The Most Amazing Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe

Let’s talk about a treat that feels like a warm hug, shall we? Imagine the richest, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread, a layer of gooey, salty-sweet caramel, and a buttery crumble topping that shatters with every bite. That’s the magic of these Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars. They sound decadent (because they are!), but I promise you, they are astonishingly simple to whip up.

These Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars are the kind of recipe that looks like you spent all day in the kitchen, but your secret is safe with me. Whether you need a stunning dessert for a potluck or just a little personal indulgence, these bars are your new best friend.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS RECIPE

You will adore these bars because they are the ultimate trifecta: simple, fast, and unbelievably delicious.

• First of all, the dough is a one-bowl wonder it acts as both the crust and the crumbly topping.
• Secondly, we’re using a genius shortcut with store-bought caramel to save you time and stress. But most importantly, the result is pure bliss.
• The contrast of the buttery base, the creamy salted caramel, and that delicate sprinkle of sea salt creates a flavor that is simply irresistible.

It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort for maximum reward.

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HOW TO MAKE EASY SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS

The process is wonderfully straightforward. We make one simple dough, divide it, and use it for two purposes. First, we press part of it into a pan to bake into a firm, shortbread-like crust. Then, we spread luxurious caramel over that warm base and sprinkle the remaining dough on top. A second bake turns the topping golden and fuses all the layers together.

Finally, a little patience while it chills gives you the perfect, clean slice. It’s a foolproof method that delivers professional-looking results every single time.

INGREDIENTS

Gather these simple ingredients for your Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars:

For the Crust & Topping:

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• ½ teaspoon fine salt

For the Filling:

• 10-12 ounces (about 1 cup) thick salted caramel sauce (a good quality store-bought jar works perfectly!)
• Extra flaky sea salt (like Maldon) for sprinkling

DIRECTIONS

Let’s walk through making these Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars step-by-step.

STEP 1: PREPARE YOUR PAN. Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Then, line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on two sides. This creates “handles” that will make lifting the entire slab of bars out effortlessly later.

STEP 2: MAKE THE DOUGH. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Next, add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until a soft, cohesive dough forms. It will be slightly crumbly but should hold together when pinched.

STEP 3: FORM THE CRUST. Set aside about 1 cup of the dough for your topping. Take the remaining dough and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to get it perfectly smooth and compact. Then, lightly prick the dough all over with a fork. This prevents it from puffing up too much.

STEP 4: BAKE THE CRUST. Bake this crust layer for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn a very light golden brown. Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a cooling rack. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Keep the oven on.

STEP 5: ADD THE CARAMEL LAYER. Pour your caramel sauce over the warm crust. Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it into an even layer, leaving a tiny border around the edges. Immediately sprinkle a little pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel.

STEP 6: ADD THE TOPPING. Take the reserved cup of dough and crumble it evenly over the caramel layer. Don’t press it down; you want those lovely, craggy bits.

STEP 7: FINAL BAKE. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. The topping should be a beautiful, light golden brown.

STEP 8: COOL AND CHILL. This is the most important step for clean cuts! Let the pan cool completely on a wire rack. Then, transfer the entire pan to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the caramel layer is firmly set.

STEP 9: SLICE AND SERVE. Use the parchment paper handles to lift the whole block of bars out of the pan. Place it on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, slice into squares or rectangles. For the cleanest slices, wipe your knife clean with a damp cloth between each cut.

HOW TO SERVE SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS

Serve these Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. They are divine all on their own, but you can certainly gild the lily with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. They pair perfectly with a cup of coffee, black tea, or even a glass of cold milk. They are the ideal portable treat for picnics, bake sales, or holiday gift boxes.

HOW TO STORE SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container. They will keep at room temperature for 2-3 days. For longer storage, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week; just let them come to room temperature before serving for the softest texture. You can also freeze the fully cooled and sliced bars for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

TIPS TO MAKE THE BEST SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS

• Butter Temperature is Key: Your butter should be softened to room temperature, it should yield slightly to gentle pressure but not be greasy or melted. This ensures a perfect dough texture.
• Thick Caramel: Seek out a thick caramel sauce, often labeled “dessert topping” or “dulce de leche.” A runny sauce will make the bars messy and difficult to slice.
• Chill for Success: Don’t skip the chilling step! It solidifies the caramel layer, allowing you to get those stunning, clean-cut squares.
• Customize It: Stir ½ cup of finely chopped toasted pecans or walnuts into the dough for a nutty variation. You can also add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the flour for a warm spice note.

TIPS AND NOTES: YOUR KITCHEN COMPANION

Details: The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. If you only have a 9×9 pan, your bars will be slightly thinner and may bake a few minutes faster. Keep an eye on them!

Variation: For a Chocolate Caramel Twist, add ¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the flour when making the dough. You’ll get a delicious chocolate shortbread base that pairs wonderfully with the caramel.

Notes: If your caramel sauce is too thick to spread easily, you can warm it gently for 10-15 seconds in the microwave. Conversely, if it seems runny, you can simmer it in a small saucepan for 2-3 minutes to thicken it slightly before using.

SALTED CARAMEL BUTTER BARS FAQS

FINAL THOUGHTS: LET’S MAKE

So, what are you waiting for? These Easy Salted Caramel Butter Bars are calling your name. They are the ultimate expression of simple ingredients creating something extraordinary. With minimal fuss and a whole lot of love, you can create a dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Preheat that oven, grab your butter, and let’s make something wonderful together. Happy baking!