If you have a sweet spot for luscious, buttery treats with a perfect hint of saltiness, then this Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe is going to be your new obsession. Imagine layers of tender, buttery crust paired with a rich, gooey caramel filling, topped generously with a sprinkle of sea salt that elevates every bite. It’s a delightful dance of flavors and textures that feels both indulgent and comforting, making these bars perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as a special little treat just for yourself.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the buttery base, smooth caramel, and that irresistible balance of sweet and salty.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base and perfect texture for the crust.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds pure sweetness to complement the caramel’s depth.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings a molasses undertone and moisture to keep the bars tender.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The building block for the buttery bar’s structure.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the crust rise just enough without overwhelming the bar’s density.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to both crust and caramel layers.
- 1 cup coconut cream (or plant-based cream alternative): Creates a smooth, rich caramel that’s dairy-free if preferred.
- 1/2 cup brown rice syrup (or maple syrup): Sweetens and thickens the caramel with a gentle, natural flavor.
- Sea salt for topping: Finishing touch that highlights the dessert’s signature salted caramel flavor.
How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish well or line it with parchment paper to make removing the bars easy and keep them intact.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, making your crust tender and nicely textured.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this powdery mix to your butter mixture. This slow addition ensures you get a dough that’s well combined without becoming tough.
Step 4: Add the Vanilla
Stir in the vanilla extract until your dough feels soft but not sticky. The vanilla infuses a subtle aroma that elevates both the crust and caramel filling.
Step 5: Bake the Crust Layer
Press half of the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish. Bake this base for 10 minutes until it’s set but not overly browned—this provides a sturdy yet tender foundation for your caramel.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the coconut cream and brown rice syrup in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it bubble gently and thicken slightly for about 5 minutes. This luscious caramel is what makes these butter bars incredibly irresistible.
Step 7: Assemble the Bars
Pour your homemade caramel evenly over the baked crust. Then, crumble the remaining dough on top to create a tempting, textured layer that will bake into crispy bits.
Step 8: Final Bake and Salt
Bake everything together for 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling at the edges. Once out of the oven and still warm, sprinkle sea salt on top. This last step provides that memorable salted caramel punch and a lovely contrast in flavor.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate pairs beautifully with the salted caramel. For an extra treat, add chopped nuts or even a dollop of whipped cream on each serving.
Side Dishes
While these bars are decadent on their own, serving them alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an unforgettable dessert experience that balances richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, cut the bars into small bite-sized squares and serve on a tray with decorative toothpicks. Wrapping individual squares in parchment paper tied with twine also makes a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to 4 days, making them perfect for grabbing on-the-go moments.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy warm bars, gently reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes, just until the caramel softens and the buttery crust feels freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use regular cream instead of coconut cream?
Absolutely! Regular heavy cream works perfectly if you’re not aiming for a dairy-free version. It creates a rich, smooth caramel just the same.
Is brown rice syrup necessary, or can I substitute it?
You can swap brown rice syrup with maple syrup if that’s what you have on hand. Both lend a lovely sweetness, though the flavor profile might shift slightly.
How do I prevent the bars from becoming too soggy?
Be sure to bake the bottom crust before adding the caramel and topping. This step bakes out excess moisture, keeping the bars crisp and delicious rather than soggy.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes! Using plant-based butter and the coconut cream as in the recipe provides a fully vegan Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe without sacrificing taste or texture.
What is the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Cutting the bars when they are fully cooled also helps maintain clean, neat edges.
Final Thoughts
Once you make this Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe, it’s hard not to keep coming back for more. The combination of buttery crust, luscious caramel, and that pinch of sea salt is simply magical. Whether you bake it for family gatherings or treat yourself on a cozy afternoon, these bars promise smiles with every bite. So, go ahead, give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a beloved favorite!
Print
Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Salted Caramel Butter Bars combine a buttery, tender base with a luscious, homemade salted caramel layer and a crumbled buttery topping. Perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt, these bars offer a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Base and Topping
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup coconut cream (or plant-based cream alternative)
- 1/2 cup brown rice syrup (or maple syrup)
- Sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter and sugars mixture, mixing well.
- Add Vanilla and Form Dough: Mix in the vanilla extract until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky, ready to be divided for layering.
- Bake Base Layer: Spread half of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake this layer for 10 minutes to set the crust partially.
- Prepare Caramel Sauce: Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the coconut cream and brown rice syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Assemble Bars: Pour the warm caramel evenly over the partially baked crust. Then, crumble the remaining half of the dough over the caramel layer, creating a crumb topping.
- Final Bake and Cool: Bake the assembled bars for an additional 20 minutes until the top is golden brown. While still warm, sprinkle with sea salt. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into approximately 12 servings.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut cream with any plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
- Maple syrup can be used instead of brown rice syrup for the caramel layer.
- Ensure the dough is soft but manageable to get the perfect crumb texture.
- Sprinkling sea salt while the bars are warm helps the salt stick and enhances the caramel flavor.
- Allow bars to cool completely for clean cutting and the best texture.
