Description
Salted caramel butter bars melt hearts with their irresistible blend of sweet and salty flavors. Buttery, rich layers promise a delightful dessert experience that lingers long after the last crumbly bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (907 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 grams) white sugar
Sweeteners and Flavors:
- 1.5 cups (170 grams) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 11.5 ounces (326 grams) jar salted caramel sauce
- Sea salt (to taste)
Instructions
- Transform butter and sugar into a cloud-like mixture using an electric mixer until light and airy, blending in powdered sugar and vanilla extract for depth of flavor.
- Gently fold flour into the creamy mixture, creating a delicate, pliable dough that will form the foundation of these luxurious bars.
- Carefully spread half the dough across the prepared baking pan, creating an even, smooth base layer that will cradle the caramel.
- Slide the remaining dough into the refrigerator to firm up while preparing the initial crust.
- Warm the oven to a precise 325°F, positioning the rack in the center to ensure even baking.
- Line the baking pan with aluminum foil, generously coating with non-stick spray to prevent any potential sticking.
- Bake the initial dough layer for approximately 15 minutes, allowing it to develop a light golden hue and subtle crispness.
- Drizzle rich, velvety caramel across the partially baked crust, ensuring complete and even coverage.
- Retrieve the chilled dough and delicately crumble it over the caramel, creating a rustic, textured topping.
- Sprinkle a delicate layer of sea salt across the surface, enhancing the sweet-savory flavor profile.
- Return the pan to the oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the top achieves a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate to set before slicing into decadent squares.
Notes
- Chill the dough before pressing into the pan to prevent sticking and ensure a more even, compact base.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce or make your own for a richer, more authentic flavor that elevates the entire dessert.
- Sprinkle sea salt sparingly to create a perfect balance between sweet and salty, enhancing the caramel’s depth.
- Allow bars to cool completely and set in the refrigerator for clean, precise cuts and a firmer texture that holds together beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 60 mg