There’s something irresistible about the combination of sweet and salty flavors that makes desserts like these Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars absolutely addictive. These decadent treats feature three perfect layers that work in harmony: a buttery sugar cookie base, a gooey salted caramel middle, and a smooth chocolate topping finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
What Makes These Bars Special
These triple-layer bars strike the perfect balance between textures and flavors. The cookie base provides a sturdy foundation with just the right amount of sweetness. The middle layer of salted caramel adds a rich, buttery complexity that slowly melts in your mouth. The chocolate ganache topping brings a slight bitterness that complements the sweet caramel, while the sprinkle of sea salt enhances all the flavors and adds unexpected moments of crunch.
Perfect for potlucks, holiday cookie exchanges, or simply as a special treat for yourself, these bars are surprisingly simple to make despite their impressive appearance.
The Recipe
Ingredients
For the Sugar Cookie Base:
- 3/4 cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus more for topping)
For the Chocolate Layer:
- 1 1/4 cups (225g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
- Small handful of mini chocolate chips for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Sugar Cookie Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
Caramel Layer:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it melts and turns amber in color (about 8-10 minutes).
- Once melted, immediately add the butter (be careful, it will bubble vigorously). Stir until the butter is completely melted.
- Remove from heat and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly.
- Stir in the sea salt and allow the caramel to cool slightly for about 5 minutes.
- Pour the warm caramel over the cooled cookie base and spread it evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until the caramel is set.
Chocolate Layer:
- Place chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl.
- Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until it just begins to simmer.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir until smooth and glossy.
- Pour the chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle with additional sea salt and mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely set.
Serving and Storage
For clean slices, use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. They’re delicious cold, but for the ultimate gooey caramel experience, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients are crucial for the cookie base to achieve the right texture.
- Watch the caramel carefully as it can go from perfect to burnt in seconds.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor in the top layer.
- Don’t rush the chilling process between layers for the cleanest cuts.
- Experiment with finishing salts – try smoked sea salt for an interesting twist!
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying your hand at layered desserts for the first time, these Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are sure to impress. The combination of buttery cookie, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate creates a dessert experience that’s both familiar and extraordinary.