Introduction
Imagine a dessert that combines the sweetness of caramel with the richness of buttery goodness. These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are just that—decadent, chewy, and topped with a delightful sprinkle of sea salt that perfectly balances the sweetness. Each bite melts in your mouth, delivering a satisfying crunch from the golden edges and a luscious, creamy center. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a picnic in the park!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- Sea salt for topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 24 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure a non-stick finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
- Beat in the large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then stir in the vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined for a perfect, thick batter.
- Spread half of the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a nice base for your caramel layer.
- Next, drizzle the velvety caramel sauce over the batter, spreading it gently to cover as much of the base as possible.
- Drop spoonfuls of the remaining batter over the caramel layer, making sure to cover it as best as you can; this will ensure that each bite is a harmonious mix of flavors.
- Generously sprinkle sea salt over the top for that delightful contrast against the sweetness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the dish for a bit before cutting them into squares. This helps them set perfectly, making slicing much easier!
Notes or Tips
For a richer flavor, consider using a homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought. If you love more caramel, feel free to drizzle extra on top after baking! These bars store beautifully in an airtight container and taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Cooking Techniques
When creaming the butter and sugars, take your time to achieve a light, fluffy texture. This step is crucial for the bars’ overall texture. Also, be mindful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour; mixing just until combined helps keep your bars soft and chewy.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you do, you may want to reduce or omit the added sea salt on top since salted butter can enhance the overall saltiness.
How do I store the leftover bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week for a chilled treat!
Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering, offering a deliciously sweet and salty experience that everyone will love. So gather your ingredients and indulge in the warm, buttery, caramel goodness—you won’t regret it!