Welcome, cookie lovers and dessert enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a mouth-watering dessert that will have you craving seconds (and maybe even thirds). These Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of gooey chocolate, rich caramel, and just the right amount of saltiness to create a balanced, irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a fan of the rich, buttery caramel or the classic chocolate chip cookie, this recipe is a dream come true! Ready to treat yourself to a delicious, decadent dessert? Let’s get started!
Introduction
What makes Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars so special? Combining the nostalgic goodness of chocolate chip cookies with the modern twist of salted caramel, this recipe delivers a dessert that’s sweet, salty, and utterly irresistible. The cookie base is soft and chewy, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a luscious layer of homemade salted caramel that adds an unforgettable richness. The result is a dessert that’s comfort food at its finest—ideal for sharing, gifting, or enjoying as a solo indulgence!
This recipe not only offers the joy of classic homemade cookies but also introduces a layer of sophistication with the salted caramel. The harmonious balance of flavors creates a bar that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. So whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this is a dessert you’ll want to add to your repertoire.
Ingredients for Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Feel free to adjust the recipe based on dietary needs or preferences.
Cookie Base Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the bars.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise and achieve the perfect texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – The base fat for the cookie, providing moisture and richness.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a deep, molasses-like flavor and chewiness to the bars.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Balances the flavor and creates a crisp top.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, rich aroma.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
- 2 cups chocolate chips – Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for that classic cookie flavor.
Salted Caramel Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar – The base for the caramel sauce.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces – Adds richness and creaminess to the caramel.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature – Creates a smooth and silky caramel.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – The key ingredient that enhances the sweetness and flavor of the caramel.
Optional substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour can be substituted for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan butter and plant-based cream can be used to create a dairy-free version.
How to Make Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Step by Step
Let’s dive into the process of making these delightful Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Follow these simple steps to create a dessert everyone will love!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake the Cookie Base
Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie base to cool slightly before adding the caramel layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Salted Caramel
While the cookie base is cooling, it’s time to make the salted caramel. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. As the sugar melts, it will turn into a golden amber color. Once fully melted, add the butter and continue to stir until fully combined. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the caramel to boil for 1 minute, then remove it from heat. Stir in sea salt, and let the caramel cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Once the cookie base has cooled slightly and the caramel is warm (not hot), pour the salted caramel over the cookie base, spreading it evenly. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares.
Helpful Tips for Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Want to take your cookie bars to the next level? Here are some tips to make them even better:
- Chill the dough before baking if you want a chewier texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, substitute 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with chopped toffee or caramel chips.
Cooking Tips for the Best Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Making the perfect cookie bars requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful cooking techniques:
- Monitor the caramel closely: Be sure to stir the sugar constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Don’t overbake the cookie base: It should be slightly undercooked in the center when you remove it from the oven. The residual heat will finish the baking.
- Cool the bars completely: Allow the caramel to fully set before slicing the bars for clean, perfect squares.
Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are perfect on their own, but here are a few suggestions for serving them:
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
- Serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or cocoa for a comforting treat.
- Drizzle with extra caramel sauce or a light dusting of sea salt to enhance the flavors.
Nutritional Information
While these bars are a delicious treat, it’s good to know their nutritional benefits. They offer a satisfying balance of carbohydrates and fats, which makes them a great dessert to enjoy in moderation.
Nutritional Information per Serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 220mg
Storage and Leftovers for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare with these cookie bars!), here’s how to store them:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: These bars will stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezer: Wrap the bars individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey treat!
4 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it’s a 1:1 substitute to ensure the texture stays consistent.
2. How can I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
If your caramel sets too hard, you can gently reheat it in the microwave or on the stove until it becomes smooth and pourable again.
3. Can I use store-bought caramel?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought salted caramel sauce works as a quick and easy substitute.
4. What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
Feel free to experiment with white chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
Related Recipes for Cheesesteak Pasta Lovers
Looking for more delicious treats? Check out these recipes for similar cookie bars and desserts:
Conclusion
These Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are everything you want in a dessert—sweet, salty, chewy, and absolutely indulgent. Whether you’re baking them for a party or enjoying them as a weekend treat, they’re sure to be a hit. Give them a try and let us know how they turned out for you! Don’t forget to share your personal variations in the comments below.
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Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
Description
Welcome, cookie lovers and dessert enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to introduce a mouth-watering dessert that will have you craving seconds (and maybe even thirds). These Homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the perfect blend of gooey chocolate, rich caramel, and just the right amount of saltiness to create a balanced, irresistible flavor. Whether you’re a fan of the rich, buttery caramel or the classic chocolate chip cookie, this recipe is a dream come true! Ready to treat yourself to a delicious, decadent dessert? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Cookie Base Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the bars.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bars rise and achieve the perfect texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel.
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – The base fat for the cookie, providing moisture and richness.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds a deep, molasses-like flavor and chewiness to the bars.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Balances the flavor and creates a crisp top.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, rich aroma.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
- 2 cups chocolate chips – Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips for that classic cookie flavor.
Salted Caramel Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar – The base for the caramel sauce.
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature, cut into pieces – Adds richness and creaminess to the caramel.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature – Creates a smooth and silky caramel.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt – The key ingredient that enhances the sweetness and flavor of the caramel.
Optional substitutions:
- Gluten-free flour can be substituted for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan butter and plant-based cream can be used to create a dairy-free version.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar, mixing until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 3: Bake the Cookie Base
Press the cookie dough evenly into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the cookie base to cool slightly before adding the caramel layer.
Step 4: Prepare the Salted Caramel
While the cookie base is cooling, it’s time to make the salted caramel. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 cup of sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. As the sugar melts, it will turn into a golden amber color. Once fully melted, add the butter and continue to stir until fully combined. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Allow the caramel to boil for 1 minute, then remove it from heat. Stir in sea salt, and let the caramel cool for a few minutes.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Once the cookie base has cooled slightly and the caramel is warm (not hot), pour the salted caramel over the cookie base, spreading it evenly. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Chill the dough before baking if you want a chewier texture.
- Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
- For a crunchier texture, substitute 1/2 cup of chocolate chips with chopped toffee or caramel chips.
