Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines the perfect balance of rich chocolate, luscious caramel, and a hint of sea salt to elevate every bite, these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are exactly what your sweet tooth has been craving. Imagine sinking into a warm, soft cookie base studded with melty chocolate chips and swirled with indulgent salted caramel, all topped with a delicate sprinkle of flaked sea salt to brighten the flavors. These bars are a decadent twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, bursting with gooey texture and irresistible layers that will quickly make them a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build that perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy butter and both brown and white sugar that bring sweetness and moisture, to the all-purpose flour that creates the tender base, every component plays a special role.

• 1 cup salted butter (2 sticks), room temperature: Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookie bars.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
• ½ cup granulated white sugar: Balances sweetness and contributes to the cookie’s chewiness.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while ensuring a soft texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Sharpens sweetness and balances the richness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly for a tender bite.
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour: Builds structure without making the bars cakey.
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The melty pockets of chocolate that are a must-have in every bite.
• One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk: Creates the creamy, gooey caramel layer effortlessly.
• 10 ounces soft caramels (about 40 unwrapped): The heart of gooey salted caramel flavor throughout the bars.
• 1 teaspoon flaked sea salt: Finishing touch that adds a delicate crunch and flavor contrast.

How to Make Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil—it’ll make lifting out the bars a breeze later—and spray it generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. These small steps save you so much hassle when serving and storing!

Step 2: Whip Up the Cookie Dough

Grab a large bowl and beat the butter with both sugars on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and light, about 2 minutes. This aeration is the key to tender bars. Add the eggs, vanilla, salt, and baking soda next, mixing until smooth. Finally, switch to low speed to gently incorporate the flour so your dough stays soft and puckered with flavor. Fold in those chocolate chips by hand so they’re evenly spread but not crushed.

Step 3: Layer Your Gooey Goodness

Press three-quarters of your cookie dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Don’t rush this step; a smooth, compact base will hold the layers together perfectly. While that’s set, melt the sweetened condensed milk and caramels in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until you have a silky, luscious caramel mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Bars

Pour three-quarters of your caramel onto the pressed dough. Then, drop the remaining cookie dough over the caramel in small teaspoons-sized dollops—this gives the bars their characteristic gooey pockets. Save any extra caramel for an indulgent drizzle over ice cream later; you won’t want to waste it!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake your creation for 25 to 30 minutes. The edges should be set and golden, but the center will still have that soft jiggle that promises gooeyness. Once out of the oven, sprinkle the flaked sea salt across the top to add that irresistible finishing twist. Let the bars cool fully in the pan before slicing to ensure clean cuts and perfect texture.

How to Serve Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Garnishes

A little goes a long way here. A light dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of flaked sea salt right before serving amps up the beauty and flavor. For a truly decadent touch, drizzle some warm caramel sauce or melted chocolate over each bar just before plating.

Side Dishes

These bars are sensational on their own but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes the experience to a new level. A cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk also complements the sweet and salty layers wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or parties, cut these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars into bite-sized squares and serve them on a pretty tray with little toothpicks—easy for guests to grab and enjoy. Alternatively, layer chunks in a trifle glass with whipped cream and chopped nuts for an impressive dessert parfait.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They last beautifully for up to three days, maintaining that soft, gooey texture that makes them so special. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then seal them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars keep well for about two months. Thaw them overnight on the counter for a soft, satisfying treat next time.

Reheating

If you like your bars warm and melty, simply reheat individual pieces in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives that irresistible gooey texture and enhances the caramel and chocolate flavors.

FAQs

Can I use regular caramel candies instead of soft ones?

Soft caramels are recommended because they melt smoothly into the condensed milk to create that perfect gooey layer. Hard caramels might not melt down as evenly, which could affect texture.

Is it necessary to use salted butter if the recipe also calls for salt?

Using salted butter adds an extra layer of savory contrast to balance the sweetness, but if you only have unsalted butter, just add a pinch more kosher salt to compensate.

Can I substitute chocolate chips with chunks or other types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Chopped chocolate chunks, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips can work well. Just keep in mind how their sweetness and melting properties might slightly change the outcome.

How thick should I press the dough in the pan?

About three-quarters of the dough should form an even layer roughly half an inch thick at the bottom of the pan. This thickness helps balance the gooey caramel topping without making the bars too dense.

Why is flaked sea salt important on top?

Flaked sea salt adds not only a delicate crunch but also enhances the caramel’s sweetness by introducing a savory contrast that brightens the flavors and makes the Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars truly unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Once you try these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, you’ll understand why they’re an absolute showstopper. They’re simple to make but packed with layered flavors and textures that instantly lift your dessert game. Trust me, whether it’s for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, these bars will have everyone coming back for more. So grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

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