incredibly easy to prepare with just a few simple ingredients
- Their rich flavor profile combines the sweetness of caramel with a touch of salt for balance
- Each bar is visually appealing, with layers of golden caramel resting atop buttery goodness
- Perfect for parties or cozy nights at home; they never fail to impress!
Every time I make these salted caramel butter bars, my friends can’t help but rave about them—one even declared them “life-changing” during our last get-together!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and control over salt levels.
- Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar adds moisture and richness; be sure it’s packed tightly for accurate measurement.
- Granulated Sugar: This provides structure and sweetness; don’t skip it!
- All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour works best here; it gives the bars their classic texture while holding everything together.
- Salt: Sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully—don’t be shy about sprinkling some on top!
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Caramel Sauce: Store-bought or homemade works well; just ensure it’s smooth and luscious.
- Chocolate Chips (optional): For an extra treat, sprinkle chocolate chips into the batter before baking!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8 inch baking dish by lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Create the Base: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this takes about 4-5 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix in all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt until combined; don’t overmix! Your dough should be crumbly yet cohesive.
Press into Pan: Take two-thirds of the dough mixture and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish—this will serve as the base layer.
Add Caramel Layer: Pour warm caramel sauce over the pressed dough layer; spread it evenly using a spatula to ensure every bite is deliciously gooey.
Crumble Topping : Crumble the remaining dough mixture on top of the caramel layer evenly; some gaps are okay—it creates texture!
Bake Away!: Place in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden brown around the edges. Let cool completely before slicing into squares—try not to eat them all at once!
Enjoy your sweet creations straight from the oven or let them sit for a while so they can develop even more flavor!
These salted caramel butter bars are not only a delightful treat but also an excellent way to share joy with family and friends during any gathering or simply when indulging alone after a long day!
You Must Know
- These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a sweet treat that balances gooeyness with a hint of saltiness
- Their buttery texture and rich flavor will make you the star of any gathering
- Just remember to let them cool before slicing for the cleanest cuts!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your crust, then mix the caramel filling while it bakes. This sequence ensures everything is fresh and perfectly timed for delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the chocolate chips with nuts or dried fruits for a unique twist. You can also sprinkle a bit more sea salt on top for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ingredients for the best results; stale butter can ruin your bars
- Watch the baking time closely; overbaking leads to dry bars
- Lastly, allow complete cooling before cutting; this helps maintain their shape and texture
My best friend once told me these Salted Caramel Butter Bars were life-changing after I brought them to her birthday party. It was such a sweet moment—literally!
FAQ
What makes Salted Caramel Butter Bars different from regular caramel bars?
The addition of butter creates a rich, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible.
Can I use low-fat butter in this recipe?
Using low-fat butter may alter the texture, resulting in less gooeyness and richness.
How do I know when my Salted Caramel Butter Bars are done baking?
They should be lightly golden on top and set around the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
Salted Caramel Butter Bars
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x
Description
Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a luscious dessert featuring a buttery base topped with gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in flour and sea salt until just combined; the dough should remain crumbly.
- Press two-thirds of the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish as the base layer.
- Pour warm caramel sauce over the base layer, spreading it evenly.
- Crumble the remaining dough on top of the caramel layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown around the edges. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For added texture, sprinkle chocolate chips or nuts into the batter.
- Let cool fully before cutting for cleaner squares.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg