Delight in the perfect blend of sweet and salty with these Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Combining a chewy cookie base loaded with chocolate chips and a luscious layer of homemade salted caramel, this recipe offers a decadent treat that’s both comforting and irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a special dessert to share or a delicious way to treat yourself, these cookie bars are sure to satisfy.

Benefits

This recipe not only promises a delicious indulgence but also incorporates the joy of baking at home, which can be a therapeutic activity. The use of basic ingredients like flour, sugar, and butter means you’re able to control what goes into your desserts, avoiding preservatives found in store-bought sweets. Plus, the combination of chocolate and caramel provides a rich source of antioxidants and mood-enhancing compounds.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per bar
Servings: 12

Ingredients

Cookie Base:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups chocolate chips

Salted Caramel:

1 cup sugar
6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature, cut into pieces
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature

1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined. Add vanilla and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
Press the cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

While the cookie base is baking, make the caramel by melting sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once sugar is completely melted, add the butter and stir until melted.
Slowly drizzle in heavy cream while stirring. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in sea salt.
Allow cookie base to cool slightly, then pour the warm salted caramel over the top. Let set until firm.

Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Calories: 300 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45 g

Protein: 3 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g

Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3 g
Trans Fat: 0 g

Cholesterol: 31 mg
Sodium: 300 mg
Potassium: 75 mg

Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 30 g
Vitamin A: 10% of RDA

Vitamin C: 0.2%
Calcium: 20 mg
Iron: 1.1 mg

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these bars as they are, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat. These bars are best enjoyed slightly warmed, allowing the caramel layer to soften for the ultimate gooey experience.

Conclusion

Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a testament to the magic of home baking. From their rich flavor to their satisfying texture, these bars are a crowd-pleaser that brings the warmth of the kitchen into every bite. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is a must-try for any dessert enthusiast.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel? Yes, store-bought caramel can be used for convenience, though homemade provides a richer flavor.

How long do these bars keep? They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerated for 10 days.
Can I freeze these cookie bars? Absolutely! Freeze them for up to 3 months, tightly wrapped. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in the caramel? For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk, though the caramel will be less rich.