Introduction:
Salted Caramel Butter Bars are an exquisite treat that perfectly balances the rich sweetness of caramel with a buttery shortbread base and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance every flavor note. These bars are a delightful indulgence, combining contrasting textures and complementary tastes that make them utterly irresistible.
Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery, crumbly shortbread crust, topped with a layer of smooth, gooey caramel that’s both sweet and slightly salty. The touch of sea salt on top not only elevates the sweetness but also adds a sophisticated edge to this classic confection. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures, making these bars a perfect treat for dessert, special occasions, or a luxurious afternoon snack.
Whether you’re a fan of caramel, shortbread, or simply love a well-balanced sweet and salty dessert, Salted Caramel Butter Bars are destined to become a new favorite. Their simplicity in preparation belies their gourmet taste, making them an impressive yet easy treat to bake and share. Prepare to experience dessert perfection in every delicious square.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
You’ll absolutely adore this Salted Caramel Butter Bars recipe for its harmonious blend of flavors and textures, and for how surprisingly easy it is to create such an impressive dessert. This recipe perfectly balances the buttery, crumbly shortbread with a rich, gooey caramel layer, and then elevates it all with the perfect sprinkle of sea salt.
Firstly, the taste is simply divine. The buttery shortbread base provides a subtly sweet and sturdy foundation that beautifully complements the luscious, homemade caramel. The salted caramel is not overly sweet; the salt cuts through the richness, enhancing the caramel flavor and creating a truly addictive taste.
Secondly, the texture contrast is wonderful. You get the satisfying crumbly bite of the shortbread followed by the smooth, chewy caramel, creating a delightful sensory experience with every bite. It’s a treat that’s both comforting and refined.
Thirdly, despite their elegant taste and presentation, these bars are remarkably straightforward to make. The shortbread base is a simple press-in dough, and the caramel, while requiring a bit of attention, is easily achievable for home bakers of all levels.
Finally, they are incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a treat to impress guests, a special dessert for a family gathering, or just a luxurious indulgence for yourself, Salted Caramel Butter Bars are always a hit. Their ease, combined with their gourmet flavor, makes them a recipe you’ll return to time and time again.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
To create these delectable Salted Caramel Butter Bars, you will need a selection of simple, high-quality, and pantry-friendly ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the layers of flavor and texture in this irresistible treat. Let’s explore each ingredient and its contribution to the final recipe.
For the Shortbread Base, you will need:
All-purpose flour forms the structure of the shortbread base, providing a tender and crumbly texture. Plain all-purpose flour is perfect for achieving that classic shortbread consistency.
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed, is the key to the buttery flavor and crumbly texture of the shortbread. Using cold butter and cutting it into the flour creates pockets of fat that result in a flaky and tender base. Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level precisely.
Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the shortbread base, complementing the buttery flavor and providing a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the caramel.
Salt, a pinch, enhances the flavors of the shortbread and balances the sweetness, even in the base layer.
For the Salted Caramel Filling, you will need:
Unsalted butter is the foundation of the rich and gooey caramel, adding flavor, richness, and a smooth texture. Again, unsalted butter allows for precise salt control in the caramel.
Packed light brown sugar is essential for creating the classic caramel flavor. Brown sugar adds moisture, depth of flavor, and a hint of molasses to the caramel. Light brown sugar works best for a balanced sweetness and caramel depth.
Sweetened condensed milk is the magic ingredient that creates a smooth, creamy, and gooey caramel texture. It provides the richness and sweetness necessary for a perfect caramel filling. Do not substitute with evaporated milk; sweetened condensed milk is essential.
Light corn syrup (optional, for smoother caramel) helps to prevent sugar crystallization and ensures a smooth, glossy, and pourable caramel. It’s particularly useful in achieving a perfectly smooth texture, but can be omitted if you prefer a slightly less smooth caramel.
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the caramel, adding a warm, aromatic note that complements the butter and sugar. Pure vanilla extract provides the best flavor.
Salt is crucial in the caramel layer to create the signature salted caramel flavor. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel’s depth of flavor. Adjust the amount of salt to your preference for saltiness.
For the Salted Topping, you will need:
Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon or fleur de sel, is essential for the salted topping. Flaky sea salt provides a delicate crunch and bursts of saltiness that perfectly complement the sweet caramel and buttery shortbread. Its texture and flavor are superior to regular table salt for finishing.
HOW TO MAKE “Salted Caramel Butter Bars”:
Making Salted Caramel Butter Bars involves three main components: baking the shortbread base, making the salted caramel filling, and assembling and finishing the bars. While each step requires attention to detail, the process is straightforward and results in a truly rewarding and decadent treat. Let’s outline the general method to understand the flow of the recipe.
First, you will prepare and bake the shortbread base. This involves making a simple shortbread dough, pressing it into a baking pan, and baking until lightly golden. Baking the shortbread base first provides a sturdy foundation for the caramel.
Next, you will make the salted caramel filling. This involves melting butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup (if using), then whisking in sweetened condensed milk and simmering until thickened and caramelized. Making the caramel requires some attention to temperature and stirring to prevent burning and achieve the right consistency.
Then, you will assemble the bars. The hot caramel filling is poured over the baked shortbread base and spread evenly. Assembling while the caramel is hot ensures it spreads smoothly and adheres well to the shortbread.
Finally, you will add the salted topping and let the bars set. Flaky sea salt is sprinkled over the warm caramel, and the bars are allowed to cool and set completely before cutting and serving. Cooling and setting are crucial for the bars to firm up and for the flavors to meld together.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Let’s delve into a more detailed, step-by-step guide for preparing your Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Each step is broken down further to provide clarity and ensure even beginner bakers can confidently create this elegant and flavorful treat at home.
Part 1: Making the Shortbread Base
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Pan.
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift out the bars later. Preparing the baking pan with parchment overhang makes it easy to remove the finished bars cleanly from the pan.
Step 2: Make Shortbread Dough.
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Whisk together until well combined. Adding dry ingredients first ensures even distribution. Add cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut or rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining. The mixture should resemble damp sand with small clumps of butter. This process is crucial for creating a tender and crumbly shortbread.
Step 3: Press Dough into Pan.
Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a spoon to create a uniform and compact layer across the bottom of the pan. Pressing firmly ensures a smooth and even shortbread base.
Step 4: Bake Shortbread Base.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is just set. The shortbread should be lightly golden, not deeply browned, to maintain its tender texture. Baking until just set prevents it from becoming too dry. Remove from oven and set aside while you prepare the caramel. Leave the oven on at 325°F (165°C) for baking the caramel layer.
Part 2: Making the Salted Caramel Filling
Step 1: Combine Caramel Ingredients.
In a medium saucepan, combine unsalted butter, packed light brown sugar, and light corn syrup (if using). Place the saucepan over medium heat. Combining these ingredients in the saucepan prepares for the caramel cooking process.
Step 2: Melt and Simmer Caramel.
Melt butter over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once butter is melted, stir in sweetened condensed milk. Continue to stir constantly to prevent scorching, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring frequently, for about 8-10 minutes, or until the caramel has thickened slightly and deepened in color. The caramel should be simmering gently and thickening slowly. Stirring frequently is essential to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. The caramel is ready when it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon and has deepened in color to a light amber. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become too thick and hard once cooled.
Step 3: Finish Caramel.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt. Stirring in vanilla and salt off the heat preserves their flavors and prevents them from cooking off. Stir until well combined.
Part 3: Assembling and Setting the Bars
Step 1: Pour Caramel over Shortbread Base.
Immediately pour the hot caramel filling evenly over the baked shortbread base in the pan. Use a spatula to spread the caramel evenly to all edges of the shortbread. Pouring while hot makes it spread easily and evenly.
Step 2: Sprinkle with Flaky Sea Salt.
Sprinkle flaky sea salt generously and evenly over the top of the warm caramel layer. Sprinkle while the caramel is still warm so the salt adheres properly and slightly melts into the surface.
Step 3: Cool and Set.
Let the bars cool completely at room temperature for about 1-2 hours, or until the caramel is set and firm. For quicker setting, you can refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Cooling allows the caramel to firm up and the bars to become easier to cut. Cooling at room temperature is preferred for best caramel texture, but refrigeration can speed up the process.
Step 4: Cut and Serve.
Once the bars are fully set, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, you can wipe the knife clean between each cut and even chill the bars briefly before cutting. Serve Salted Caramel Butter Bars at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy this decadent treat!
USEFUL TIPS:
To consistently create perfect Salted Caramel Butter Bars, consider these helpful tips. These suggestions cover key aspects from ingredient preparation to baking and cooling techniques, designed to elevate your bar-making skills and ensure a flawless outcome every time.
Use cold butter for the shortbread base. Cold butter is crucial for creating a tender, crumbly shortbread. Work quickly to keep the butter cold while mixing the dough.
Don’t overmix the shortbread dough. Mix the shortbread dough just until it comes together. Overmixing can develop gluten and make the shortbread tough. Mix until just combined and crumbly.
Press the shortbread base firmly and evenly into the pan. A firmly and evenly pressed base will bake uniformly and provide a sturdy foundation for the caramel. Use the flat bottom of a measuring cup or a spatula to ensure an even layer.
Watch the caramel carefully while cooking. Caramel can burn easily. Stir frequently and keep the heat at medium-low to prevent scorching. Constant stirring and controlled heat are key to a smooth, burn-free caramel.
Cook the caramel to the right consistency. The caramel should thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t overcook it to a very thick stage in the saucepan. Cooking to the correct thickness ensures a gooey, but not too hard, caramel layer in the finished bars.
Use flaky sea salt for the topping. Flaky sea salt provides a distinct burst of saltiness and a pleasant crunch that enhances the caramel flavor. It’s preferred over regular table salt for finishing desserts.
Let the bars cool and set completely before cutting. Patience is key. Allowing the bars to cool completely ensures the caramel sets properly and the bars are easier to cut cleanly. Rushing the cooling process can result in messy, gooey bars.
For cleaner cuts, chill the bars briefly before cutting and use a warm, clean, sharp knife. Chilling the bars slightly firms up the caramel, making them easier to cut neatly. Warming the knife by dipping it in hot water and wiping it dry between cuts helps to slice through the caramel cleanly.
Line the baking pan with parchment paper with an overhang for easy removal. Parchment paper with overhang acts as handles to lift the entire batch of bars out of the pan easily and neatly once they are set.
DETAILS:
Let’s explore the specific details of this Salted Caramel Butter Bars recipe. Understanding these details will help you plan your baking process and appreciate the elements that contribute to the bars’ overall success and delightful characteristics.
Prep Time: Approximately 25 minutes. This includes time to prepare shortbread dough, make caramel, and prepare baking pan. Efficient preparation makes the baking process smoother.
Bake Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes for shortbread base, plus cooling time for bars to set. Baking time for the shortbread is precise to achieve the desired texture. Cooling time is essential for the bars to firm up properly.
Total Time: Approximately 2-3 hours (including baking and cooling/setting time). This represents the combined prep, baking, and cooling times, providing a clear picture of the total time commitment from start to finish. While baking is relatively short, cooling time is significant.
Yield: 16-25 bars (depending on cut size). An 8×8 inch pan typically yields 16-25 bars, depending on whether you cut them into squares or smaller rectangles. Yield can vary slightly based on cutting preference.
Category: Dessert, Bars, Sweet Treat, Baking. Salted Caramel Butter Bars clearly fall into the category of desserts and bar cookies, designed as a sweet treat and made through baking.
Method: Baking, Stovetop (Caramel). The shortbread base is made through baking in the oven. The caramel filling is made on the stovetop using a saucepan.
Cuisine: American, Dessert-focused. This recipe is American in style, focusing on classic dessert flavors and techniques. It’s a modern American take on caramel treats.
Diet: Vegetarian. This recipe is vegetarian, containing dairy and gluten but no meat or eggs. It’s a rich vegetarian dessert option.
NOTES:
Consider these additional notes for making your Salted Caramel Butter Bars even more personalized and successful. These insights provide flexibility and address potential variations, ingredient substitutions, and important considerations for different preferences and situations.
For a richer shortbread base, you can use half all-purpose flour and half almond flour. Almond flour adds a nutty flavor and slightly denser texture to the shortbread base.
If you want to add a chocolate layer, melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips with a teaspoon of butter or coconut oil and spread it over the set caramel layer. Let the chocolate set completely in the refrigerator before cutting. Chocolate and caramel are a classic pairing that enhances these bars.
For extra flavor in the caramel, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the caramel mixture while cooking. These additions will add depth and complexity to the caramel flavor profile.
If you don’t have flaky sea salt, you can use kosher salt or coarse sea salt, but flaky salt provides the best texture and flavor bursts. If using finer salt, use slightly less as it is more concentrated.
For a vegan version (challenging but possible), you would need to substitute butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative and sweetened condensed milk with a vegan sweetened condensed milk alternative (if available, or make your own from coconut milk and sugar, which is more complex and will alter flavor slightly). Vegan caramel can be trickier to achieve the same texture, so recipe adjustments may be necessary.
For a make-ahead option, the shortbread base can be baked a day ahead and stored at room temperature in an airtight container. The caramel can also be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat caramel gently before pouring over the shortbread. Assemble and let set as directed when ready to serve.
If your caramel becomes too thick while cooking, you can add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out slightly. Add liquid gradually and stir until smooth and desired consistency is reached.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Let’s address some frequently asked questions about making Salted Caramel Butter Bars. These answers are designed to provide clarity and solutions to common queries, ensuring a smooth and successful baking experience.
Q: Can I use a different size pan?
A: Yes, you can use a 9×13 inch pan, but the bars will be thinner. You may need to adjust the baking time for the shortbread base and possibly the cooking time for the caramel slightly. For a thicker bar, stick to an 8×8 inch pan. If using a larger pan, the baking and setting times might be shorter due to thinner layers.
Q: My caramel is too thin/too thick. What did I do wrong?
A: Caramel consistency is crucial. If too thin, it likely wasn’t cooked long enough. Continue to simmer and stir, checking for thickness by coating the back of a spoon. If too thick, you may have overcooked it slightly. In that case, you can try stirring in a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out while it’s still hot. Caramel thickness is affected by cooking time and temperature.
Q: Can I substitute evaporated milk for sweetened condensed milk?
A: No, do not substitute evaporated milk for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe. Sweetened condensed milk is essential for the caramel’s texture and sweetness. Evaporated milk is unsweetened and has a different consistency, which will not produce the desired caramel texture.
Q: Can I make these bars without corn syrup?
A: Yes, you can omit light corn syrup, but it helps prevent sugar crystallization and results in a smoother caramel. Without corn syrup, your caramel might be slightly more prone to graininess. If omitting, ensure you stir the caramel constantly and cook it to the correct thickness carefully.
Q: How do I store leftover Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
A: Store leftover Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week for longer shelf life, especially in warmer climates. Refrigeration can make the caramel firmer, so let them come to room temperature for a softer caramel texture before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
A: Yes, Salted Caramel Butter Bars can be frozen. Cut the cooled and set bars into squares, wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. Freezing may slightly alter the texture of the caramel and shortbread, but they generally freeze well.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Proper storage is essential to maintain the quality and flavor of your Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Follow these instructions to ensure your delightful treats remain delicious even after being stored.
Room Temperature Storage: Store Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Storing at room temperature keeps the caramel soft and gooey, and the shortbread retains its crumbly texture. This is ideal for short-term storage.
Refrigeration (Recommended for Longer Storage or Warm Climates): For longer storage, or in warmer climates, store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Refrigerated bars will last for up to a week. Refrigeration will firm up the caramel and shortbread, making them chewier and denser, but extends their shelf life. Let them come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving if you prefer a softer caramel texture.
Freezing (For Longer Term Storage): For longer-term storage, Salted Caramel Butter Bars can be frozen. Cut the cooled and set bars into individual squares. Wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Thawing may slightly alter the texture, particularly of the caramel, but they generally freeze well.
RELATED RECIPES
If you enjoyed the rich and decadent Salted Caramel Butter Bars, you’ll surely appreciate these other related caramel and bar recipes. These dishes offer similar comforting qualities, delightful caramel flavors, or feature buttery shortbread bases in different and delicious ways.
Millionaire’s Shortbread (Classic Caramel & Chocolate Bars): For a classic bar with a similar structure, try Millionaire’s Shortbread. This iconic treat features a shortbread base, a layer of caramel, and a chocolate topping. It’s very similar to Salted Caramel Butter Bars, often with a thicker chocolate layer.
Caramel Brownie Bars (Caramel with Chocolate Base): If you love brownies and caramel, Caramel Brownie Bars are an excellent choice. Fudgy brownies are topped with a layer of homemade caramel, creating a decadent and chocolatey caramel treat. The chewy brownie base offers a different texture from shortbread.
Caramelitas (Oatmeal Caramel Bars): For a chewy and oaty caramel bar, try Caramelitas. These bars feature an oatmeal base and topping with a gooey caramel and chocolate chip filling in the center. They are less buttery than shortbread-based bars but offer a delightful chewy texture.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (Cookies Meet Caramel): If you enjoy cookies and caramel, Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a perfect hybrid. Soft and chewy chocolate chip cookie bars are swirled with salted caramel, combining two beloved dessert flavors into one bar.
Butterscotch Blondies with Salted Caramel Swirl (Butterscotch & Caramel): For a butterscotch twist, Butterscotch Blondies with Salted Caramel Swirl are a must-try. Chewy butterscotch blondies are swirled with homemade salted caramel, creating a rich and flavorful blondie bar with caramel notes.
CONCLUSION
Salted Caramel Butter Bars are more than just a dessert; they are a testament to how simple, high-quality ingredients, when combined with care and a touch of salt, can create a truly sublime and unforgettable treat. With their perfect balance of buttery shortbread, gooey salted caramel, and flaky sea salt, these bars are an irresistible indulgence that’s both sophisticated and deeply comforting.
This recipe provides a clear and detailed guide, ensuring that even home bakers can confidently recreate these gourmet-style bars in their own kitchens. From preparing the tender shortbread base to cooking the luscious caramel to golden perfection, each step is designed for ease and maximum enjoyment. Imagine the satisfaction of serving these beautifully layered Salted Caramel Butter Bars, the inviting aroma of caramel filling your kitchen, and the happy smiles as everyone savors each bite of this decadent confection.
Whether you’re seeking an elegant dessert for a special occasion, a luxurious treat for yourself, or a crowd-pleasing bake for a gathering, Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a recipe that promises to become a cherished favorite. They are versatile, wonderfully delicious, and remarkably rewarding to make – embodying all the qualities of perfect homemade indulgence. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on the delightful journey of making your own Salted Caramel Butter Bars. You’re just moments away from creating a truly magnificent and deliciously satisfying baking experience that will be savored and appreciated by all.
