Easy Caramel Cookie Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Easy Caramel Cookie Bars combine a buttery cookie base with a smooth, rich caramel layer and a hint of sea salt on top. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, they are simple to make and delightful to share.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 0.75 cup granulated sugar
• 1 package soft caramel candies (unwrap individually)
• 0.25 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 tsp sea salt (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture and stir until combined. Press half of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Step 4: Bake the crust for 10–12 minutes until it turns lightly golden and is set.
5. Step 5: While the crust is baking, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream over low heat, stirring frequently until smooth.
6. Step 6: Pour the melted caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust. Crumble the remaining dough on top, then sprinkle with sea salt.
7. Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
8. Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares to serve.

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking the second time.
• If you prefer a less sweet caramel flavor, reduce the sugar slightly in the dough or use half the sea salt amount.
• Use a parchment paper lining in the baking pan for easier removal and cleaner cuts.

Storage

Store the caramel cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to a week. To enjoy, bring to room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, gooey texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I substitute the soft caramel candies with homemade caramel?

Yes, homemade caramel can be used if it has a similar soft consistency. Just ensure it melts smoothly with the heavy cream before pouring over the crust.

What is the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Make sure the bars are completely cool before cutting. For cleaner edges, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Easy Caramel Cookie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 78 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x

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Description

Delightfully rich and buttery, these Easy Caramel Cookie Bars combine a tender cookie crust with a luscious, creamy caramel layer, finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect sweet and salty balance. Perfect as a dessert or a sweet snack, these bars are simple to prepare and bake, resulting in a deliciously chewy and decadent treat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Base

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 0.75 cup granulated sugar

Caramel Layer

• 1 package soft caramel candies, unwrapped
• 0.25 cup heavy cream

Topping

• 0.5 tsp sea salt, for sprinkling on top

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Instructions

1. Preparation Steps: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, creating the base for your cookie crust.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, stirring gently until fully incorporated. Take half of this dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
4. Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden and is set firmly.
5. Melt Caramel Mixture: While the crust is baking, combine the unwrapped soft caramel candies with the heavy cream in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring frequently until the caramel is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
6. Assemble Layers: Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over it. Crumble the remaining half of the cookie dough over the caramel layer to create a crumbly topping, then sprinkle the sea salt evenly over the top.
7. Final Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and set.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan to let the caramel layer firm up, then cut into squares or bars for serving.

Notes

• Be sure to use soft caramel candies for easy melting and a smooth caramel layer.
• Letting the bars cool completely before cutting ensures cleaner slices and prevents caramel from oozing out.
• For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the caramel mixture.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Sprinkling sea salt enhances the caramel flavor but can be omitted if preferred.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 27 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Caramel Cookie Bars, Easy Dessert Bars, Caramel Bars, Cookie Bars, Sweet Snack, Homemade Caramel Bars