Name: Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 pinch salt (to taste); 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup salted caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought); 1 pinch sea salt

The warm aroma of salted caramel wafts through my kitchen, tempting me in ways I can’t resist. Just the thought of biting into a Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bar makes my taste buds dance with anticipation. These bars are not only ridiculously easy to prepare but also bring the perfect balance of sweet and salty goodness that will leave everyone begging for the recipe. Whether you’re making them for a festive gathering or a cozy movie night at home, they’re bound to be a hit. Plus, they are the ultimate comfort dessert, perfect for indulging without a fuss. Are you ready to whip up this indulgent treat that will have your friends and family raving? Let’s dive into this heavenly recipe!

Why are these bars irresistible?

Decadent Sweetness: The blend of rich butter and salted caramel creates a heavenly taste that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Gooey Perfection: The creamy center offers a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience, reminiscent of your favorite dessert shop treats.

Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch in no time!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, these bars are sure to impress guests and keep everyone coming back for more.

Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or experiment with flavored extracts like almond or coconut for a twist!

Endless Pairings: Serve warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or fresh fruit for that extra touch of indulgence. You’ll find that once you make these Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars your go-to dessert, you won’t want to stop baking them!

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars Ingredients

For the Crust
• Unsalted Butter – The primary fat that gives these bars their rich flavor. You can use salted butter but reduce additional salt in the recipe.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure to the crust; feel free to swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• Eggs – Essential for binding ingredients and achieving that perfect texture; no substitutes recommended.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; almond extract can be used for a different twist.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the base structure for your bars; consider using a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
• Baking Powder – This leavening agent ensures your bars have a fluffy texture.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the crust.

For the Filling
• Unsalted Butter – Adds creaminess and depth; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the filling while contributing to that creamy texture.
• Eggs – Key to achieving a smooth, gooey filling; don’t skip these!

For the Topping
• Salted Caramel Sauce – Provides the signature flavor and a delightful sticky finish; can be homemade or store-bought.
• Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top brings the perfect balance of salty to the sweet.

These Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are a delightful indulgence that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars from sticking, ensuring they come out easily after baking. Place the baking dish aside as you prepare the crust, creating a warm atmosphere for your delicious treat.

Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and light, around 3-5 minutes. Add in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated. Gradually mix in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until a soft dough forms. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a sturdy base.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, combine 8 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter with 2 cups of powdered sugar, beating until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add in 2 eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a cohesive filling. Gently fold in 1 cup of flour until the mixture is smooth. This filling is what makes the bars gooey and indulgent!

Step 4: Combine Layers
Pour the creamy filling over the pressed dough in your baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, drizzle a generous amount of salted caramel sauce on top, creating a beautiful, swirled design as it mixes into the filling. This combination is the heart of the Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars, delivering that coveted sweet and salty balance.

Step 5: Bake
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, while the center will still appear slightly jiggly. This ensures that you achieve that gooey texture. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking, as oven temperatures can vary slightly.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling period will help them firm up, and you’ll want to ensure they are completely cooled before slicing for clean edges. Once cooled, sprinkle the top with a pinch of sea salt for that extra burst of flavor!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Room Temperature: Keep bars in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. Enjoy them slightly warm for an extra touch of indulgence!
Fridge: Stored in the refrigerator, these Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars can last for up to 1 week. Make sure they’re covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Perfect for a sweet treat whenever the craving strikes!
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize these bars to make them uniquely yours with delightful twists and substitutions!

Nutty Twist: Add 1 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a delightful crunch.
Chocolate Delight: Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling for a rich, decadent surprise in every bite.
Almond Extract: Replace vanilla with almond extract for a fragrant, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.
Coconut Crunch: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical flair and chewy texture that balances the gooeyness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel sauce for a surprising hint of heat that elevates the sweet-salty combo.
Fresh Fruit: Top with sliced strawberries or bananas before serving for a refreshing contrast and added flavor.
Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Homemade Caramel: If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own salted caramel sauce for a fresher, more intense flavor. Check out my tips for a perfect homemade caramel that pairs great with these Rhubarb Custard Bars too!

Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the journey of baking these heavenly treats!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars?

Savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors as you transform your dessert into a memorable feast.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds a rich, cold contrast to the warm, gooey bars, enhancing their sweet-salty magic.
Fresh Berries Medley: The tartness of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries cuts through the richness, providing a burst of fresh flavor to balance the indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over your bars elevates the dessert with an extra layer of decadence, perfect for chocolate lovers.
Caramelized Bananas: Sautéed bananas topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon bring a warm, fruity touch that complements the caramel flavor beautifully.
Espresso or Coffee: A warm cup of rich espresso greatly enhances the sweetness of the bars, creating a delightful after-dinner treat.
Whipped Cream: Luxuriously fluffy whipped cream can be served on the side, adding a delightful lightness that contrasts with the bars’ gooey density.
Nutty Topping: Crushed toasted pecans or walnuts add a satisfying crunch, enriching the overall experience with layered textures and flavors.

These delightful accompaniments will ensure your Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are the star of any dessert table!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature. This ensures even mixing and a creamy texture in your crust and filling.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the filling gently to maintain its light, gooey texture. Overmixing can lead to a denser consistency.
Sugar Swaps: Consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor and extra moisture in both the crust and filling.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps prevent the gooey filling from falling apart.
Caramel Quality: Use high-quality salted caramel sauce for the best flavor. A homemade sauce can take your Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars to the next level.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first three steps of the recipe, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain quality (this prevents any browning and keeps everything fresh). When you’re ready to enjoy, just pour the creamy filling over the crust, drizzle with salted caramel, and bake. For even more convenience, baked bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Enjoy the luxury of prepping ahead, and indulge in these delightful bars with minimal effort!

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing your ingredients, ensure the butter is softened but not melted, as it helps create a creamy texture in both the crust and filling. Fresh eggs should be at room temperature for optimal mixing. For the flour, ensure you use all-purpose unless you are opting for a gluten-free blend. If you choose to use a salted caramel sauce, look for one with high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

How should I store my Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars?
Very! These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, transfer them to the fridge where they will last for up to a week. Just ensure they’re well-covered to maintain moisture and flavor.

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, I recommend wrapping individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then placing them in an airtight container. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a bar, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.

What if my filling turns out too dense?
Sometimes, this can happen if the filling is overmixed or if the ingredients are not at the right temperature. When preparing the filling, beat the butter and sugar until just creamy, and then add the eggs one at a time, mixing until combined. When you incorporate the flour, fold it gently to avoid overmixing. This will keep your filling light and gooey.

Are there any dietary considerations for serving these bars?
Definitely! If you’re serving friends or family with dietary restrictions, it’s important to note that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. You can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. If anyone is lactose intolerant, consider using dairy-free butter and a vegan caramel sauce. Always check ingredients to avoid allergens, especially with store-bought sauces.