Very few desserts can compete with the irresistible combination of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a buttery cookie base. These salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars are a game-changer for any sweet tooth, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of melted caramel and chocolate chips creates a gooey center that’s hard to resist.
- A sprinkle of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness and adds a sophisticated flavor profile.
- The cookie base is soft and chewy, providing the perfect contrast to the gooey filling.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions and additions to suit any taste.
- It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring no special skills or equipment.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel bits
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. This step ensures your bars won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This combination will give your cookie bars the perfect structure and slight rise.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the egg and egg yolk, mixing until just combined. The eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients together.
Fold in Chocolate and Caramel
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Then, stir in the chocolate chips and caramel bits. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bars tender.
Bake to Perfection
Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the center is still slightly soft. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra gooey center, slightly underbake the bars and let them cool completely in the pan. If you prefer a crispier edge, bake for the full 30 minutes. To easily cut the bars, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water. For a more intense caramel flavor, drizzle additional caramel sauce on top before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Recipe Variations
- Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark or milk chocolate depending on your preference.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Incorporate a layer of peanut butter between the cookie dough and caramel for a decadent twist.
- Use white chocolate chips and butterscotch bits for a different flavor profile.
- For a festive version, mix in holiday sprinkles or colored chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel bits? Absolutely! Homemade caramel will add a richer flavor. Just ensure it’s thick enough to prevent the bars from becoming too soggy.
How do I store these cookie bars? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Can I make these bars gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. The texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
Summary
These gooey salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, with a texture that’s irresistibly chewy and soft. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’re sure to become a favorite.