Salted Caramel Butter Bars

If you’re craving a dessert that combines the richness of butter, the sweetness of caramel, and a savory twist of salt, look no further than Salted Caramel Butter Bars. This mouthwatering treat is a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, making it an irresistible choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special event, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, these buttery bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

What Are Salted Caramel Butter Bars?

Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a decadent dessert that layers a buttery shortbread-like base with a gooey, rich caramel filling, all topped off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. The combination of buttery richness, smooth caramel, and the contrast of the salt creates a heavenly treat that is as delicious as it is addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
• For the Caramel Filling:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (preferably sea salt for the perfect salty kick)
• For the Topping:
  • 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars after baking.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough forms. The dough should be crumbly but stick together when pressed.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, making sure it covers the entire base.
5. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it turns golden brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the caramel filling.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Once the butter is melted, stir in the brown sugar and sweetened condensed milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.
3. Allow the caramel to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. The caramel should be glossy and velvety.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the caramel filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the caramel filling is bubbling and golden.
3. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touch

1. Once the bars have cooled, sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. The salt enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the caramel.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares or bars and serve!

Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Butter Bars

1. Chill Before Cutting: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for 1-2 hours before slicing them into squares. This helps the caramel set and makes the bars easier to handle.
2. Use Flaky Sea Salt: While regular salt can be used, flaky sea salt adds a gourmet touch and enhances the contrast between the sweet caramel and the salty topping.
3. Customize Your Topping: If you’re a fan of extra flavor, you can top these bars with a drizzle of melted chocolate, crushed nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

• Perfect Texture: The combination of a buttery shortbread base and gooey caramel filling gives these bars the perfect texture—crispy, chewy, and smooth.
• Balance of Flavors: The contrast between the rich sweetness of the caramel and the salty finish makes each bite a perfect indulgence.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, these bars come together quickly, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion.
• Versatile: Whether you serve them at a holiday party, a family dinner, or as a sweet snack, Salted Caramel Butter Bars are sure to impress.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet and savory treat. With their buttery crust, rich caramel filling, and delicate sprinkle of sea salt, these bars are the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or indulging yourself, these bars will not disappoint. Get ready to enjoy a bite of caramel heaven!

Serving and Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Serving Tips:

1. Presentation: Serve the Salted Caramel Butter Bars in neat squares or rectangles on a decorative platter for a polished look. You can garnish with extra flaky sea salt or a drizzle of chocolate to enhance the visual appeal.
2. Pairing: These bars pair wonderfully with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a more decadent treat, enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Portion Control: Since these bars are rich and sweet, cut them into small squares for easy serving. This also allows guests to enjoy the dessert in a few bites without feeling overwhelmed by the sweetness.

Storage Tips:

1. At Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bars within 3-4 days, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their freshness.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the bars in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from absorbing moisture or odors. They should stay fresh for up to a week when refrigerated.
3. Freezing: Salted Caramel Butter Bars can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, cut the bars into squares, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the bars into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
4. Avoid Sticking: To prevent the bars from sticking together, you can layer them with parchment paper if stacking them in a container. This keeps them from sticking to each other while stored.

With these tips, your Salted Caramel Butter Bars will stay delicious and fresh, ready to enjoy whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet and salty treat!

1. Can I make Salted Caramel Butter Bars in advance? Yes! Salted Caramel Butter Bars can be made in advance and stored for up to a week at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

2. Can I substitute the sea salt with regular salt? While you can use regular salt, flaky sea salt is recommended for the best flavor and texture. The sea salt adds a delicate crunch and a subtle salty kick that balances the sweetness of the caramel. If using regular salt, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the caramel.

3. How do I prevent the caramel from hardening when making the bars? To ensure the caramel stays soft and gooey, be careful not to overcook it. Simmer the caramel mixture for only 4-5 minutes, just until it thickens slightly. If it does harden too much, you can gently reheat it with a bit of butter or cream to loosen it up before spreading it over the crust.

4. Can I add chocolate to the bars for extra flavor? Absolutely! You can drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled caramel bars or even mix chocolate chips into the caramel filling for a richer taste. Adding chocolate gives the bars an extra layer of decadence and flavor!

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