Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

If you are a fan of luscious, chewy treats that combine the best of chocolate and caramel, then this Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine rich homemade caramel melted right into a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookie bars, then topped with just the right touch of flaky sea salt for that unforgettable sweet and salty dance on your palate. These bars are the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, perfect for sharing or savoring with a hot cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to making these cookie bars shine. Each element plays an essential role: from the creamy butter creating tenderness to the sweet-savory contrast of caramel and sea salt that makes every bite magical.

• 1 cup butter, softened: Provides richness and helps create a tender, chewy texture.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds deep molasses flavor and moisture for chewiness.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to a subtle crispness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add structure to the bars.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise just enough without becoming cakey.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out the sweetness and balances flavors.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives these bars their perfect chew and sturdiness.
• 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Brings melty pockets of chocolate throughout every bite.
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk: Forms the creamy, luscious base of the caramel layer.
• 10 ounces soft caramels, unwrapped: Melt into the caramel for a rich, buttery sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt: The crowning touch that enhances the salted caramel experience.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Don’t forget to grease the parchment with nonstick spray and leave some overhang on the sides—that way, you can easily lift your bars out once they’re baked and cooled. This simple prep step makes slicing and serving a breeze!

Step 2: Mix the Cookie Dough Base

Using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy—this is your base for the perfect chewy texture. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt next, mixing thoroughly while scraping down the sides of the bowl to combine every bit of goodness evenly.

Step 3: Add Flour and Chocolate Chips

Slowly mix in the all-purpose flour on low speed so you don’t overwork the dough, ensuring tender bars. Once combined, fold in those semisweet chocolate chips—these will melt into little pockets of chocolate candy as the bars bake, making each bite irresistibly rich.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookie Bars

Press half of the cookie dough mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. This creates a sturdy, delicious foundation for the luscious caramel layer you’re about to add. Take your time to press it evenly as this will keep the bars intact when sliced.

Step 5: Make and Layer the Salted Caramel Filling

In a small pot over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and unwrapped caramels. Stir frequently until everything melts together smoothly into a creamy caramel bliss. Pour this golden goodness evenly over the cookie dough in the pan.

Step 6: Top with Remaining Cookie Dough

Use a spoon to dollop the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer. It won’t spread smoothly—instead, it will look like little chunks scattered across the top. This texture adds extra bursts of cookie throughout your bars, creating a beautiful contrast.

Step 7: Bake and Finish with Sea Salt

Slide your bars into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, just until they’re set but still soft in the middle. Immediately after baking, sprinkle the surface generously with flaked sea salt. This final flourish intensifies the salted caramel magic and balances the sweetness perfectly. Let the bars cool completely before lifting and slicing into squares.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

While these bars are stunning on their own, you can elevate presentation by adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or a few extra sea salt flakes on top right before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side takes indulgence to a whole new level.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a hot cup of coffee or your favorite rich black tea to balance their sweetness beautifully. If you want to turn this into an extra-special dessert, serve alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or special occasions, cut your cookie bars into bite-sized squares and serve in small paper cups or on decorative platters sprinkled with extra sea salt or mini chocolate chips. These bars also make fantastic gifts—wrap them in parchment and tie with a ribbon for a charming homemade treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store leftover Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Keeping them sealed ensures they stay soft and moist, ready for whenever you crave another bite of sweet joy.

Freezing

These cookie bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you want a treat, just thaw them overnight in the fridge, and they’ll taste almost as fresh as when you first baked them.

Reheating

If you like your bars warm, pop a portion in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This will revive the gooey caramel and soften the chocolate chips perfectly, making every bite feel freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted in this recipe?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be mindful of the total salt content since the recipe already includes salt and a finishing sprinkle of sea salt. You might want to reduce the added salt slightly to keep the balance perfect.

Is it necessary to use sweetened condensed milk for the caramel layer?

Sweetened condensed milk is crucial for achieving that luscious, creamy caramel texture. While you could try making caramel from scratch, this shortcut makes the recipe easier and reliably delicious every time.

Can I substitute chocolate chips with chunks or another type of chocolate?

Absolutely! Chunky chocolate or a mix of milk and dark chocolate pieces can add interesting texture and flavor variations. Just be mindful that different chocolates melt differently, which might slightly affect the bars’ texture.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

Look for bars that are set around the edges but still slightly soft in the middle. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking to keep the chewy texture everyone loves.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling the recipe works well if you have a larger baking dish or two pans to bake the bars separately. Just keep the layer proportions the same and monitor baking time as it might vary slightly depending on pan size.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of making and sharing this Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of sweet, salty, gooey, and chewy all wrapped into one spectacular dessert. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just because you deserve a treat, these bars will quickly become a treasured staple in your kitchen. Dive in, savor every bite, and let that warm caramel hug your soul.

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