Name: Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars That Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (softened); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar; 1/2 cup Granulated White Sugar; 2 large Large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (pure for best flavor); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (reduce to ¾ teaspoon if using table salt); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour; 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk; 14 oz Soft Caramels; 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips; 1 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt

As the sweet scent of melting caramels fills the kitchen, I find myself transported to cozy childhood moments, where desserts were the highlight of any family gathering. These Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars capture that nostalgic feeling, combining melty chocolate and rich caramel in a soft, chewy dessert that’s hard to resist. Not only are they incredibly easy to throw together—perfect for mid-week cravings—but they also serve as a delightful crowd-pleaser for parties or cozy gatherings. With options to customize the flavors, you can make them truly your own. Ready to create a treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Let’s dive into the deliciousness of these cookie bars together!

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Why Are These Cookie Bars A Must-Try?

Indulgent Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars delivers a perfect balance of sweet chocolate and rich caramel, creating a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.

Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it ideal for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute gatherings.

Customizable Treat: Whether you prefer dark chocolate, chopped nuts, or even a touch of coconut, these bars allow you to explore your creativity while keeping the original flavor intact.

Perfect for Sharing: Their chewy texture and gooey center make these bars a hit at parties, family functions, or just cozy nights in—everyone loves them!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or try pairing them with vibrant berries for a refreshing twist, just like with our Chocolate Chip Cookies. This dessert is bound to leave a lasting impression!

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Cookie Batter
• Salted Butter – Imparts a rich flavor; unsalted is a good substitute if you want to manage salt levels.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel notes; dark brown sugar contributes a deeper taste.
• Granulated White Sugar – Sweetens the bars and aids in browning for a beautiful finish.
• Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and provides essential structure.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; use pure vanilla for an intense aroma.
• Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness; reduce to ¾ teaspoon if using table salt.
• Baking Soda – Helps the bars rise and ensures a soft, chewy texture.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates the structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for alternative diets.

For the Gooey Filling
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Central to the gooeyness; no alternative available that matches its texture.
• Soft Caramels – Vital for the filling; homemade caramel can be a delightful swap.

For the Topping
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Offer sweetness and texture; can be replaced with dark or milk chocolate for variety.
• Flaked Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor; avoid using coarse salts for the best effect.

Dive into the magic of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars as you gather your ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare your 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly and lining it with parchment paper for easy removal of the cookie bars later. This step ensures a perfectly baked base for your gooey salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, add softened salted butter along with light brown sugar and granulated white sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugars together on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth base full of sweet flavor.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add the large eggs, vanilla extract, and kosher salt to the creamed mixture. Beat everything together on medium speed until well combined and smooth. This step is crucial as it adds moisture and flavor to your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars, giving them a rich taste and chewy texture.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Next, gradually mix in the baking soda and all-purpose flour, stirring on low speed. Continue until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The dough should come together but still be slightly sticky and thick, ready to hold the delicious chocolate and caramel.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips
Gently fold the semi-sweet chocolate chips into the dough using a spatula. Distribute the chocolate evenly throughout the dough to ensure every bite of your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars is bursting with melty chocolate goodness.

Step 6: Press Dough into the Pan
Take about ¾ of the cookie dough and press it evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a solid base layer. Use your fingers or a spatula to spread it out smoothly, ensuring it covers the entire bottom and reaches the edges of the pan for uniform baking.

Step 7: Prepare the Gooey Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk and soft caramels. Stir continuously for about 5–7 minutes until the caramels are fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This gooey filling is what makes your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars incredibly delightful.

Step 8: Layer the Caramel
Once melted, pour about ¾ of the caramel mixture evenly over the pressed cookie dough layer in the pan. Use a spatula to spread it gently, ensuring that it covers the dough completely. The caramel will add that rich and gooey touch central to these cookie bars.

Step 9: Add the Remaining Dough
Using the remaining ¼ of the cookie dough, drop spoonfuls over the caramel layer in a scattered fashion. Try to cover most of the caramel, leaving some areas exposed to create that beautiful swirled effect once baked. This will give your bars a lovely texture and appearance.

Step 10: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, keeping a close eye on the edges as they should set while the center remains slightly soft. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and firm, and the center has a light jiggle.

Step 11: Finish with Sea Salt
As soon as you remove the pan from the oven, sprinkle flaked sea salt over the top while the bars are still warm. The salt enhances the flavors, creating a perfect balance between sweet and savory. Allow the bars to cool for a few minutes in the pan.

Step 12: Cut and Serve
After cooling completely, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares using a sharp knife for clean edges. Serve your delicious salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars at room temperature, and watch them disappear!

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How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Room Temperature: Store cut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their gooey texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you’d like to extend freshness, refrigerate the bars in an airtight container for up to 1 week; just remember they’ll be firmer out of the fridge.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncut bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To bring back the gooey goodness, reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, and consider drizzling with warm caramel for added decadence!

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine while crafting these delectable cookie bars; delightful surprises await!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture and crunch, making each bite even more satisfying. The nuts complement the gooey caramel beautifully, lending a delightful contrast.
Chocolate Mix: Use a combination of dark and milk chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile, adding depth to the classic cookie experience. The varied chocolate notes will elevate your bars and make every bite an adventure!
Extract Swap: Replace vanilla extract with almond or hazelnut extract for a unique twist on flavor. Each variation infuses its own character, making these cookie bars feel freshly invented every time.
Fruit Fusion: Fold in dried cranberries or raisins for a tangy surprise! The sweetness of the fruit blends with the chocolate and caramel, creating a burst of contrasting flavors that you won’t want to miss.
Coconut Bliss: For a tropical flair, sprinkle shredded coconut over the caramel layer before topping with the remaining dough. The coconut adds a chewy texture that complements the rich flavors wonderfully.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon in the dough for a subtle warmth that marries well with the sweet elements. This surprising twist will awaken your taste buds and invite curious compliments!
Flavored Caramel: Use flavored caramels, such as sea salt or espresso-infused varieties, to introduce exciting new dimensions to your filling. This is a simple way to make your cookie bars uniquely memorable.
Delicious Drizzle: Top the cooled bars with a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel for added indulgence. It’s a visual treat and an extra ordinary way to pack in even more flavor.

For even more ideas, you may enjoy trying these variations alongside the classic Chocolate Chip Cookie or add some flair with our delightful Chocolate Cranberry Cookies. Each recipe offers a unique twist that will surely delight your taste buds!

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and refrigerating it, which helps deepen the flavors. Additionally, the caramel filling can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, keep the cookie dough covered tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the caramel over the pressed dough and add the final layer of dough before baking. This way, you’ll have fresh, gooey treats with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Indulging in these cookie bars is a delightful experience, but pairing them with complementary sides can elevate your dessert game even further.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm cookie bars, enhancing their decadent flavor and providing a delightful cool contrast.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tang, balancing the sweetness of the bars with a burst of fruity brightness.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of light, airy whipped cream on top not only looks inviting but also offers a gentle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the rich chocolate and caramel.
Coffee: A cup of brewed coffee adds a warm, robust flavor that harmonizes with the sweetness of the cookie bars, making for a comforting dessert experience.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea complement the buttery, gooey nature of the bars, creating a cozy pairing perfect for a chill evening.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling additional warm chocolate sauce over the top intensifies the chocolatey goodness, making every bite even more indulgent.
Nuts: Serving the bars with a side of toasted pecans or walnuts adds a crunchy texture, enhancing the overall dessert experience with a satisfying bite.
Caramel Sauce: For true caramel lovers, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on the side will amplify the gooey goodness and make each bite irresistible.

Enjoy crafting a memorable dessert experience with a few simple additions!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Pre-Bake for Stability: By pre-baking the base for 8-10 minutes before adding the caramel, you avoid a soggy texture and ensure a sturdy foundation for your cookie bars.
Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before cutting. This prevents messy edges and helps maintain the gooey caramel center that makes these salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars a delight.
Customize Flavor: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add nuts for variety; just remember that balance is key to keep the cookie bars from overpowering with flavors.
Careful Measuring: When using flour, measure accurately! Avoid packing it down in the cup, as too much flour can lead to dry bars.
Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness at the 25-minute mark. Your bars are perfect when the edges are set, but the center is just slightly soft.
Use Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality chocolate chips and real vanilla extract. These small details elevate your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars to a whole new level!

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

What kind of butter should I use for the cookie bars?
I recommend using salted butter for its rich flavor; however, you can substitute it with unsalted butter if you want to control the salt content. Both options yield delightful results in these cookie bars!

How should I store the leftover cookie bars?
To keep your salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate them where they can last about a week, but they will become firmer when chilled.

Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookie bars, wrap uncut bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. If you want to rejuvenate the gooey texture, microwave individual bars for about 15-20 seconds.

How do I prevent the cookie bars from being too soggy?
Great question! Pre-baking the base for 8-10 minutes before adding the gooey caramel filling helps create a sturdier foundation and prevents sogginess. Additionally, allowing the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting ensures clean edges and maintains the delicious gooey center.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookie bars?
While this recipe is not specifically gluten-free, you can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to different dietary needs. Always check the packaging for potential allergens and feel free to customize the recipe further to suit your preferences!

What if I want to mix up the flavors?
The fun part about these salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars is their versatility! Consider adding nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, or swapping out for dark or milk chocolate chips. You can even drizzle some caramel on top after baking for an extra indulgent touch!