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Irresistible Gooey Caramel Bars

gooey caramel bars - featured image

These gooey caramel bars feature a buttery crust, a rich caramel center, and a crunchy topping of chocolate chips and nuts. Perfect for any occasion and easy to make!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup caramel sauce
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the crust cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the caramel sauce with the heavy cream. Pour the caramel over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle the chocolate chips and chopped nuts evenly over the caramel layer. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt if desired.
  6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the edges are set.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

[‘Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.’, ‘Chill the bars for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.’, ‘Avoid overbaking to keep the caramel gooey.’, ‘Experiment with toppings like shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or melted chocolate.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel bars, dessert, easy recipe, gooey caramel, chocolate chips, nuts, baking