Salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars offer a delightful combination of flavors that elevate the classic cookie experience. You get the rich taste of chocolate chips, the gooey sweetness of caramel, and a hint of salt that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, whether you’re indulging at home or impressing friends at a gathering, these bars are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why We Love This Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
The beauty of salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars lies in their unmatched flavor profile. The combination of sweet and salty creates a harmonious balance that is hard to resist. Each bar is chewy, soft, and packed with chocolate chips, making them a universal favorite. The gooey caramel adds richness and depth, creating layers of flavor that delight your taste buds. They are easy to make and perfect for slicing into squares, which makes serving them a breeze. Plus, they satisfy both cookie lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike. You can also customize them by adding nuts or even more chocolate, ensuring that they can cater to various preferences.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt, for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Spread half of the dough into the prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the first layer of dough, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Spoon the remaining dough over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly. It’s okay if some caramel shows through; it adds to the texture.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top layer of dough.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. The center may look slightly underbaked, but it will continue to set as it cools.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Serving salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars is as simple as slicing and sharing. You can serve them warm or at room temperature. If you want to take them to the next level, try adding a scoop of your favorite ice cream on the side. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream complements the warm, gooey bars beautifully. Garnishing with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a sprinkle of flaky salt gives a professional touch to your presentation. For gatherings, you can cut them into smaller squares to make them easy for guests to grab. Placing them on a decorative platter can make a delightful centerpiece for any dessert table, making it a hit at birthdays, holidays, or any festive occasion.
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Timing and temperature are critical to achieving the perfect texture for your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars. Make sure to fully cream the butter and sugars to incorporate air into the dough; this ensures lightness. For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips. You can even mix dark and milk chocolate for added complexity. When spreading the dough in the pan, dampen your hands to prevent sticking; this makes it easier to handle. To check for doneness, look for a golden-brown edge and a slightly underbaked center. Remember that the bars will firm up as they cool. Allowing them to cool completely in the pan is vital; this helps them set properly and makes cutting much easier. Lastly, adding flaky sea salt not only enhances flavor but also gives your bars an eye-catching finish.
How to Store Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
To keep your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars fresh, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them, where they can last about a week. For even longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
Variations of Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
The versatility of salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars allows for endless variations. One popular option is to add nuts; chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch. You might also want to try using different types of chocolate—white chocolate or butterscotch chips can give a unique twist to your bars. For an extra decadent touch, consider mixing in a layer of peanut butter or hazelnut spread along with the caramel. If you’re feeling adventurous, experiment with flavor extracts like almond or coffee to infuse your bars with different tastes. Another fun idea is to mix in some crushed pretzels or toffee bits to add additional texture and flavor. Each variation can create a different experience while maintaining the delightful combination of flavors.
FAQ about Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
What makes salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars so special?
The combination of sweet caramel, rich chocolate, and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a unique flavor that delights your taste buds and makes them irresistible.
Can I make these cookie bars in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance. They store well at room temperature for a few days or can be refrigerated for up to a week.
What can I serve with salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars?
They pair wonderfully with ice cream, whipped cream, or even a cup of coffee for a delightful dessert experience.
Can I use a different type of caramel?
Absolutely! You can use homemade caramel, store-bought sauce, or even try flavored variations to elevate your bars even further.
How do I ensure my cookie bars don’t get too dry?
To prevent dryness, check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time, and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring a soft, chewy texture.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the cookie base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
For the caramel layer
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and sea salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Assembly
- Spread half of the dough into the prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly into the bottom.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the first layer of dough, spreading it gently to cover the surface.
- Spoon the remaining dough over the caramel layer, spreading it out evenly. It’s okay if some caramel shows through.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top layer of dough.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges. The center may look slightly underbaked.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares and serving.
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