Salted Caramel Bars

Introduction

Salted Caramel Bars combine the rich, buttery flavor of homemade caramel with a perfect balance of salt to create an indulgent, irresistible treat. These bars have a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a luscious, gooey caramel layer, and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt. Each bite is a perfect blend of sweet and salty, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

I first made these bars when I was in the mood for something decadent, and they quickly became a go-to dessert. The aroma of caramelizing sugar in the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water, and the combination of textures—from the crisp crust to the smooth caramel—makes these bars truly special.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet indulgence, these salted caramel bars are bound to become a new favorite. The sweet and salty contrast is simply irresistible, and they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Perfect for:

• Holiday baking
• Family gatherings
• Gift-giving
• Potlucks
• Dessert lovers

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Bars

Here’s why Salted Caramel Bars will become your new go-to dessert:

• Buttery Shortbread Crust: The cookie-like base is rich, buttery, and perfectly complements the gooey caramel topping.
• Homemade Caramel: The caramel layer is made from scratch, providing a rich, deep flavor that store-bought alternatives can’t match.
• Sweet and Salty: The sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness of the caramel while adding a satisfying salty contrast.
• Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients, this recipe comes together easily, requiring only simple steps to create a decadent dessert.
• Great for Sharing: These bars are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or as a gift, as they cut into perfect squares.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes for crust, 10-15 minutes for caramel
• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 34g, Fat: 16g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Salted Caramel Bars:

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling

Ingredient Highlights

• Unsalted Butter: Butter is key in both the crust and caramel, providing a rich, smooth texture and flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a deep, molasses-like flavor to the caramel, making it richer than regular white sugar.
• Sea Salt: A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the caramel bars enhances the sweet flavor and provides a savory contrast that makes each bite addictive.
• Heavy Cream: The heavy cream in the caramel ensures a smooth, rich texture and a luscious mouthfeel.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Salted Caramel Bars:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal of the bars.
2. Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, and mix until just combined, forming a dough.
3. Press the Crust Into the Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure the edges are smooth.
4. Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the caramel.

Prepare the Caramel:

5. Cook the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and stir until combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add the Cream and Vanilla: Carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly (it may bubble up). Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the caramel thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and 1 teaspoon of sea salt.
7. Pour the Caramel Over the Crust: Immediately pour the warm caramel over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Finish and Serve:

8. Cool the Bars: Let the caramel bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the caramel to firm up.
9. Sprinkle with Sea Salt: Once the bars are chilled and set, sprinkle the top with a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor and a beautiful finish.
10. Cut and Serve: Cut into 16 squares and serve. Enjoy the perfect balance of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and a salty kick!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Bars

Salted Caramel Bars are a versatile treat that can be served in many ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these bars with your favorite hot beverage for a comforting afternoon treat.
• As Part of a Dessert Table: These bars are a great addition to any dessert table, pairing beautifully with other sweet treats.
• Gift-Giving: Package these bars in a cute box or tin to give as a sweet, homemade gift for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
• For Special Occasions: These bars are perfect for celebrations, whether it’s a family gathering, party, or potluck.

Additional Tips for Salted Caramel Bars

Here are some tips to ensure your Salted Caramel Bars are perfect every time:

• Use Room Temperature Butter: For the crust and caramel, ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy blending and a smooth texture.
• Be Careful with the Caramel: Watch the caramel closely while it’s simmering to avoid burning. Stir constantly and don’t let it boil too aggressively.
• Chill the Bars: Allow the caramel bars to cool and set fully in the fridge to make them easier to cut and ensure the caramel is firm.
• Cut Bars When Fully Cooled: These bars will be much easier to cut once they’ve cooled completely. Use a sharp knife to cut them into even squares.
• Adjust Salt to Taste: If you prefer a more intense salty flavor, feel free to sprinkle more sea salt on top before serving.
• Store Properly: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Recipe Variations for Salted Caramel Bars

Here are 5 variations you can try for Salted Caramel Bars:

• Chocolate-Covered Salted Caramel Bars: After the caramel sets, melt some chocolate and pour it over the bars for a decadent chocolate-covered treat.
• Nutty Salted Caramel Bars: Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer for extra crunch and flavor.
• Spiced Salted Caramel Bars: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel for a spicy twist.
• Vegan Salted Caramel Bars: Use dairy-free butter and coconut cream for a vegan version of the caramel, and substitute a plant-based shortbread crust.
• Sea Salt and Pretzel Caramel Bars: Add crushed pretzels to the shortbread crust for an extra salty, crunchy texture.

Freezing and Storage for Salted Caramel Bars

• Freezing: These bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover caramel bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Refrigeration will extend their freshness for up to 2 weeks.

Special Equipment for Salted Caramel Bars

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Salted Caramel Bars easier:

• Electric Mixer: A hand or stand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar for the crust quick and easy.
• Baking Pan: An 8×8-inch square baking pan works best for these bars.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Parchment paper ensures easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Saucepan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan is perfect for making the caramel without burning it.
• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into neat squares after they’ve set.
• Cooling Rack: A cooling rack allows the caramel bars to cool evenly, preventing them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Salted Caramel Bars

1. Can I use store-bought caramel for these bars?
   While homemade caramel adds the best flavor and texture, you can use store-bought caramel if you’re short on time. Just warm it up slightly before pouring it over the crust.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make these bars up to 2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the crust.
4. How do I know when the caramel is done?
   The caramel should be thickened and glossy. If you’re unsure, you can use a candy thermometer to check that it reaches about 240°F (115°C) for the soft-ball stage.
5. Can I add chocolate to the caramel layer?
   Yes, you can add a layer of melted chocolate over the caramel for a richer, more decadent treat.

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Conclusion

Salted Caramel Bars are the ultimate indulgence, offering the perfect mix of rich sweetness and savory saltiness. With a buttery shortbread base, luscious caramel filling, and a sprinkle of sea salt, each bite is a heavenly blend of flavors and textures.

This simple yet elegant recipe is sure to impress, whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself to something sweet. These bars are easy to make and even easier to love, making them a must-try for anyone who enjoys a decadent dessert.

If you make these Salted Caramel Bars, be sure to snap a photo and share it on social media—don’t forget to tag me! I’d love to see your tasty creations. Happy baking!