Irresistible Salted Caramel Butter Bars: Your Ultimate Easy Salty-Sweet Dessert

Prepare to fall in love with these **Salted Caramel Butter Bars** – a truly simple yet spectacularly delicious treat that combines a rich, buttery shortbread crumble with a luscious, salty-sweet caramel filling. This dessert is designed for those moments when you crave pure indulgence without the fuss, delivering a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite.

Caramel Butter Bars cut with caramel pull

In a world that often feels overwhelmingly busy and stressful, a simple, delicious dessert can be a true lifesaver. And when that dessert features the magical combination of salted caramel and rich butter, you know you’re onto something special. These **Salted Caramel Butter Bars** are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a comforting escape, a little slice of happiness that requires minimal effort for maximum reward. They are, quite frankly, miracle-workers for the soul!

These delectable **salted caramel butter bars** have become a staple in my kitchen, and for good reason. Their brilliance lies in their remarkable simplicity: both the base crust and the crumbly topping are made from the exact same buttery shortbread dough. This ingenious trick cuts down on prep time and dishes, making them a fantastic choice for busy bakers. Plus, you have the flexibility to either whip up your own homemade salted caramel sauce or opt for the convenience of melting down pre-made caramel candies. Either way, the results are absolutely divine!

When I’m in need of a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and my schedule is tight, these **easy caramel bars** are always at the top of my list. They join the ranks of other beloved, low-effort desserts like my classic 7 layer bars, indulgent old-fashioned butterscotch blondies, or my perfectly chewy white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. If I have a little extra time to spare and want to impress, I might also consider these delightful maple pecan pie bars or a rich salted caramel chocolate pecan pie. But for sheer simplicity and widespread appeal, these butter bars truly stand out.

Caramel Butter Bars unsliced in vintage baking pan

This fantastic recipe, adapted from the brilliant Cookies & Cups, proves that I’m not alone in turning to butter-laden treats to brighten even the gloomiest of days. Shelly’s original creation has inspired countless smiles, and I’m thrilled to share my take on these delightful bars with you.

While these **salted caramel butter bars** might look sophisticated enough to be served at a fancy bakery, I promise you they are astonishingly straightforward to make. The secret to their effortless elegance? Both the sturdy bottom crust and the irresistible crumbly topping are created from a single, easy-to-manage shortbread dough. This means less mixing, fewer ingredients to measure, and a foolproof path to a stunning dessert. It’s truly easy peasy, making them ideal for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

The Sweet & Simple Lowdown on Salted Caramel Butter Bars

One of the most appealing aspects of these **salted caramel butter bars** is how quickly they come together. I often find myself with a batch baking in the oven within minutes, with the majority of the total time simply waiting for the bars to reach golden perfection. The hands-on prep is incredibly minimal, allowing you to enjoy your kitchen’s sweet aroma without feeling tied to the counter.

For the luscious caramel filling, you have wonderful flexibility. I frequently use my homemade salted caramel, especially if I have some leftover from other projects like my salted caramel cupcakes. However, don’t hesitate to simplify things further by using a bag of store-bought caramel candies. Just melt them down with a little milk or cream, and you’ll have a perfectly gooey filling ready to go. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability to your schedule and preference.

When it comes to texture, you’re also in control. I sometimes bake my bars a bit longer than the recommended time, resulting in a slightly crunchier bottom crust and topping, which adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft caramel. However, this is purely a personal preference! If you prefer a softer, chewier bar that melts in your mouth, simply stick to the suggested baking time. Either way, these bars are guaranteed to be utterly delicious and will vanish from your dessert platter in no time.

Beyond their incredible taste, these bars represent the ultimate comfort food experience. Imagine pairing a warm, chewy **salted caramel butter bar** with your favorite cozy activity. For me, few things beat indulging in a rich dessert while catching up on some TV or simply relaxing. It’s the perfect antidote to a long day, much like a refreshing no-bake blueberry cheesecake bar.

While I didn’t get a chance to watch Shark Week live this year (a small tear escapes just thinking about it!), I found immense joy and humor in all the related memes and e-cards circulating online. There’s something universally uplifting about good humor and good food.

So, why not create your own perfect recipe for happiness? Pop a batch of these glorious **Salted Caramel Butter Bars** into the oven, let their sweet aroma fill your home, and then settle onto the couch for some much-needed relaxation. Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite show or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these bars are the ideal companion. You’re welcome for this little secret to blissful indulgence!

Caramel Butter Bars sliced stacked detail

If you tried this recipe and absolutely loved it, please take a moment to leave a 🌟 star rating and share your thoughts in the comments below. Your feedback truly makes my day and helps other bakers discover these incredible **salted caramel butter bars**!

4.54 from 13 ratings

Salted Caramel Butter Bars

by

Chef Lindsey

These **Salted Caramel Butter Bars** are incredibly easy to make, yet yield a truly gourmet result! A rich, buttery shortbread crumble forms both the tender base and the crunchy topping, cradling a luscious salted caramel filling. This delightful combination creates the perfect salty-sweet dessert that’s sure to impress any crowd. Simple, satisfying, and utterly irresistible!

Prep:

5
minutes

Cook:

40
minutes

Total:

45
minutes

Servings:

24
people

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Ingredients

For the Buttery Shortbread Crust and Crumble:

▢

2
cups

salted butter

room temperature
▢

1
cup

granulated sugar
▢

1 ½
cups

powdered sugar
▢

2
tablespoons

vanilla extract
▢

4
cups

all-purpose flour

sifted for best results

For the Salted Caramel Filling:

▢

1
14 oz bag
caramel candies
unwrapped
▢

⅓
cup
milk or heavy cream
▢

½
teaspoon

vanilla extract
▢

1
tablespoon
coarse sea salt
for sprinkling, adjust to taste

Instructions

Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by generously buttering it or lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. This step is crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring clean slices.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened, room-temperature salted butter with both the granulated sugar and powdered sugar. Beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed. Add the vanilla extract and beat until just combined.
Form the Dough: Gradually add the sifted all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed. Continue to mix until a smooth, soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the shortbread tough. The dough should come together easily and be pliable.
Bake the Base: Take about one-third of the prepared shortbread dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your lined or buttered 9×13-inch baking pan. Press firmly to create a compact base. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are a delicate pale golden brown. While the base bakes, refrigerate the remaining two-thirds of the dough; this will make it easier to crumble later.
Prepare Caramel (if using candies): If you’re opting for the convenience of caramel candies, begin preparing your filling while the shortbread crust bakes.
Melt the Caramels: Place the unwrapped caramel candies and the milk or cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high for 1 minute. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and fully melted. If any lumps remain, continue microwaving in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each, until the caramel is completely fluid and creamy.
Finish the Caramel Filling: Once the caramels are melted and smooth, stir in the ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Set the caramel filling aside, allowing it to cool slightly, until your bottom crust has finished baking. If you are using homemade salted caramel sauce, ensure it is at a pourable consistency.
Assemble the Bars: Once the crust is lightly golden, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Pour the warm caramel filling evenly over the baked shortbread crust. Immediately sprinkle the coarse sea salt over the caramel layer. Retrieve the remaining two-thirds of the dough from the refrigerator and crumble it evenly over the caramel layer, creating a delightful top crust.
Final Bake: Return the assembled bars to the oven and continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel filling is bubbling around the edges and the top shortbread crumble is firm and lightly golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before attempting to cut them into squares. I know, I know… the temptation to cut into these warm, gooey bars is immense! But waiting for them to cool ensures clean cuts and a perfectly set caramel. (Go ahead, cut a tiny corner piece for “quality control” – you deserve it after all that hard work!)

Notes

Yield: Approximately 24 delicious bars, perfect for sharing (or not!).

Caramel Shortcut: For an even quicker process, you can substitute the caramel candies and cream with 1 cup of ready-made homemade salted caramel sauce or your favorite store-bought brand. This keeps the recipe wonderfully adaptable.

Smaller Batch Option: If you’re baking for a smaller group or simply have less willpower than I do (where butter and caramel are concerned, who doesn’t?), this recipe can easily be halved. Simply use an 8×8-inch baking dish to yield about 16 squares.

Storage: These **salted caramel butter bars** keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and chewiness. They’re also fantastic frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe adapted with love from Cookies and Cups, a true inspiration for simple, comforting desserts.

Nutrition

Course:
Dessert, Bars

Cuisine:
American

Calories:
287

Enjoyed this recipe? Leave a comment below!

Before You Go: Explore More Delicious Treats!

I genuinely hope you enjoyed this professional chef-tested recipe for **Salted Caramel Butter Bars**. These bars are a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. If you’re anything like me, you’ll find them becoming a regular feature in your baking rotation.

Craving more comforting, easy-to-make desserts? Be sure to explore our other delightful Brownies and Bars Recipes. You might particularly love our rich Baileys Irish Coffee Caramel Brownie recipe, which offers another fantastic twist on a classic. And for the ultimate indulgence, why not pair these bars with a scoop of my velvety homemade Chocolate Ice Cream? It’s a match made in dessert heaven!

Happy baking, and remember, a little butter and caramel can truly make any day better!