Salted Caramel Butter Bars

If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress your friends and family, look no further than these Salted Caramel Butter Bars. They are truly a treat that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite. The buttery shortbread crust is the perfect foundation for the creamy caramel layer, creating a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special family gathering, these bars will quickly become a favorite.

What makes these Salted Caramel Butter Bars extra special is how simple they are to make! You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip them up, and they can easily be made ahead of time for any occasion. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why we keep coming back to this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of sweet and salty flavors.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars cut nicely into squares, making them great for parties or picnics.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these bars in advance and store them for later enjoyment.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich caramel and buttery crust create an irresistible treat that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars requires some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delectable dessert!

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups salted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour

For the Caramel Layer

• 14 ounces caramel candies, unwrapped (about 50 pieces)
• 1/3 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Flake sea salt

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to put your own twist on these delicious bars! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch.
• Use Different Extracts: Swap vanilla for almond or hazelnut extract for unique flavor profiles.
• Incorporate Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for an extra decadent treat.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the salted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, ensuring your crust has that perfect tender texture. Gradually mix in the vanilla extract and flour until combined. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a greased baking pan.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Once your crust is pressed down firmly, pop it in the oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Baking it first allows it to set up nicely before adding the gooey caramel layer.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Layer

While your crust is baking, unwrap those caramel candies and place them in a saucepan with heavy cream over low heat. Stir gently until everything is melted together into a smooth mixture. Adding cream makes sure that your caramel layer is creamy rather than too thick; this keeps every bite soft and chewy.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Again

Once your crust has cooled slightly after baking, pour the warm caramel mixture over it and spread evenly. Return it to the oven for another 25-30 minutes until bubbly. This step helps meld all those delicious flavors together!

Step 5: Finish with Sea Salt

After removing from the oven, allow your bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Sprinkle flake sea salt on top while they’re still warm; this adds that beautiful contrast of flavor which makes these bars so special!

And there you have it! Your very own batch of Salted Caramel Butter Bars ready to be devoured by family and friends. Enjoy every sweet moment!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Making these salted caramel butter bars is a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter at room temperature allows it to cream more easily with the sugars, resulting in a light and fluffy texture that is essential for the buttery crust.

• Don’t rush the cooling process: Letting the bars cool completely before cutting them helps them set properly, which makes slicing easier and prevents the caramel layer from oozing out.

• Experiment with salt: The balance of sweet and salty is key. Start with a small sprinkle of flake sea salt on top and adjust to your taste; it can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

• Line your baking pan: Using parchment paper to line your pan not only makes cleanup a breeze but also ensures that your bars come out easily without sticking.

• Store properly: To keep your salted caramel butter bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. They will stay tasty for up to a week at room temperature or even longer in the fridge!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars

These salted caramel butter bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious dessert:

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Adding finely chopped pecans or walnuts on top provides a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the bars.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped coconut cream adds a creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit: Serve with slices of apples or pears for a crisp contrast that balances out the sweetness of the bars.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of classic vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly combination when served alongside these warm, gooey bars.
• Coffee or tea: A hot cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the overall experience, making these salted caramel butter bars even more enjoyable as an afternoon treat.
• Cheese platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can create an interesting savory-sweet dynamic that’s sure to impress your guests.

Enjoy your delicious salted caramel butter bars, and happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These salted caramel butter bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them an ideal treat to have on hand for gatherings or sweet cravings.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator where they will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm bars, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm the whole batch in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Be sure to check regularly, so they don’t become too hot!

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up as you prepare your salted caramel butter bars.

Can I substitute ingredients in salted caramel butter bars?

Yes! You can replace salted butter with unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt if desired. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or almond milk in place of heavy cream.

How do I know when my salted caramel butter bars are done baking?

The edges should be lightly golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I make salted caramel butter bars without heavy cream?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk for a lighter version while still achieving that delicious caramel flavor.

What makes these salted caramel butter bars special?

These salted caramel butter bars are special because they combine rich buttery flavors with gooey caramel, creating an irresistible sweet and salty dessert that everyone loves!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making these salted caramel butter bars as I am! They bring together such delightful flavors and textures that they’re bound to impress anyone who takes a bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy every moment of baking and savoring these delicious treats!