Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Name: Salted Caramel Butter Bars: Discover a Sweet Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup salted caramel sauce; Sea salt for sprinkling

Posted on November 5, 2025

DESSERT

Introduction to Salted Caramel Butter Bars

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore these Salted Caramel Butter Bars! They’re not just a treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With a buttery base and a rich salted caramel layer, these bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Butter Bars

These Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a dream come true for busy lives! They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of buttery goodness and rich caramel is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to make, so even if you’re not a baking pro, you’ll feel like one. Your family will be begging for seconds!

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Salted Caramel Butter Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:

Unsalted butter: This is the star of the show, providing a rich, creamy base. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Brown sugar: Packed brown sugar brings moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Large eggs: Eggs bind everything together, adding structure and richness to the bars.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor, making each bite more aromatic and delicious.
All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the recipe, giving the bars their structure. You can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bars rise, creating a light texture.
Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient! It adds that gooey, sweet, and salty layer that makes these bars irresistible.
Sea salt: A sprinkle on top adds a finishing touch, enhancing the flavor and presentation.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!

How to Make Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking. While that’s heating up, grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. I like to use butter or cooking spray to ensure the bars come out easily.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. This step is key! It creates a rich base for your bars, making them soft and delicious.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the large eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until everything is well combined. This adds moisture and flavor, making your bars even more irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent, which is essential for that perfect rise.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! This will keep your bars tender and soft, just the way we like them.

Step 6: Layer the Batter

Now, spread half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. This forms the base layer for the salted caramel. Make sure it’s even, so every bite is delicious!

Step 7: Add Salted Caramel Sauce

Drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the batter. Then, spread the remaining batter on top. This creates that deliciously gooey center that makes these bars so special!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. This is where the magic happens!

Step 9: Cool and Sprinkle

Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan. After they’ve cooled, sprinkle with sea salt before cutting into bars. This enhances the flavor and gives them that beautiful finishing touch.

Tips for Success

Make sure your butter is softened for easy mixing; it should be at room temperature.
Don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle on top; it elevates the flavor beautifully!
For a richer taste, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious.

Equipment Needed

9×13 inch baking pan: A standard size for these bars; you can use a glass or metal pan.
Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a smaller one for dry ingredients.
Whisk: Perfect for combining dry ingredients; a fork works in a pinch!
Spatula: Great for spreading the batter evenly in the pan.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that complements the caramel.
Chocolate Swirl: Mix in chocolate chips or swirl melted chocolate into the batter for a decadent twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and flax eggs to create a plant-based version of these delicious bars.
Seasonal Flavors: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch, especially in the fall.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Salted Caramel Butter Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve with a hot cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness.
For a festive touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Present them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh fruit for color.

FAQs about Salted Caramel Butter Bars

As you embark on your baking adventure with these Salted Caramel Butter Bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!

Can I use store-bought salted caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought salted caramel sauce is a great time-saver. Just make sure it’s a quality brand for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover bars?

Store your Salted Caramel Butter Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes! These bars freeze beautifully. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll be good for up to three months!

What can I substitute for eggs?

If you need an egg substitute, try using flax eggs or applesauce. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Definitely! Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Your bars will still be delicious and satisfying!

Final Thoughts

Making these Salted Caramel Butter Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of pulling a warm, gooey treat from the oven is unmatched. Each bite is a delightful dance of buttery goodness and rich caramel, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying solo with a cup of coffee. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, these bars bring a touch of sweetness to any moment. I hope you find as much joy in making them as I do. Happy baking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!