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Easy Caramel Cookie Bars Recipe

Easy Caramel Cookie Bars Recipe
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Delight in these Easy Caramel Cookie Bars that combine a buttery, crunchy cookie base with a luscious, gooey caramel layer. This quick and simple recipe uses pantry staples to create a perfectly balanced dessert featuring chewy centers and crispy edges, ideal for any occasion or craving.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Caramel Layer

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk (or sweetened condensed coconut milk for vegan)

Optional Mix-ins and Toppings

  • Chocolate chips (dark or milk)
  • Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds)
  • Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cookie Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large bowl, combine melted unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth. Add vanilla extract, then gradually mix in all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until a thick, crumbly dough forms. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan to create the base layer.
  2. Create the Caramel Layer: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cookie base. If using any mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the caramel layer now to distribute throughout the bars.
  3. Bake and Cool: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the caramel layer bubbles lightly. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature so the caramel sets properly.
  4. Cut and Enjoy: Once cooled, carefully lift the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges. Serve immediately or store for later enjoyment.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for better mixing with sugars and consistent dough texture.
  • Do not skip lining the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
  • Press the dough firmly to ensure an even base that holds the caramel layer well.
  • Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to prevent caramel from sticking and ensure neat slices.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top to enhance the caramel flavor and balance the sweetness.

Nutrition

Keywords: caramel cookie bars, easy dessert, caramel bars, chewy cookie bars, quick baking, gooey caramel dessert, gluten-free dessert option

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/easy-caramel-cookie-bars-recipe/