Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you’re looking for an indulgent treat to brighten your day, these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are just the ticket! These bars are a delightful combination of gooey caramel and rich chocolate that will have everyone smiling from ear to ear. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for more!

These bars not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring everyone together. They are simple to make and offer that delicious homemade touch we all cherish. So, let’s dive into the magic of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time!
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of chocolate and caramel.
• Perfect for sharing: Great for potlucks or as a sweet surprise for friends.
• Make ahead convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for a tasty treat later.
• Decadent flavor: The balance of sweet and salty makes every bite heavenly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these goodies, and you’ll be on your way to baking some amazing cookie bars!

For the Cookie Base

• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Layer

• One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• 10 ounces soft caramels (unwrapped) — about 40 caramels
• 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to get creative with flavors! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can give your cookie bars an extra crunch.
• Use different chocolates: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk or dark chocolate if you prefer.
• Mix in other candies: Add M&Ms or peanut butter chips for a fun twist!
• Try different extracts: Experiment with almond or hazelnut extract instead of vanilla for a unique flavor.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures even baking. While the oven heats up, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil and coat it liberally with cooking spray. This will help with easy removal later!

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine the butter and both sugars for about 2 minutes until fluffy. This creates air pockets in the dough, making your bars light and chewy! Then add the eggs, vanilla, salt, and baking soda; mix until smooth. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Finally, turn down the speed to low and gradually add in flour until mixed well. Stir in those delicious chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Press Dough into Pan

Now it’s time to create your base! Press three-quarters of the dough into the prepared pan evenly. This step forms a sturdy layer that will hold everything together.

Step 4: Melt Caramels

In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine sweetened condensed milk and unwrapped caramels. Stir frequently until melted and smooth. This gooey mixture adds that irresistible caramel layer everyone loves!

Step 5: Assemble Bars

Pour three-quarters of the melted caramel over your dough base in the pan. Then drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough evenly on top of the caramel layer—it doesn’t have to be perfect! Save any leftover caramel; it’s absolutely delightful drizzled over ice cream!

Step 6: Bake

Pop those bars into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes until just set in the center. Keep an eye on them; they should look golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Finish with Sea Salt

Once baked, sprinkle flaked sea salt over top for that perfect salty contrast against all that sweetness. Allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares—this helps set everything nicely.

Now you’ve got yourself some mouthwatering Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars ready to share (or keep all to yourself)! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Creating the perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is easier than you think, and with these tips, you’ll impress everyone around you!

• Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter blends better with sugars, yielding a lighter, fluffier texture in your bars.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the softness of the cookies, preventing them from becoming tough.
• Chill the Caramel Mixture: Allowing the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it over the dough helps prevent it from melting the cookie layers too much during baking.
• Add Extra Flaked Sea Salt: A sprinkle of flaked sea salt on top right after baking enhances the flavor contrast and brings out that delicious salted caramel taste.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Patience is key! Allowing the bars to cool fully before cutting will help them hold their shape and make serving easier.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These delightful bars can be served in various ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a dessert for your next gathering, here’s how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of this light and airy cream adds a lovely touch and complements the richness of the bars perfectly.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate on top elevates their appearance and adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a delightful crunch that pairs well with the soft texture of the bars.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the richness of the cookie bars while adding a refreshing element.
• Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a burst of color and natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the caramel.
• Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances flavors and makes for a comforting dessert experience, especially after dinner.
• Milk: Whether it’s dairy or a non-dairy alternative, milk is always a great accompaniment that helps wash down these sweet treats!

With these serving suggestions, your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars will not only taste amazing but look exquisite too! Enjoy your baking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in a sweet treat anytime. With simple storage options, you can enjoy these delicious bars throughout the week or even share them with friends and family!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
• If you’d like to maintain their gooey texture, let them come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Cut the cooled bars into individual pieces and wrap each one in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a bar from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
• You can warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds if desired.
• Enjoy your warm bar with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of leftover caramel sauce!

FAQs

If you’re curious about Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, check out these frequently asked questions!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?

Absolutely! While semi-sweet chocolate chips are fantastic, feel free to experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference!

How do I ensure my Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars stay chewy?

The key is to avoid overbaking them! Keep an eye on the baking time and take them out when the center is just set. This will help maintain that deliciously chewy texture.

Can I make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. This way, you can enjoy these delightful bars without gluten.

What can I do with leftover caramel?

Use any leftover caramel as a topping for ice cream, drizzled over pancakes, or mixed into coffee for a sweet twist!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars as I am! They bring together gooey caramel and rich chocolate flavors that are simply irresistible. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to delight. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!