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If you're searching for a dessert that perfectly balances rich flavors and textures, look no further than Heavenly Salted Caramel Butter Bars. These delightful treats are a harmonious blend of buttery cookie crust and luscious salted caramel topping, making them an irresistible indulgence for any sweet tooth. The combination of sweet and salty creates a flavor profile that captivates the palate, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is hard to resist.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Indulge in the delightful taste of Heavenly Salted Caramel Butter Bars, a perfect dessert that combines a buttery cookie crust with a rich salted caramel topping. These bars feature a beautiful balance of sweet and salty flavors, making them a hit at any gathering or as a special treat at home. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, these butter bars promise a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will leave everyone raving. Discover the joy of baking and sharing this irresistible sweet delight!

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Base:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

For the Salted Caramel Topping:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

For the Garnish:

Flaky sea salt

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

    Prepare the cookie base: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

      Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract until combined.

        In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

          Spread the cookie dough evenly in the prepared baking pan, smoothing it down with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

            Prepare the salted caramel: While the cookie base is baking, heat the granulated sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it melts into a clear amber liquid.

              Once melted, carefully add the butter pieces and continue to stir until melted and smooth. Gradually pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously), and mix until combined. Stir in the sea salt. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

                Assemble the bars: Once the cookie base has cooled for about 10 minutes, pour the warm salted caramel evenly over the top. Use a spatula to spread it out if necessary.

                  Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the caramel is bubbly and slightly set.

                    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and transfer to a cutting board.

                      Garnish: Before slicing, sprinkle a light dusting of flaky sea salt over the top for an extra touch.

                        Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy the delightful combination of buttery cookie, rich caramel, and sea salt!

                          Prep Time | Total Time | Servings: 25 mins | 1 hr | 16 bars