Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Published:

by Clara Harper

Leave a Comment

The aroma of freshly baked Salted Caramel Butter Bars wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: golden brown edges giving way to a gooey center that’s practically winking at you with its buttery sweetness. You can almost hear the angels singing as you take that first bite—sweetness mingling with the perfect touch of saltiness.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Jump to:

These bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience wrapped in a delicious package. I remember the first time I baked them for a family gathering. My relatives were literally fighting over the last piece like it was the final slice of pizza at a party. Now, every holiday dinner feels incomplete without them!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • The simplicity of these salted caramel butter bars makes them an easy choice for any baker.
  • Their rich flavor profile combines sweetness with just the right amount of saltiness.
  • Visually appealing with their golden crust and gooey center, they are sure to impress guests.
  • Perfect for any occasion—from casual gatherings to special celebrations—they always steal the show!

I once brought these bars to a potluck and witnessed my cousin do a happy dance upon tasting them. It was truly a moment for the history books!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor; it’s essential in creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  • Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works well here; both add moisture and depth to the bars.
  • Granulated Sugar: Just a touch of granulated sugar balances the molasses flavors from brown sugar.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour will give the bars structure; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
  • Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors; don’t skip this step if you want that salted caramel goodness!
  • Vanilla Extract: Use pure vanilla extract for an added layer of flavor; it makes everything taste better!
  • Caramel Sauce: Store-bought is fine if you’re short on time; just ensure it’s thick and rich.
  • Sea Salt Flakes: These finish off your bars beautifully with bursts of saltiness that complement the sweetness perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Creaming Time: In a mixing bowl, combine unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes should do! The mixture should look pale and airy.
Add the Good Stuff: Mix in vanilla extract followed by eggs one at a time. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix or your bars might turn out dense!
Dry Ingredients Unite: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients—fold gently until well incorporated.
Spread It Out: Pour half of your batter into the prepared baking pan. Smooth it out evenly using a spatula, ensuring every corner gets love.
Layer That Caramel: Drizzle half of your caramel sauce over the batter before spreading out the remaining batter on top. Swirl it gently with a knife—it’s okay if some caramel peeks through!
Bake Away: Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until edges turn golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean (with some gooey bits!).
Finish With Flair: Once baked, immediately drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the warm bars and sprinkle sea salt flakes generously on top while still warm.

Let cool completely before cutting into squares—if you can resist!

Now you have made delightful Salted Caramel Butter Bars destined to be your new favorite treat! Enjoy them at parties or keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge).

You Must Know: Salted caramel butter bars are a delightful treat that combines sweet and salty flavors. Use high-quality butter for a rich taste that melts in your mouth. The texture should be chewy yet firm, creating a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making the crust first, then prepare the caramel while it cools. This way, everything comes together seamlessly.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different toppings like crushed nuts or chocolate drizzle. These additions can take your salted caramel butter bars to the next level.

Storing & Reheating

Store your salted caramel butter bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay delicious for up to five days and don’t require reheating.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To ensure perfect salted caramel, watch the sugar closely as it melts.
  • Stir constantly for even melting and avoid burning.
  • Cool the caramel slightly before pouring it over the crust to maintain layers and prevent mixing.

The first time I made these salted caramel butter bars, my friends devoured them within minutes. Their smiles and happy faces made me realize I had created something special!

FAQs

FAQ

What is the best way to cut salted caramel butter bars?

To cut them neatly, use a sharp knife and clean it between cuts.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Using margarine may alter the flavor; stick with real butter for best results.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Simply swap regular flour with a gluten-free blend for delicious results.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Salted Caramel Butter Bars


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Sophie
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Description

Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a heavenly dessert that combines buttery sweetness with a hint of salt, creating the ultimate indulgence for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce
  • Sea salt flakes for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking pan.
  2. In a bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add vanilla extract and eggs one at a time, mixing until just combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour and salt; gradually fold into the wet mixture until incorporated.
  5. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over it, then spread the remaining batter on top.
  6. Swirl the remaining caramel sauce into the batter.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are golden and a toothpick comes out clean with some gooey bits.
  8. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top while warm; sprinkle sea salt flakes. Allow to cool completely before cutting.

Notes

  • For added texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts or chocolate chips before baking. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Next Recipe

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star