Salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars are a delightful treat that blend the rich, comforting flavors of chocolate chip cookies with the indulgent sweetness of salted caramel. These bars capture the essence of both desserts in every bite, making them a perfect choice for any occasion, from a family gathering to a cozy night in. With a chewy texture and a wonderfully balanced flavor, they offer a satisfying and delicious indulgence.
Why We Love This Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
You will adore these salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars because they combine the best of two favorite desserts into one decadent treat. The combination of gooey chocolate chips and the rich, buttery undertones of salted caramel creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist. Each bar delivers a perfect chewiness that keeps you coming back for more. There’s something comforting about the chocolate and caramel duo, bringing nostalgia and warmth alongside the satisfaction of a freshly baked treat. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just yourself, these bars will consistently impress and satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce
- Sea salt flakes for topping
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chocolate chips to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread half of the cookie dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Press it down gently to create an even layer.
- Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the cookie dough, spreading it out gently but leaving some parts uncovered.
- Take the remaining cookie dough and dollop it over the caramel layer, using your hands to spread it out as evenly as possible. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly smooth.
- Drizzle the rest of the salted caramel sauce on top of the dolloped cookie dough. Use a knife or a toothpick to swirl the caramel into the dough slightly, creating a marbled effect.
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top to enhance the flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be careful not to overbake.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing into squares.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
To serve your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars perfectly, consider presenting them on a decorative platter or cutting board. You can dust the tops with a light sprinkle of sea salt to enhance their appeal. For an indulgent experience, pair these bars with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The combination of warm cookie bars with cool ice cream creates a delightful contrast that everyone will enjoy. If you wish to elevate the presentation, consider drizzling additional salted caramel sauce over the top of each bar just before serving, adding a touch of elegance. These cookie bars are an excellent choice for gatherings, as they can be easily cut into portions for sharing. Place them in individual cupcake liners for ease of serving at parties or dessert tables.
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
For perfect salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars, follow these expert tips. First, be sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, and accurate measurements can make a big difference in texture and flavor. Use room-temperature butter for better creaming with sugars, as this helps achieve that lovely, fluffy texture. Allow your dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan, as this will help if you want thicker bars and a better structure. If you prefer extra gooeyness, slightly underbake the bars, removing them from the oven when the edges are set but the center remains soft. Feel free to experiment with the types of chocolate chips you use—dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate can all work beautifully. Lastly, be generous with the sea salt on top, as it balances the sweetness of the caramel and enhances the overall flavor profile. Enjoy the process and taste as you go!
How to Store Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
To store your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars, ensure they have cooled completely before storing them. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh, layering wax paper between the bars to prevent sticking. These bars can be stored at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to keep them for longer, consider refrigerating them. When stored in the fridge, they remain fresh for about a week. You can also freeze these bars for longer storage; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you wish to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature for a few hours or heat them briefly in the microwave.
Variations of Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
There are numerous ways to customize your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars to keep things fresh and exciting. One option is to add nuts for added texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts or pecans can contribute a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider introducing different spices, like cinnamon or espresso powder, into the dough for a unique twist. For those who love a more decadent experience, try layering various flavored chocolates in addition to or instead of regular chocolate chips. White chocolate and dark chocolate together create a visually stunning and delicious mix. You could even incorporate crushed candies or cookies into the batter for added flair. For a seasonal touch, mix in some pumpkin spice during the fall or peppermint pieces during the winter holidays. Each variation opens up new charm in your cookie bars, inviting you to experiment and find your favorite combination.
FAQ about Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
What are salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars?
Salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars are a delicious dessert combining rich chocolate chips and gooey salted caramel in a chewy cookie bar format.
How do I store salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
Can I use different types of chocolate in salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars?
Yes! You can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even a mix of different types of chocolate to create exciting flavor combinations.
How long do salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars need to cool before slicing?
Allow your bars to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, slice them into squares.
Is it okay to add nuts to salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even peanuts can add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall flavor of the bars.
Can I make these cookie bars gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the cookie base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
For assembly
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce
- Sea salt flakes for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Assembly
- Spread half of the cookie dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the cookie dough.
- Dollop the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer.
- Drizzle the rest of the salted caramel sauce on top and swirl with a knife or toothpick.
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes over the top.
Baking
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
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