If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of sweetness and a little touch of salty indulgence, Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the dessert you’ve been waiting for. With a buttery shortbread crust, a gooey salted caramel filling, and a crumbly topping, these bars are an irresistible treat. They combine all the best elements of dessert—rich, creamy, sweet, and a hint of savory—that come together in one bite. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a special celebration, or simply as a treat for yourself, these bars will quickly become a favorite.
What Makes Salted Caramel Butter Bars Special?
The beauty of Salted Caramel Butter Bars lies in their simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dessert that’s bursting with flavor and texture. The base is a soft, buttery shortbread dough that is both rich and crumbly. The middle is filled with a smooth and creamy salted caramel that balances the sweetness perfectly. The top layer is a second portion of shortbread dough that adds a slight crunch to every bite. The salt sprinkled on top of the caramel enhances the sweetness and creates a contrast that makes every bite feel indulgent.
These bars are incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit different tastes and occasions. Whether you’re adding a touch of vanilla, drizzling some extra caramel on top, or keeping it classic, these Salted Caramel Butter Bars will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
There are many reasons to love Salted Caramel Butter Bars:
- Easy to Make: Despite their indulgent taste, these bars are simple to prepare. No complicated techniques, just basic ingredients and a few straightforward steps.
- Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty: The salted caramel filling adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall sweetness, making it a perfect dessert for those who enjoy both ends of the flavor spectrum.
- Versatile: Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, as a holiday treat, or at a family gathering, these bars are appropriate for any occasion.
- Crisp, Buttery Crust: The shortbread crust provides the perfect base with its tender, slightly crumbly texture that contrasts beautifully with the gooey caramel filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the essential ingredients for these Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
For the Crust:
- 2 cups salted butter, softened (make sure it’s room temperature for easier mixing)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 14 ounces soft caramel candies (about 50 individual caramels), unwrapped
- 1/3 cup milk or cream (milk creates a lighter filling, while cream makes it richer)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt (this is for sprinkling on top of the caramel filling)
This combination of ingredients creates a balance of buttery richness and sweet, creamy caramel. The sea salt is a key player here, cutting through the sweetness and adding a sophisticated, savory note to the dessert.
How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars is a straightforward process, with only a few steps separating you from enjoying this delicious treat. The buttery shortbread crust pairs perfectly with the smooth, gooey caramel filling. Let’s walk through each step so you can create these mouthwatering bars with ease.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Next, coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make it easier to remove them after baking.
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the salted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing just until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
Press about one-third of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. This will form the crust. Wrap the remaining dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it while the crust bakes.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the edges of the crust are a pale golden brown. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and allow the crust to cool for about 15 minutes on a wire rack.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Filling
While the crust is baking, it’s time to prepare the caramel filling. In a microwave-safe bowl, place the unwrapped caramels and add the milk or cream. Microwave the mixture on high for 1 minute, then remove and stir until the caramel is completely smooth. If the caramels are not fully melted, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval.
Once the caramel is smooth, add the vanilla extract and stir until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Now it’s time to assemble the bars. Once the crust has cooled for about 15 minutes, pour the caramel filling over the crust, spreading it out evenly. If you’re using coarse sea salt, sprinkle it over the caramel layer at this point. This adds the signature salted flavor that balances the sweetness.
Remove the remaining chilled dough from the refrigerator and crumble it evenly over the caramel layer. The crumbles should cover the entire surface, but don’t worry about making it perfectly smooth—the uneven crumbles add to the texture of the final bars.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel filling is bubbly and the crumbled shortbread topping is firm and lightly golden. The caramel should be visibly set, and the top should have a crisp, golden appearance.
Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time helps the caramel to firm up, making the bars easier to cut.
Step 6: Cut and Serve
After the bars have cooled completely, cut them into 24 squares using a sharp knife. Serve and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery shortbread and gooey salted caramel!
Recipe Variations for Salted Caramel Butter Bars
While the original recipe is a classic favorite, there are plenty of ways to mix things up and create your own version of these delicious bars. Here are a few ideas:
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel filling for an added crunch that complements the smoothness of the caramel.
- Chocolate Twist: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars or add chocolate chips to the crust or filling. A chocolate-caramel combination is always a winner.
- Spicy Flavor: For a warm twist, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice into the caramel filling. The spice adds depth and complexity, making these bars perfect for fall.
- Fruit Filling: Add a layer of thinly sliced apples or pears between the caramel and shortbread layers. This adds moisture and a hint of tartness, which pairs well with the sweet caramel.
- Caramel Drizzle: For extra indulgence, drizzle extra caramel sauce on top of the bars before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
These variations let you personalize the recipe and create a unique version of Salted Caramel Butter Bars for any occasion.
Tips for Perfecting Salted Caramel Butter Bars
To ensure that your Salted Caramel Butter Bars come out perfect every time, here are some helpful tips that will elevate your baking game and guarantee the best results:
- Use Room Temperature Butter: For the best texture in your shortbread crust, ensure your butter is at room temperature before mixing. Softened butter will blend more easily with the sugars, creating a smooth and even dough.
- Chill the Dough: After you press the first layer of dough into the pan, chill the remaining dough before crumbling it over the caramel. Chilled dough is easier to crumble and helps it retain its texture when baked.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough can lead to dense, tough bars. Once the flour is added, mix until just combined to keep the texture light and tender.
- Check for Caramel Consistency: When making the caramel filling, make sure it is smooth and fully melted. If it feels too thick, add a little more milk or cream to achieve a pourable consistency.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Time: Let the bars cool completely before cutting. This allows the caramel to set and firm up, making them easier to slice into neat squares. Patience is key to achieving the perfect cut!
- Use a Sharp Knife: To get clean slices, use a sharp serrated knife or a sharp chef’s knife. A clean cut will make your bars look more professional and appealing.
- Serve at Room Temperature: While the Salted Caramel Butter Bars can be stored in the fridge, they are best served at room temperature. This allows the caramel to be soft and gooey, providing the best texture and flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (although that’s unlikely!), here’s how to store them:
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, you can store the bars in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
- Freezing: You can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Cut the bars into squares, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer-safe bag. To serve, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours, or microwave them for a few seconds to bring them back to their soft and gooey state.
FAQs on Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel candies?
While caramel candies are recommended for their texture and consistency, you can use caramel sauce in a pinch. However, keep in mind that the texture may not be as chewy or firm, and you might need to reduce the amount of liquid in the filling.
How can I make the bars less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the amount of powdered sugar in the crust or use dark caramel (which has a slightly less sweet flavor) for the filling. You can also skip the additional sea salt if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! If you’re serving a large group, you can double the recipe. Use a 10×15-inch baking pan or similar to accommodate the extra dough and caramel. Be sure to adjust the baking time as necessary, checking the bars after the original baking time.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made a day or two in advance. In fact, they often taste even better after a day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store them in an airtight container and let them sit at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts on Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the ultimate combination of buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and a dash of salt that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them with a cup of coffee, or making them as a special treat for your loved ones, these bars are sure to impress.
The balance between the rich, buttery crust and the gooey salted caramel filling is unbeatable, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create an unforgettable dessert. The recipe is adaptable too, allowing you to personalize it to your taste or add your favorite mix-ins. These bars are a true crowd-pleaser and a must-try for any caramel lover.
So, go ahead and whip up a batch of these Salted Caramel Butter Bars—they are perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Salted Caramel Butter Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine salted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar. Mix on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix until combined. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add flour, mixing just until the dough comes together.
- Press one-third of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Wrap the remaining dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes.
- While the crust is baking, place the unwrapped caramels and milk or cream into a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute and stir. Continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.
- Pour the caramel filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. If using coarse sea salt, sprinkle it over the caramel layer now.
- Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and crumble it evenly over the caramel layer.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the crumbled shortbread topping is firm and golden.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Chill the Dough: Ensure the dough is chilled before crumbling it over the caramel to maintain a crumbly texture after baking.
- Caramel Sauce Substitute: If using caramel sauce instead of caramels, the filling may be slightly thinner. Adjust the amount of cream if necessary.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Customization: Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or a cinnamon pinch for added flavor.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Bar):
- Calories: 423 kcal
- Sugar: 39.9g
- Sodium: 515.9mg
- Fat: 18.9g
- Carbohydrates: 60.6g
- Protein: 4.3g
- Cholesterol: 43.6mg