These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a decadent and indulgent treat with a buttery, flaky crust, a rich caramel filling, and a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty balance.
Ingredients:
Crust/Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 4 cups |
| Salted butter | 1 pound (4 sticks) |
| Powdered sugar | 1 1/4 cups |
| Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 tablespoons |
Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Caramel candies (unwrapped) | 50-60 pieces (14 oz. bag) |
| Heavy cream | 1/3 cup |
| Sea salt | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Crust/Topping:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Combine flour, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl.
- Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press half of the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Set the remaining mixture aside.
-
Make the Caramel Filling:
- Combine caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.
- Stir in sea salt and vanilla extract.
-
Assemble the Bars:
- Pour caramel mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the reserved crust mixture evenly over the caramel layer.
-
Bake and Cool:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let cool in the baking dish for 30 minutes.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the caramel layer is set.
- Cut into bars and enjoy!
