Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars combine three irresistible layers: a chewy sugar cookie base, a rich and buttery salted caramel middle, and a luscious chocolate topping. These bars are a showstopper for any party or gathering and are surprisingly easy to make. The balance of sweet chocolate, rich caramel, and a hint of sea salt will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookie Base:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Salted Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups semisweet or dark chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sugar Cookie Base

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
• Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
• Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
• Mix in Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
• Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to smooth the surface.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool completely in the pan.

2. Make the Salted Caramel Layer

• Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add Ingredients: Add the light brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir until everything is well combined.
• Cook the Caramel: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for about 5-7 minutes, until the caramel thickens and turns a deep golden color. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
• Pour Over Cookie Base: Pour the caramel over the cooled sugar cookie base and spread it evenly. Let it cool and set for about 30 minutes at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

3. Make the Chocolate Topping

• Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and butter. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.
• Pour Over Caramel Layer: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Chill to Set: Place the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set.

4. Slice and Serve

• Cut into Bars: Once the chocolate is set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles.
• Serve: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before serving for an extra salty-sweet finish.

Cooking Notes

• Caramel Cooking: Stir constantly while cooking the caramel to prevent it from burning. The mixture can scorch easily, so keep the heat at medium and don’t walk away.
• Chill Time: Allow sufficient chill time for each layer to set before adding the next. This ensures clean and distinct layers in each bar.

Variations

• Nutty Caramel Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer for added crunch.
• Peanut Butter Twist: Swirl 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter into the chocolate layer for a delicious peanut butter-chocolate combination.
• White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead. They can be prepared 1-2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How do I store leftover Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars?

Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How do I cut the bars cleanly?

For clean cuts, chill the bars thoroughly before slicing. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut to ensure neat slices.

What can I serve with Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars?

These bars are delicious on their own but can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are a decadent, layered treat that combines the sweetness of sugar cookies, the gooey richness of salted caramel, and the smoothness of chocolate. The balance of sweet and salty flavors, along with the different textures, makes these bars a true delight for any dessert lover. Whether for a party, holiday treat, or a simple indulgence, these bars are sure to satisfy.

Try this recipe for a sweet treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe!