Indulge with Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe

Recipe By:
Natalia
Updated:

Indulge your sweet tooth with the rich and buttery goodness of a Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe. Picture this: layers of buttery crust, luscious caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt that dances on your taste buds like a ballerina at a candy store. It’s an experience that tickles every sense and leaves you craving more.

These bars are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy movie night or an extravagant holiday gathering, they bring joy to the table. I remember making these bars for my best friend’s birthday party, and let me tell you, the moment they hit the dessert table, they disappeared faster than a magician pulling a rabbit from a hat!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These salted caramel butter bars are simple to whip up, making them perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers.
  • The balance of sweet and salty creates an irresistible flavor profile that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
  • Visually stunning with their glossy caramel topping, they are sure to impress your guests.
  • Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve at any gathering or simply enjoy as an everyday treat!

Ingredients for Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of your buttery crust. Opt for unbleached flour for better flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for that rich flavor. Let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
  • Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor to your bars.
  • Granulated Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar enhances sweetness and helps in caramelization.
  • Eggs: Large eggs provide structure and richness to the caramel layer. Make sure they’re at room temperature.
  • Heavy Cream: This creates a luxurious texture in the caramel sauce. Don’t skimp; it’s worth it!
  • Sea Salt: Flaky sea salt is essential for that perfect sweet-salty balance. Sprinkle generously!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to help lift out the bars later. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan evenly.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown around the edges. While it bakes, you can prepare your caramel filling—it’ll be so worth it!

Step 3: Make the Caramel Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream and brown sugar. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about five minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract along with a pinch of sea salt while it’s still warm. This will give your caramel that delightful flavor kick!

Step 5: Assemble Bars

Pour the warm caramel mixture over the baked crust once it’s out of the oven. Spread it evenly across the top using a spatula for that smooth finish.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Let it cool at room temperature for about an hour before refrigerating for another hour or until set completely. Once chilled, lift from the pan using parchment overhang and cut into squares—prepare yourself for oohs and ahhs!

Serve these decadent salted caramel butter bars with pride as they steal show after show! You might want to keep them hidden though; otherwise, they might just vanish into thin air like my resolve during dessert time!

You Must Know

  • This decadent salted caramel butter bars recipe brings joy to any gathering.
  • They’re rich, buttery, and so easy to whip up that you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner.
  • Perfect for sharing, but you might end up eating them all yourself!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your baking dish. Mix the butter and sugar until fluffy, then add your dry ingredients while keeping an eye on your caramel sauce in another pot. This multitasking ensures a seamless flow for perfect results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out regular flour for whole wheat for a healthier twist or add nuts for an extra crunch. You can also try flavored sea salts like smoked or garlic for a unique twist on the classic salted caramel experience.

Storing & Reheating

Store your decadent salted caramel butter bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to reheat them, warm them briefly in the microwave—just don’t let them turn into gooey puddles!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always measure your ingredients accurately to ensure the best texture and flavor.
  • Don’t rush the caramel; it needs time to develop its rich color and taste.
  • Finally, allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

It was a rainy Saturday afternoon when I decided to give this decadent salted caramel butter bars recipe a try. My family devoured them within minutes, each bite prompting delighted smiles and requests for more. It turned out to be the perfect cozy treat!

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients in the Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe?

The main ingredients for the Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars include unsalted butter, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and a touch of salt. For the caramel layer, you’ll need sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. To create a delicious vegan option, consider substituting butter with plant-based margarine and using coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich flavor. This recipe is perfect for those who love sweet treats with a hint of saltiness.

How can I make the caramel thicker in my Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars?

To achieve a thicker caramel in your Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars, cook the sugar longer until it reaches a deep amber color before adding cream. This process enhances the caramel’s richness and thickness. Additionally, you can let the caramel cool slightly before spreading it over the butter bars to ensure it firms up nicely as it sets. Remember that patience is key when making perfect caramel!

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe?

You can substitute several ingredients in the Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, use coconut oil in place of butter for a dairy-free version. If you’re looking to avoid gluten, opt for almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Feel free to experiment with different types of sugars or flavorings to create your unique version of these delicious bars.

How should I store my Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars?

To keep your Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness for up to two weeks. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing individual pieces separated by parchment paper. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before indulging in their delectable flavors.

Conclusion for Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe:

In summary, this Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe combines rich flavors with a delightful texture that is sure to please everyone. Using simple ingredients like butter and brown sugar creates an irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea. Don’t hesitate to customize the recipe by substituting ingredients according to your preferences! Enjoy making these bars for parties or gatherings; they are bound to become a favorite among friends and family!

Print
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Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Indulge in the creamy, buttery bliss of Decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Each square features a perfectly balanced harmony of sweet caramel and a hint of sea salt, all atop a luscious buttery crust. Ideal for any gathering or cozy night in, these bars are simple to make and guaranteed to impress with their rich flavors that leave everyone craving more.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 16 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp flaky sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, combine flour, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
  4. For the caramel, heat heavy cream and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until dissolved. Simmer for about five minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.
  6. Pour the caramel over the baked crust evenly.
  7. Cool at room temperature for one hour, then refrigerate until set (about one more hour). Cut into squares before serving.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 75mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: <1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For added texture, consider incorporating chopped nuts or swapping all-purpose flour for whole wheat. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

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