Description
Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with these Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars. Each bite is a heavenly blend of rich, buttery chocolate chip cookie dough and a silky, gooey layer of caramel. Perfect for dessert lovers who can’t decide between chocolate chip cookies and caramel candies, this recipe combines the best of both worlds into one irresistible bar.
Ingredients
2 1/8 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
12 tablespoons butter, melted and cooled to room temperature
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
1 large egg
1 large egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
10 ounces caramel candy
3 tablespoons heavy cream
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.
In another bowl, blend melted butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until well combined. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel candy with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
Press half of the cookie dough into the prepared pan. Pour the melted caramel over the dough, then drop the remaining dough in spoonfuls over the caramel.
Bake for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Ingredient Temperatures: For the best results, ensure your butter is melted and cooled to room temperature before starting. This helps it blend smoothly with the sugars, creating a perfect base for your dough.
- Caramel Layer: If using store-bought caramel candies, opt for a high-quality brand for the best flavor and texture. The addition of heavy cream helps keep the caramel layer soft and spreadable.
- Baking Pan: Lining your baking pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the bars after cooling and helps with clean-up. Leave some overhang on the sides to lift the bars out easily.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan is crucial for the caramel to set properly. If you try to cut the bars while they’re still warm, the layers may not hold together well.
- Customizations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans to the dough for added texture, or sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel layer for a salted caramel twist.
- Storage: These bars keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. If stacking the bars for storage, place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 580 kcal
