Description
Enjoy these rich Caramel Cookie Bars with a buttery base, gooey caramel, and a mix of chocolate chips and nuts. Perfect for any occasion, they are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet cravings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. A few lumps are fine; do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) with a spatula.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter, creating a swirl effect if desired.
- Carefully spread the remaining batter over the caramel layer, using spoonfuls to make it easier.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the batter and swirl it in for a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely. If using parchment paper, lift the entire batch out of the pan.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, aiming for about 24 bars.
- For an extra touch, drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the cut bars before serving.
Notes
- These bars are perfect for parties, bake sales, or as a sweet treat for yourself and your family.
- They pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and a sprinkle of sea salt adds a delightful contrast.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes