I was rummaging through my pantry the other day when I stumbled upon an unopened bag of caramel candies, and it dawned on me: it was the perfect excuse to whip up some Salted Caramel Butter Bars! These indulgent bars are a delightful combination of rich, buttery shortbread and luscious gooey caramel, all topped off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty balance. What I love most about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it a go-to for last-minute gatherings and cozy family nights. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—great on their own or dressed up with a scoop of ice cream. Are you ready to transform those simple ingredients into something truly irresistible?

Why Will You Love These Bars?

Irresistible flavor: The combination of sweet, gooey caramel and buttery shortbread creates a dessert that truly satisfies your sweet tooth.

Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can have these bars baked and cooling in no time.

Versatile delight: Enjoy them as is or elevate them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence!

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or as a delightful treat during the week, these bars are bound to impress everyone.

Customizable: Feel free to adapt the recipe using gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions, ensuring everyone can enjoy the deliciousness!

Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a cozy night in, these Salted Caramel Butter Bars fit right in.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

Unsalted Butter – provides richness and structure; use room temperature butter for the creamiest dough.
Granulated Sugar – adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect texture in the crust.
Powdered Sugar – ensures a smooth layer and contributes to a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Vanilla Extract – enhances the overall flavor profile; you can substitute with almond extract for a different taste.
All-Purpose Flour – forms the base of the crust; for gluten-free options, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

For the Caramel Filling

Caramel Candies – creates the gooey topping; can substitute with store-bought thick caramel sauce for convenience.
Heavy Cream – combines with caramel for a silky texture, making the filling creamy and rich.
Flaky Sea Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; it’s essential for the final sprinkle on top.

Embrace the delightful process of making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars, and watch as they quickly become a favorite in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). While it’s warming, prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will help your Salted Caramel Butter Bars come out easily after baking. Make sure the paper hangs over the sides for simple lifting later.

Step 2: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour. The dough should come together as a thick mass, ready to be pressed into the pan.

Step 3: Bake the Base
Take about half to two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan. Make sure to create an even layer across the surface. Bake in your preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the crust has set.

Step 4: Prepare Caramel Filling
While the crust is baking, melt approximately 14 ounces of caramel candies with ½ cup of heavy cream. You can do this in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in 30-second intervals and stirring between, or over low heat on the stovetop. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, creating a luscious filling.

Step 5: Assemble Bars
Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven, and immediately pour the warm caramel mixture over it, spreading it evenly. To finish, crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer without pressing it down, allowing the texture to stay light and airy. Sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt over the top for that perfect balance of flavor.

Step 6: Final Bake
Return the assembled Salted Caramel Butter Bars to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes. Look for a lightly golden topping; it should be set and just firm to the touch. This final baking step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Cool and Slice
Once baked, let your bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature. For cleaner cuts, chill them in the refrigerator for 1 hour. When ready, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice them into squares and enjoy the delightful combination of rich buttery crust and gooey caramel!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Variations

Let your imagination run wild as you customize these scrumptious bars to suit your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for your gluten-sensitive friends and family. They won’t even know the difference!
Almond Twist: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a delightful nutty flavor that brings a new dimension to your bars. It pairs beautifully with the caramel!
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a luscious drizzle of melted semi-sweet or milk chocolate on top for an extra sweet finish. Just picture that delightful contrast between the chocolate and buttery bars!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the topping for a satisfying crunch that elevates the texture to another level. It adds a delightful surprise in every bite!
Caramel Sauce Option: Use a thick store-bought caramel sauce instead of candies for convenience. Choose a quality caramel for a rich, smooth topping!
Spicy Kick: For those who crave a little heat, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder into the caramel mixture. The unexpected heat will create a beautiful balance with the sweet caramel.
Minty Freshness: Mix in some peppermint extract instead of vanilla for a festive twist! These bars will become a holiday favorite in no time.
Salted Caramel Brownie Base: Instead of a shortbread crust, use a fudgy brownie base for a decadent twist that lovers of rich chocolate desserts won’t resist! Just think of that velvety chocolate paired with gooey caramel – pure heaven!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas, or create your own variations, and don’t forget to try serving these delightful bars with a scoop of ice cream, perhaps alongside a slice of Caramel Brownie Cheesecake for a sweet treat!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Butter Bars

These delectable treats are perfect for pairing with complementary flavors and textures that enhance the experience of each sweet bite.

Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy, chilled vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm, gooey bars, creating a perfect balance of temperature and flavor.
Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing pop of acidity that cuts through the richness of the caramel, brightening every mouthful.
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee enhances the sweet and salty notes of the bars, making each sip a delicious companion to the dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: A warm drizzle of melted dark chocolate elevates the bars to new heights with its intense flavor, creating a sophisticated touch.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle over some toasted pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the soft, gooey center of the bars.
Caramel Sauce: For the ultimate indulgence, drizzle an extra layer of caramel sauce over the top; it intensifies the sweetness and adds a luxurious touch.
Milk: A tall glass of cold milk is a classic pairing that balances sweet flavors, making for a nostalgic treat reminiscent of simpler times.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Room Temperature Butter: Use softened butter to achieve a creamy dough, ensuring a tender and smooth texture in your bars.
Mind the Bake Time: Avoid overbaking; the bars should be slightly golden, not brown. This keeps the crust buttery and the caramel gooey.
Jazz Up the Caramel: Stir the caramel mixture continuously while melting to prevent scorching, which can ruin that silky texture.
Chill for Clean Cuts: Refrigerate the bars for about an hour before slicing to get those neat, tidy squares—the perfect presentation!
Caramel Consistency: If using store-bought caramel, check that it’s thick enough to maintain the texture of the Salted Caramel Butter Bars; overly runny caramel can make them soggy.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the shortbread crust and the caramel filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply bake the crust and let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container at room temperature. For the caramel, prepare it as instructed and allow it to cool before pouring it over the crust; refrigerate until ready to assemble. When you’re ready to serve, crumble the remaining dough on top and bake until golden for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste! This way, you’ll have delicious bars ready to enjoy with minimal effort on the day of your gathering or sweet treat craving.

Storage Tips for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Room Temperature: Store your Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and chewy for those sweet snacking moments.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled or want to extend their shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. This locks in the delightful flavor and texture.
Thawing: When you’re ready to indulge, let the frozen bars come to room temperature or microwave individual pieces for 10–15 seconds to revive their gooey goodness!

Salted Caramel Butter Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use unsalted butter at room temperature. This not only provides richness but also allows the sugars to cream beautifully with the butter, resulting in a soft and delicate dough.

How should I store Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Keep your Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful chewiness. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Butter Bars?
Very! To freeze your bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them sit at room temperature or microwave individual pieces for about 10-15 seconds to bring back their gooey texture.

What should I do if my caramel filling is too runny?
If your caramel filling turns out too runny, it might be due to using a thinner store-bought caramel. To remedy this, melt a small amount of unwrapped caramel candies with some heavy cream on low heat and mix it back into your filling until the consistency thickens. This will help create that delightful gooeyness you want in your bars.

Are these Salted Caramel Butter Bars suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. This way, everyone can enjoy the sweet and salty experience, regardless of their dietary needs!

How long do Salted Caramel Butter Bars last in the fridge?
These bars can last in the refrigerator for up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container. Keeping them chilled enhances their flavor and allows you to enjoy a cold, smooth bite any time you desire!