Caramel Chocolate Chip Bars

Indulge in the rich, irresistible flavors of homemade Decadent Caramel Chocolate Chip Bars. Perfect for any occasion, these bars combine chewy chocolate chip cookie goodness with luscious, gooey caramel. Our step-by-step recipe makes it easy to create a dessert that will impress your loved ones. Experience the satisfaction of baking from scratch and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as you whip up this sweet treat. Your next gathering or cozy night in won't be complete without them!

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Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until creamy and well-combined (about 2-3 minutes).

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Assemble in Baking Pan: Spread half of the cookie dough evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking pan, pressing it down with a spatula. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the layer of dough.

Add Second Layer: Spoon the remaining dough over the caramel layer, spreading it gently without mixing it with the caramel. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce on top.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set. The bars may appear slightly underbaked in the middle, which is perfect for keeping them chewy.

Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top. Once cooled, lift them out using the edges of the parchment paper (if used) and cut into squares or bars.

Serve: Enjoy your decadent caramel chocolate chip bars warm, or allow them to cool completely for a firmer texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 24 bars