Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s ooey, gooey, and downright irresistible, these Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are your new best friend. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy weekend, or a special occasion, these bars will surely steal the spotlight with their perfect blend of chocolate and caramel. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- Rich and Gooey: These bars combine the melty goodness of chocolate with luscious caramel.
- Simple to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll have these bars ready in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for parties, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or even a sweet breakfast option.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Directions
1. Prepare Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Combine the Mixtures
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in the chocolate chips.
5. Assemble the Bars
Spread half of the dough into the prepared pan, pour the caramel sauce evenly over the dough, and then carefully spread the remaining dough on top.
6. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and set. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into bars.
Notes
- For added flavor, sprinkle sea salt on top before baking. Learn more about salted caramel.
- You can use store-bought caramel or make your own. Here’s a simple caramel sauce recipe.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of your favorite nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Dark Chocolate Twist: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Peanut Butter Layer: Add a layer of peanut butter for a creamy twist.
Required Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Wire rack
Storage Instructions
Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Suggested Pairings
Serve these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee for a delightful experience.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too sticky to handle. Learn more about chilling dough.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cutting of bars.
FAQ
- Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
- What can I do if I don’t have caramel sauce? You can melt some caramel candies with a splash of milk as a substitute.
- How do I prevent the bars from sticking? Lining your pan with parchment paper or greasing it thoroughly helps prevent sticking.