As I was whisking together butter and sugar, a warm, sweet aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to my childhood—where every bite felt like a hug! That’s the magic of these Salted Caramel Butter Bars. With their delightful layers of a buttery shortbread crust, creamy caramel filling, and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory. Not only are they incredibly easy to bake, but they also make for a show-stopping dessert that will impress friends and family alike. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just a simple Tuesday treat, these bars are destined to become a favorite. Curious about how to make them and enjoy the gooey goodness? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why Are These Bars So Irresistible?

Layers of Joy: The combination of a buttery shortbread crust and gooey caramel filling makes each bite a delightful experience.

Easy to Make: Perfect for both novice and experienced bakers, these Salted Caramel Butter Bars require minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Versatile Treat: Tailor them to your taste! Try adding nuts for extra crunch or swap the caramel for a luscious chocolate ganache.

Gooey Goodness: Experience the melt-in-your-mouth texture, enhanced by the sprinkle of coarse sea salt that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From weekday treats to festive gatherings, these bars cater to everyone, ensuring a crowd-pleasing dessert every time!

For a quick but sumptuous dessert, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or check out my popular recipes like Garlic Butter Chicken or Butter Toffee Pretzels for more tasty options!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Ingredients

• Dive into the sweet and salty magic with these essential ingredients.

For the Crust and Topping

Unsalted Butter – Use room temperature for a creamy texture that binds the crust and topping beautifully.
Granulated Sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness to the dough, enhancing the overall flavor.
Powdered Sugar – Gives the bars a tender texture; if you’re in a pinch, granulated works as a substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; opt for pure vanilla to maximize taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free blends work for those avoiding gluten.

For the Caramel Filling

Caramel Candies – Create a luscious, gooey center that makes these bars special; you can also use soft caramel bits for easier melting.
Heavy Cream – Helps melt the caramel, creating that smooth filling everyone loves.
Coarse Sea Salt – Perfectly balances the sweetness; adjust the amount to your liking to enhance flavor.

Let’s gather these ingredients and get ready to whip up something unforgettable!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This preparation ensures that your Salted Caramel Butter Bars will release effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together room temperature unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Next, stir in pure vanilla extract, followed by gradually incorporating all-purpose flour until a thick dough forms. This dough will create the delightful crust and topping.

Step 3: Press and Bake the Bottom Layer
Take approximately half to two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a solid layer. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on it, as you want it just set but not overly browned.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel
While the crust bakes, unwrap the caramel candies and place them in a saucepan with heavy cream. Stir continuously over low heat until the mixture melts together into a smooth, luscious caramel. This process typically takes around 5-7 minutes. Removing it from heat promptly will ensure it stays velvety and creamy.

Step 5: Layer the Caramel
Once the crust is done baking, carefully pour the melted caramel over the warm, golden layer, spreading it evenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle a generous amount of coarse sea salt over the caramel while it’s still warm, allowing the salt to infuse and balance the sweetness of the filling.

Step 6: Add the Topping
Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer, ensuring an even distribution without pressing it down too hard. This will create a beautiful texture contrast on top of your Salted Caramel Butter Bars. With the topping in place, it’s time for another baking session.

Step 7: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes. The topping should be set and lightly golden when you check it. Avoid overbaking; a slightly soft feel in the center is okay as it will firm up while cooling.

Step 8: Cool and Slice
After baking, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For the best results, transfer the pan to the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, which will help set the caramel and provide cleaner cuts. Once chilled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and slice them into squares to serve.

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Indulging in these salted caramel delights is even better when paired with complementary treats and flavors that elevate the experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cold vanilla contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey bars, adding an extra layer of indulgence.
Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries bring a tartness that cuts through the sweetness, enhancing each bite with fresh flavor.
Chocolate Drizzle: A drizzle of rich chocolate sauce adds a luxurious touch, making every bite feel like a special occasion.
Coffee: A cup of coffee balances out the sweetness while enhancing the caramel notes, making for a perfect pairing after dinner.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy whipped cream lends a lightness that complements the density of the bars, providing a satisfying texture contrast.
Caramel Sauce: For the ultimate caramel lovers, a side of homemade caramel sauce for dipping takes indulgence to new heights.
Nutty Cookie Crumble: Sprinkling some crushed nutty cookies over each bar adds an extra crunch and extra nutty flavor for more depth.
Chai Tea: The warm spices from chai tea offer a comforting contrast to the rich flavors of the bars, creating a cozy dessert experience.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing sparkling water adds a light fizz that helps cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the sweetness of the bars.
Sea Salt Caramel Milkshake: Creamy, indulgent, and sweet—this decadent shake turns your dessert into a real treat, full of nostalgic flavors.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Variations

Feel free to indulge your creativity by customizing these delicious bars to suit your taste buds!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch that complements the gooey caramel.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Choco Delight: Swap caramel for a rich chocolate ganache for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
Cookie Crumble: Layer crushed cookies, like Oreos or vanilla wafers, into the middle for a unique and textural surprise.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruits like cherries or cranberries for a hint of tartness that balances the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the caramel filling for a surprising warmth that elevates the flavor profile.
Salted Toffee: Mix in toffee bits into the crust for an extra layer of buttery, caramel goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Seasonal Flavors: Infuse the caramel with a touch of pumpkin spice or peppermint extract, depending on the season, for a festive touch.

For more delightful ideas, you might enjoy my recipe for Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter Parmesan or check out the sweet treat of Greek Yogurt Peanut Butter Bites with Chocolate Chips. Enjoy customizing your dessert experience!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing; this makes the dough creamy and uniform.
Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the crust and topping; overbaking can lead to hard bars. Aim for a lightly golden crust for the best texture.
Chill Before Cutting: For clean, neat slices, chill the bars in the fridge before cutting. This sets the caramel nicely.
Stir Constantly: When melting the caramel, stir continuously to avoid scorching, ensuring a smooth filling.
Customize with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or switch caramel for chocolate ganache. Personalize your Salted Caramel Butter Bars!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Room Temperature: Store your Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Refrigerator: They can also be refrigerated for up to a week, which helps maintain their gooey texture while adding a cool touch.
Freezer: To freeze, tightly wrap the bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bars in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare the crust and caramel filling up to 24 hours in advance by simply baking the crust and making the caramel before refrigerating them separately. To maintain their delightful texture, wrap the cooled crust tightly in plastic wrap and store the caramel in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your dessert, reheat the caramel gently while the crust comes to room temperature, then layer the two and top with the crumbled dough. Bake as directed, and you’ll have these delectable bars ready to impress, just as if they were freshly made!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right caramel candies for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality caramel candies, as they significantly impact the texture and flavor of your Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Look for soft, individually wrapped caramels, as they melt best. If you can, go for brands that use real sugar instead of corn syrup for a richer taste. Alternatively, you can use caramel bits, which are specifically designed for melting and are a convenient option!

What’s the best way to store Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
To keep your Salted Caramel Butter Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to enjoy them longer, refrigerating them extends their freshness up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature for that delightful gooey texture when serving.

Can I freeze my Salted Caramel Butter Bars? If so, how?
Certainly! Freezing your Salted Caramel Butter Bars is simple. First, let them cool completely. Then, tightly wrap the bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours!

Why did my bars turn out crumbly instead of gooey?
Very commonly, this issue arises from overbaking. Be sure to keep an eye on them while they bake; they should be lightly golden on top. If you find your bars turning crumbly, it may also be due to not incorporating enough moisture in the caramel filling. Ensure your heavy cream measurement is precise for a silky, smooth caramel layer.

Can I make a gluten-free version of Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Absolutely! To make these delicious bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Many blends work just as beautifully, giving you that same tender texture. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy this delightful dessert worry-free!