Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

There is something truly irresistible about the combination of gooey caramel, rich chocolate chips, and buttery cookie goodness all baked into one. The Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars bring together these flavors in one luscious dessert that feels like a warm hug in every bite. With just the right balance of sweet and salty, soft yet chewy texture, these bars quickly become a favorite for any occasion, whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring a quiet moment solo.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create the perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you don’t need an overwhelming list of ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering that iconic flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen while baking.

• All-purpose flour: 2 cups provide the sturdy base that holds everything together with just the right crumbly texture.
• Baking soda: 1 teaspoon helps the bars rise perfectly without puffing too much, creating that ideal chewy consistency.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon enhances all the sweet flavors, bringing out depth and balancing the rich ingredients.
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup softened to room temperature, essential for richness and that melt-in-your-mouth softness.
• Brown sugar: 1 cup packed adds moisture, a subtle molasses flavor, and chewiness to the cookie bars.
• Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup sweetens without overpowering, contributing to a crispy edge.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs bind all ingredients together while adding richness.
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons perfectly rounds out the flavors with its warm, inviting aroma.
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: 2 cups scatter pockets of melting chocolate bit by bit throughout every bite.
• Salted caramel sauce: 1 cup to drizzle and infuse that signature salty-sweet kick that truly elevates the cookie bars to unforgettable.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookie bars cook evenly. Then grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper so the bars come out cleanly and effortlessly after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugars

Take the softened unsalted butter and combine it with both the brown sugar and granulated sugar in a large bowl. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this step is key because it builds the structure and sweetness foundation for the bars.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure everything blends smoothly. Then pour in the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated—the vanilla really brings warmth and complexity to the dough.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This process evenly distributes the leavening agent and seasoning, which will help your bars bake evenly and taste perfectly balanced.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients with the Wet Ingredients

Now, gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet one. Stir just until combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can make your bars tough instead of tender and chewy.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, letting waves of rich chocolate disperse evenly throughout the dough. This is the moment your bars start to look truly decadent.

Step 7: Spread Dough in the Baking Dish

Use a spatula to evenly spread the cookie dough into your prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface so the bars cook uniformly.

Step 8: Bake the Cookie Bars

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown around the edges. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your bars are ready to go!

Step 9: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

While the bars bake, melt caramel candies with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts until you have a smooth, luscious sauce that will drizzle beautifully.

Step 10: Drizzle the Caramel on the Bars

Once your cookie bars have cooled slightly, drizzle the warm salted caramel sauce evenly over the top. This finishing touch lends the signature salty-sweet magic to every bite.

Step 11: Allow to Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up perfectly. Once cooled, cut into squares and get ready to indulge!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Garnishes

A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top amplifies the irresistible salted caramel flavor perfectly. You might also add a few extra chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate for a luscious finale to presentation.

Side Dishes

These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a cozy touch, serve alongside a warm mug of coffee or hot cocoa to complement all those gooey, rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit or edible flowers for a pretty, inviting dessert tray. For parties, try stacking small bars with parchment paper in between for grab-and-go treats that are sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy, making for a perfect anytime snack.

Freezing

If you want to save these bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness, or enjoy cold right out of the fridge for a chewier texture—both ways are delicious!

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While you can substitute salted butter, I recommend sticking to unsalted butter and adding salt separately. This gives you more control over the saltiness and keeps the flavor balanced, especially with that salted caramel topping.

What is the best chocolate to use for these cookie bars?

Semi-sweet chocolate chips work beautifully because they offer just the right balance of sweetness to complement the salted caramel without overpowering it.

How thick should I spread the cookie dough in the pan?

For the ideal texture, spread the dough evenly about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. This thickness ensures chewy interiors with just the right edges.

Can I make the salted caramel sauce from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce made from sugar, butter, cream, and sea salt tastes amazing, but using pre-made caramel candies and melting them as instructed also makes it quick and foolproof.

What if I don’t have parchment paper for lining the pan?

No problem! Greasing the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray works just fine. Parchment just makes lifting the bars out easier once cooled.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the joy of biting into Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars—warm, rich, and oozing with all the flavors you crave in a dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or treating yourself on a quiet afternoon, these bars will deliver happiness with every bite. Give the recipe a try and share the magic of homemade indulgence with those you love!

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