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There’s something undeniably irresistible about salted caramel desserts. The perfect balance of sweet and savory creates a taste sensation that tantalizes the palate and leaves you craving more. Whether it’s drizzled over ice cream, enveloping a rich chocolate cake, or simply enjoyed in sauce form, salted caramel has become a hallmark of indulgent treats. Among the myriad of salted caramel delights, one recipe stands out for its simplicity and decadence: Salted Caramel Butter Bars.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Indulge in the delightful taste of Salted Caramel Butter Bars, where sweet meets savory in an irresistible dessert. Featuring a rich buttery base topped with luscious salted caramel, these bars are both visually stunning and perfectly balanced. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite toppings, they are ideal for bakers of all levels. Discover the joy of creating this sweet treat that will satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy the deliciousness!
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Ingredients
  

For the Base:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp salt

For the Salted Caramel:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tsp sea salt (plus extra for sprinkling)

For the Topping:

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions
 

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

    Make the Base: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add in the salt, then gradually mix in the flour until well combined. The mixture will be crumbly.

      Press the Base: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or a spatula to spread it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

        Prepare the Salted Caramel: While the base is baking, make the salted caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color (be careful not to burn it).

          Add the Butter: Once the sugar is melted, whisk in the butter until fully melted. Be prepared for some bubbling! Then carefully pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Cook for an additional minute until the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.

            Combine: Once the base is done baking, remove it from the oven. Pour the warm salted caramel over the baked base, spreading it evenly. If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts and dark chocolate chips on top.

              Chill: Let the caramel bars cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then transfer to the fridge for at least 2 hours to set completely.

                Cut and Serve: Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top if desired, and enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling) | Servings: 24 bars