Indulge in the rich and gratifying experience of Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, a dessert that seamlessly merges the lush flavors of chocolate and caramel with a touch of sea salt. This treat is perfect for dessert lovers who seek to enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and savory, and it can be served on any occasion, be it festive gatherings or a casual family dinner. These bars are easy to prepare and offer a unique take on the classic chocolate chip cookie, making them a standout in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients form the cornerstone of any great recipe, and for these decadent bars, you’ll need the following: 1 cup of unsalted butter melted, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract providing the foundational buttery and sweet flavor. The all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt create the structure, with 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt forming the dry mix. Into this base, we introduce chocolate and caramel with 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of caramel bits or melted soft caramel candies. Finally, sea salt is used for sprinkling on top, adding that perfect counterbalance to the sweetness.
Moving on to the preparation and cooking times, these bars require a total of 45 minutes of your time. This includes 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for baking. The yield for this recipe is 24 bars, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.
Following a detailed set of directions ensures the perfect batch every time. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal later. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth, then add the eggs and vanilla extract, stirring until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine these dry ingredients with the wet mixture, ensuring everything is well mixed. Stir in the chocolate chips for an even distribution. Pour half of the cookie dough into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly, and follow this with a drizzle of melted caramel, carefully spreading it atop the cookie layer. Drop the remaining cookie dough over this caramel layer in spoonfuls, gently pressing them to create a uniform cover. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and just set. Upon removal from the oven, immediately sprinkle the top with sea salt. Allow these bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
To ensure the best results, here are some notes: You can experiment with different types of salt such as fleur de sel for an even more elevated flavor. If you prefer a runnier caramel layer, consider using a caramel sauce instead of bits or candies. Be sure not to over-bake; the bars should remain gooey.
In terms of cooking techniques, it is essential to monitor the caramel to prevent it from burning. The key to perfectly gooey bars is to keep them slightly underbaked, as this will ensure a soft and chewy texture after cooling. When placing the top layer of cookie dough, there is no need for perfect coverage, as gaps will allow the caramel to peak through, adding visual appeal.
A few FAQs that may aid your baking experience include: Can these bars be frozen? Yes, these bars freeze well; simply wrap them in parchment and store them in an airtight container for up to three months. What if I don’t have sea salt? Regular table salt can be used sparingly as a substitute.
In conclusion, Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will satisfy any sweet tooth craving, offering both comfort and decadence. Their ease of preparation makes them ideal for any occasion, providing a homemade touch that everyone will appreciate.
For those who enjoyed this recipe, consider trying other combinations and variations such as adding nuts for extra crunch, or using white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts for a different flavor profile. More recipes that could pique your interest include classic chocolate chip cookies with a caramel twist, or a layered brownie and caramel bar that takes indulgence to another level. The options are vast when exploring the world of caramel and chocolate delight.
