Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars combine the irresistible flavors of soft chocolate chip cookies and rich, buttery caramel with a touch of sea salt. These thick, chewy dessert bars are layered to perfection — golden cookie dough on the top and bottom, with a luscious caramel filling in the center.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the ultimate indulgence, offering contrasting textures and a balance of sweetness and saltiness that elevates the classic cookie bar. They’re ideal for gatherings, bake sales, or when you want to impress with minimal effort.

• Layers of soft cookie dough and gooey caramel
• Sweet and salty flavor combination
• Easy to slice and serve
• Great for parties or gifting
• Freezer-friendly

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Soft caramels (or caramel bits)
• Heavy cream
• Flaky sea salt (for topping)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease lightly.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs and vanilla extract; beat until combined.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients, then fold in chocolate chips.
6. In a saucepan over low heat, melt caramels with heavy cream, stirring until smooth.
7. Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
8. Pour the melted caramel over the bottom layer and spread evenly.
9. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining dough over the caramel and gently spread to cover as much as possible.
10. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
11. Cool completely, then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and slice into bars.

Servings and timing

Servings: 24 bars
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Caramel Bars: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the caramel layer.
• Dark Chocolate Version: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Espresso Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the cookie dough for depth.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
• Salted Peanut Butter Caramel Bars: Swirl in a bit of peanut butter into the caramel before layering.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap each bar in parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. These bars do not need reheating, but you may warm them briefly for a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel?

Yes, homemade caramel sauce works well. Just ensure it’s thick enough to set between layers.

What type of chocolate chips should I use?

Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips are ideal, but milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter result.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, the dough can be used immediately for this layered bar recipe.

Can I add sea salt before baking?

It’s best to sprinkle flaky sea salt after baking and cooling for texture and appearance.

How do I cut the bars cleanly?

Let the bars cool completely, then use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices.

Can I make these in an 8×8 pan?

Yes, halve the recipe and bake for slightly less time (20–25 minutes).

What can I use instead of caramels?

Caramel baking bits or a thick store-bought caramel sauce are great alternatives.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, double the ingredients and bake in a larger sheet pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Why is my top layer uneven?

It’s normal if some caramel peeks through — it adds to the rustic look and gooey texture.

Can I serve these warm?

Yes, they’re delicious warm, especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars deliver the perfect marriage of rich caramel, melty chocolate, and buttery cookie dough. With their sweet-salty balance and gooey texture, these bars are always a hit at events or simply as a well-deserved treat. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite.

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