Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love are an absolute delight that brings together the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and luscious caramel. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these bars never fail to impress and satisfy sweet cravings. I love making them when friends come over or for a cozy movie night—they always disappear faster than I can slice them!

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, you’ll find joy in creating these gooey treats. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookie bars ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the gooey caramel and chocolate combination.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These bars are perfect for preparing in advance—just store them in an airtight container!
• Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to switch up the chocolate type or add nuts for extra texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather these simple, wholesome ingredients that make our Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars so special. You might already have some of these in your pantry!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup Salted Butter (can substitute with unsalted butter for less salt)
• 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (packed)
• ½ cup Granulated White Sugar
• 2 Large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (opt for pure vanilla for more intensity)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (reduce to ¾ teaspoons if using table salt)
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 2½ cups All-Purpose Flour (swap with a gluten-free flour blend if needed)

For the Caramel Layer

• 1 14-ounce can Sweetened Condensed Milk (no direct substitute available)
• 10 ounces Soft Caramels (unwrapped; homemade caramel works as a substitute)

For the Chocolate Layer

• 2 cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (feel free to swap with dark or milk chocolate)
• 1 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt (regular salt can be used, but avoid coarse salt)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Mix Up the Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips or even white chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Try Different Extracts: Experiment by adding almond extract along with vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.
• Incorporate Dried Fruit: A handful of dried cranberries or cherries can add a delightful tartness.

How to Make Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step ensures your cookie bars bake evenly and release easily after cooling.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the salted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated white sugar until smooth. The mixture should be fluffy and well-combined; this helps create that chewy texture we all love!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures they incorporate well into your dough, contributing richness to each bite.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, kosher salt, and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookie bars soft and gooey!

Step 5: Layer Up!

Spread half of the cookie dough into your prepared pan. Next, layer with sweetened condensed milk and unwrapped caramels evenly across the surface. Pour on remaining dough carefully, covering as much of the caramel as possible.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes until golden brown on top. Letting them cool slightly before slicing will make cutting easier—and trust me, it’s worth waiting to let those flavors meld!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these amazing Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love

Baking can be a joy, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure your cookie bars turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them incorporate more easily, resulting in a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep your bars soft and gooey.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can enhance the flavors and improve the bar’s structure.
• Check for doneness: The edges should be golden brown while the center looks slightly underbaked; it will continue to cook as it cools, so don’t overbake!
• Let them cool completely: Allowing your bars to cool before slicing helps them set properly, making them easier to cut and enjoy without falling apart.

How to Serve Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars You’ll Love

Presenting your delicious cookie bars in a charming way can make all the difference! Here are some ideas on how to serve them that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Flaked sea salt: A sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top enhances the flavor profile and gives a beautiful finishing touch.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some extra chocolate chips and drizzle on top for an elegant look that adds even more chocolatey goodness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, gooey cookie bars, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the richness of the bars.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, whip up some coconut cream. Its light sweetness balances the intensity of the caramel and chocolate.
• Coffee or Tea: Offer a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea alongside your dessert. The warmth and subtle flavors provide a comforting experience that rounds out your dessert beautifully.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert experience that everyone will love! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating them to maintain their gooey texture.

Freezing

• Cut the cookie bars into squares and allow them to cool completely.
• Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label them with the date!

Reheating

• To enjoy them warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookie bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual squares for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

If you’re curious about these delightful dessert bars, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping them gooey.

What makes Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars so special?

The combination of rich chocolate chips with creamy caramel creates an irresistible texture that is both chewy and gooey. The sprinkle of flaked sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully!

How do I prevent my Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars from becoming too hard?

To keep your bars deliciously soft and gooey, make sure not to overbake them. They should be slightly underbaked when you remove them from the oven, as they will continue to cook while cooling.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference. Each type will add its unique flavor profile to your cookie bars.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars! They’re not only easy to whip up but also bring a smile with every delicious bite. Whether it’s a family gathering or just a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations – I’d love to hear how they turned out!