In the comforting glow of my kitchen, I found myself torn between the sweet allure of dessert and the satisfying crunch of a buttery shortbread base. That’s when I stumbled upon the magical combination of flavors in Salted Caramel Butter Bars. With their rich, golden caramel layers topped with a sprinkle of sea salt, these bars are an unforgettable indulgence. Perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth or wowing guests at your next gathering, they strike the ideal balance between sweet and salty. Best of all, they’re easy to whip up and come with a gluten-free option, making them accessible for everyone. Ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into the delicious world of salted caramel goodness together!

Why are These Bars So Irresistible?

Ultimate Flavor Fusion: The delightful combination of buttery shortbread and gooey caramel creates a dessert that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Customizable Goodness: Want a twist? You can easily adapt these bars with gluten-free options or add nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, this recipe requires minimal effort for maximum satisfaction.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a cozy family night or a big gathering, these bars are sure to impress guests and bring smiles all around.

Make sure to enjoy them warm with a scoop of ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra touch, just like my favorite Oatmeal Peanut Butter treats!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Ingredients

For the Shortbread Base

Unsalted Butter – 1 pound (2 cups); use room temperature for the best blending and creaminess.
Granulated Sugar – 1 cup; sweetens the dough, ensuring a rich flavor without substitutes recommended.
Powdered Sugar – 1½ cups; adds sweetness and a softer texture to the bars, but can substitute granulated sugar if you’re in a pinch.
Vanilla Extract – 2 tablespoons; enhances the flavor profile, with pure vanilla offering the best taste.
All-Purpose Flour – 4 cups; forms the structure of the bars; swap with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.

For the Gooey Caramel Layer

Caramel Candies – 1 (14 oz) bag or 2 cups soft caramel bits; forms the delicious, gooey filling synonymous with these Salted Caramel Butter Bars.
Heavy Cream – ⅓ cup; crucial for melting the caramels smoothly, providing that creamy texture—no substitutes like milk.
Coarse Sea Salt – ½ to 1 teaspoon; be sure to sprinkle it generously for that perfect salty-sweet flavor balance.

For the Topping

Reserved Dough – From the shortbread base, crumbled over the caramel layer to create a delightful crunchy contrast.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grab a 9×13-inch baking pan. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This technique ensures your Salted Caramel Butter Bars come out in one beautiful piece, making serving and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 pound of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1½ cups of powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract, then gradually mix in 4 cups of all-purpose flour until a thick dough forms. The texture should be smooth and cohesive.

Step 3: Press and Bake
Take about half to two-thirds of the prepared dough and evenly press it into the bottom of the lined pan, creating a solid crust. This layer will serve as the base of your Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel
While the crust bakes, unwrap 14 ounces of caramel candies and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Combine with ⅓ cup of heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the mixture is completely smooth. Alternatively, you can melt it over low heat on the stove, stirring continuously to prevent scorching.

Step 5: Layer the Caramel
Once your crust is done, carefully pour the melted caramel over the warm shortbread base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Be sure to sprinkle with a generous ½ to 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt, enhancing the rich flavors of the caramel and adding to that perfect sweet-salty balance found in these Salted Caramel Butter Bars.

Step 6: Add the Topping
Crumble the reserved dough evenly over the caramel layer, creating a nice texture contrast while ensuring no pressing is needed. This will allow the topping to remain crumbly and delightful as it bakes. If you want even more fun, feel free to sprinkle additional sea salt on top for extra flavor.

Step 7: Bake Again
Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for the topping to be set and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Salted Caramel Butter Bars are on their way to perfection!

Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For the cleanest slices, chill them in the refrigerator for about 1 hour. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and slice them into squares, ready to be enjoyed!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Variations

Feel free to explore your creative side with these delightful variations that will take your Salted Caramel Butter Bars to the next level!

Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary needs while keeping the taste scrumptious.
Nutty Delight: Stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
Chocolate Swirl: Drizzle melted dark chocolate or fold in chocolate chips to the caramel for an indulgent twist on the classic recipe.
Enhanced Flavor: Infuse the base dough with almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty undertone that pairs beautifully with caramel.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or ground cinnamon to the dough or caramel for a subtle heat that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Caramel Sauce: Substitute the caramel candies for homemade caramel sauce for a richer, creamier filling that offers a personal touch.
Coconut Flakes: Mix in 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

These luscious bars are versatile and can be paired with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee – I especially love the comforting combination with my favorite Load Up on Flavor Bars or the lighter touch of Sugar-Free Cheesecake Bars for a sweet treat that balances indulgence and wellness.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can prepare the shortbread base up to 24 hours in advance. Simply press the dough into the pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The caramel layer can also be made ahead; melt the caramels and cream, store them in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, just reheat the caramel until it’s pourable and proceed to layer it over the chilled crust. This way, your dessert will still be just as delicious, while allowing you to whip up these bars with minimal effort on the day you plan to serve them!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Indulging in these silky bars? Let’s create a delightful spread that enhances every sweet bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that brings creaminess to balance the sweet and salty bars, perfect for a comforting dessert.
Fresh Berries: Bright, tart raspberries or juicy strawberries add a refreshing contrast to the rich caramel, lightening each mouthful.
Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich notes of coffee provide a wonderful counterbalance, elevating both the flavor and the experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent add-on, drizzle melted chocolate on top for that extra layer of sweetness and elegance.
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top provide a crunch that complements the gooeyness, adding depth to every bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra indulgent touch that highlights the bars’ flavor.
Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that beautifully contrasts the density of the bars while adding a touch of sweetness.
Mint Tea: Served hot or iced, this refreshing herbal beverage balances the sweetness and helps cleanse the palate after each treat.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Room Temperature: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain their delicious gooeyness.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to a week for a refreshing treat that keeps the flavors intact.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying for the best taste.

Reheating: If you fancy a warm dessert, pop the bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on a low setting to revive their gooey texture without overcooking.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Warm Butter Magic: Use room-temperature butter to ensure a smooth and creamy dough mix, which helps prevent a crumbly texture in your Salted Caramel Butter Bars.
Crust Perfection: Keep an eye on your shortbread crust while baking; pulling it out too late can lead to overbaking, affecting that buttery texture crucial for the bars.
Careful Caramel Melting: Stir constantly when melting caramels with heavy cream to avoid scorching. An even melt guarantees a silky caramel layer.
Cooling is Key: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Chilling them for an hour in the refrigerator helps maintain structure and makes for cleaner cuts.
Salt Sprinkling Secret: Feel free to taste and adjust the sea salt before baking. This extra touch enhances the sweet-savory combo that makes the bars irresistible!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ingredients for my Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for optimal blending. If you opt for a gluten-free version, select a good-quality gluten-free flour blend that measures like all-purpose flour.

How do I store Salted Caramel Butter Bars, and how long do they last?
These delectable bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, maintaining that irresistible gooeyness. If you decide to refrigerate them, they’ll stay fresh for about a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Yes! For longer storage, tightly wrap the bars in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying. For a warm dessert fix, pop individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my caramel is too thick when melting?
Very! If your caramel mixture seems too thick, you can add an additional teaspoon or two of heavy cream while melting. Stir well to achieve that smooth, creamy consistency. This will ensure your caramel layer maintains its gooey charm for the bars.

Are there any dietary considerations when making these bars?
Certainly! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, you can use gluten-free flour for a safe treat. However, be mindful of the caramel candies, as some brands may contain allergens. Always check packaging for potential allergens like nuts or dairy if you’re sharing with others.

How can I customize my Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
You can definitely mix it up! Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for extra crunch and flavor. Additionally, swapping out the caramel candies for a homemade caramel sauce will elevate your bars to a whole new level of deliciousness!