Salted caramel chocolate sugar cookie bars are a delightful treat bursting with flavor. The rich taste of chocolate pairs beautifully with sweet salted caramel, making each bite a creamy, mouthwatering experience. These bars are perfect for family gatherings, school events, or just a cozy afternoon at home. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

These cookie bars are not just delicious, but also super simple to make. They use everyday ingredients you probably already have at home. The prep is quick, and the results are hard to resist. These bars have that tempting blend of sweet and salty, making them a hit with both kids and adults. You won’t need any special skills to make them; just mix, bake, and enjoy!

How to Make This Recipe

Making these cookie bars is a breeze. You start by creating a creamy dough, then layer it with rich caramel and chocolate chips. Finally, you bake it until golden and soft. It’s simple enough for beginners, and the warm aroma that fills your kitchen is just the icing on the cake—err, cookie!

What You Need

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
Flaky sea salt, for topping

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips.
Spread half of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of the salted caramel sauce over the dough.
Spread the remaining dough on top of the caramel layer. Drizzle the rest of the caramel on top and use a knife to swirl it into the dough.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let cool before cutting into bars. Serve and enjoy the sweet and salty goodness!

How to Serve This Recipe

These cookie bars are delightful on their own but can be even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. They also make a wonderful dessert for gatherings. Serve them at birthday parties or family movie nights for a sweet treat. For a cozy touch, enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa.

How to Store This Recipe

To keep these bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Recipe Tips

Make sure the butter is well-softened for a creamy texture.
Don’t overmix the dough; just combine until no dry flour is visible.
Swirling the caramel gently enhances the flavor in every bite.
Sprinkle extra sea salt after baking if you prefer a stronger salty kick.
Feel free to use mini chocolate chips for a fun, little surprise in every bite.

Variations & Swaps

Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different flavor.
Use almond flour for a gluten-free version, just ensure the ratios are adjusted.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
Make it holiday-friendly by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg.
Replace half of the butter with applesauce for a lighter version.

FAQs

Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make them a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They taste great even after a day or two.

Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Just ensure they are properly wrapped. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I reheat leftover bars?
For a warm treat, just pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This will make them wonderfully gooey again!

Can I substitute the salted caramel sauce?
Yes, you can use regular caramel sauce if you prefer. Just sprinkle some sea salt on top after baking to get that salty taste.

What are some mistakes to avoid when making these bars?
Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough bars. Also, make sure your oven is preheated; this ensures even baking. Lastly, allow them to cool before cutting for the best texture.