Description
Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with these Salted Caramel Butter Bars. A delectable combination of a rich, buttery shortbread crust, layered with a luscious, thick caramel filling, and finished with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect balance of flavors. These bars are a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are transformed into a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup white sugar
1½ cups powdered sugar
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 11.5 oz jar salted caramel sauce
Sea salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a 13×9″ baking pan with foil and spray with cooking spray.
In a stand mixer, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla, then flour to form a dough.
Press HALF the dough into the pan. Refrigerate the rest.
Bake crust for 15 mins. Pour caramel over crust, crumble remaining dough on top, and sprinkle with sea salt.
Bake for 25-30 mins until golden. Cool, then refrigerate before cutting.
Notes
- Butter Quality: Using high-quality, unsalted butter is key to achieving the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the shortbread base. The better the butter, the better the taste and texture of your bars.
- Caramel Consistency: If opting for homemade caramel or store-bought caramel sauce, aim for a thicker consistency to ensure the bars are easy to cut and hold their shape when served.
- Customization: Feel free to add your own twist to the recipe with additions like chocolate chips, nuts, or even a layer of fruit jam beneath the caramel for a unique flavor combination.
- Serving Temperature: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature before serving to ensure the caramel is perfectly soft and gooey.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American