Discover how to make irresistible salted caramel butter bars with a rich buttery crust, smooth homemade caramel filling, and a hint of sea salt. This easy dessert recipe is perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you crave a sweet and salty treat.

Irresistible Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Irresistible Salted Caramel Butter Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert made with a buttery shortbread-style crust layered with smooth caramel and topped with a crumbly golden topping. The balance of sweet caramel and a touch of sea salt creates a perfect sweet-and-salty combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.

These dessert bars are soft, chewy, and full of deep caramel flavor. They are perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, potlucks, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Best of all, they are surprisingly easy to make with simple ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Butter Crust and Topping

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Salted Caramel Filling

14 ounces soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Kitchen Tools Needed

9×13 inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer or whisk
Rubber spatula
Saucepan
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Butter Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes using an electric mixer.

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Press the Bottom Layer

Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust. Use a spatula or your hands to smooth it out.

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until it begins to lightly turn golden.

Step 4: Prepare the Caramel Filling

While the crust is baking, place the caramel candies and heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the caramels melt completely and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.

Step 5: Add the Caramel Layer

Pour the warm caramel mixture evenly over the partially baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it gently if needed.

Step 6: Add the Crumble Topping

Take the remaining dough and crumble small pieces over the caramel layer. The topping does not need to fully cover the caramel; small gaps allow the caramel to show through.

Step 7: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top becomes lightly golden brown.

Step 8: Cool Completely

Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. This step is important because the caramel needs time to set before cutting.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top for extra flavor if desired.

Baking Tips

Use high-quality caramel candies for the best flavor.
Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing to prevent the caramel from being too soft.
Refrigerating the bars for 30 minutes can help create cleaner slices.
A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweet caramel flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store the salted caramel butter bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be refrigerated for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Salted caramel butter bars are perfect for:

Holiday dessert tables
Bake sales and potlucks
Coffee or tea time treats
After-dinner desserts
Party dessert platters

Irresistible salted caramel butter bars