Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: The Ultimate Indulgence

If you’re a fan of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and buttery cookies, then these Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are going to blow your mind. Combining the best elements of a cookie bar with a luscious homemade salted caramel, these bars offer a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and chocolatey goodness in every bite. The chewy oatmeal chocolate chip cookie base adds a hearty texture, while the salted caramel layer provides a smooth, buttery contrast that keeps you coming back for more. Finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, these bars are a gourmet treat that’s surprisingly simple to make at home.

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves to bake and wants to impress friends or family with a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. The homemade salted caramel is incredibly rich and satisfying, elevating the classic cookie bar to a new level. Whether you want to make a batch for a party, a holiday, or just because you deserve something special, these cookie bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, the combination of nuts, chocolate chips, and oats creates a delightful texture and flavor profile that makes these bars truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Decadent Homemade Salted Caramel – Rich, buttery, and perfectly salted caramel made from scratch.
2. Chewy Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Base – Adds texture and wholesome flavor.
3. Perfect Balance of Sweet and Salty – The flaky sea salt enhances the flavors wonderfully.
4. Loaded with Chocolate and Nuts – A mix of semisweet and dark chocolate chips plus crunchy nuts for variety.
5. Impressive Yet Easy to Make – A show-stopping dessert that’s straightforward and fun to bake.

Ingredients

• Granulated sugar
• Water
• Unsalted butter
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Kosher salt
• All-purpose flour
• Quick oats
• Baking powder
• Dark brown sugar
• Eggs
• Semisweet chocolate chips
• Dark chocolate chips
• Walnuts or pecans (finely chopped)
• Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Omit the walnuts or pecans and add extra chocolate chips or toasted coconut instead.
• Peanut Butter Caramel Bars: Swirl peanut butter into the caramel layer before baking.
• Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, a flax egg substitute, and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• White Chocolate and Macadamia: Swap dark and semisweet chips for white chocolate and use macadamia nuts.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel for a subtle heat.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water. Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves and caramelizes into a deep amber color. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring constantly. Stir in vanilla extract and a hefty pinch of kosher salt. Finally, whisk in the flour to thicken slightly. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

In a bowl, mix oats, flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, then slowly mix in dry ingredients. Fold in semisweet and dark chocolate chips, plus chopped nuts.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Press half the cookie dough into a greased or parchment-lined baking pan. Spread the cooled salted caramel evenly over the dough. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough on top of the caramel and gently spread it out to cover.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and set. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to serve.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature butter for the cookie dough for easier mixing.
• Don’t rush the caramel step; wait until it reaches a rich amber color for the best flavor.
• Spread the caramel carefully to avoid mixing it into the cookie dough layers.
• Use a sharp knife to cut the bars cleanly once cooled.
• Store bars in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh.

How to Serve

Serve these bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They’re perfect as a dessert after dinner, a sweet snack with coffee, or a crowd-pleasing treat at parties. Pair them with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for an extra indulgent experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Warm bars briefly in the microwave (about 15 seconds) to soften the caramel and chocolate before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
   Yes, but reduce added kosher salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
2. What if my caramel crystallizes?
   If sugar crystallizes, start over with a clean pan and avoid stirring once the sugar dissolves.
3. Can I substitute quick oats with rolled oats?
   Yes, rolled oats work fine but may create a chewier texture.
4. Is it okay to use only one type of chocolate chip?
   Absolutely, use your favorite kind or mix as you like.
5. Can I make the cookie dough ahead of time?
   Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before assembling.
6. What pan size is best for these bars?
   A 9×9-inch square baking pan works perfectly.
7. How do I know when the bars are done baking?
   The edges should be golden and set; the center might still look slightly soft but will firm as it cools.
8. Can I leave out the nuts?
   Yes, just add extra chocolate chips or other mix-ins if desired.
9. How salty are these bars?
   The flaky sea salt adds a perfect balance to the sweetness without overpowering.
10. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, use a larger pan and adjust baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are an irresistible treat combining luscious homemade caramel, chewy oatmeal cookie base, and rich chocolate chips with crunchy nuts. With a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, these bars are ideal for any occasion, from casual snacking to special celebrations. Their homemade salted caramel layer elevates this dessert beyond the ordinary, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy to prepare and endlessly satisfying, these cookie bars will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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