Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate chip cookies with gooey caramel sauce, resulting in a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. These bars boast a buttery cookie base studded with semi-sweet chocolate morsels, topped with a layer of luscious caramel sauce, and finished with more cookie dough for added indulgence. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why Make Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

Indulgent and irresistible, Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that appeal to the senses. With buttery cookie layers, gooey caramel filling, and bursts of chocolate in every bite, these bars are a true delight for dessert lovers. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself and your loved ones, these bars are guaranteed to bring joy and satisfaction with each bite.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, cream together room temperature butter, brown sugar, and vanilla until light and fluffy using a hand-held mixer.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt, mixing on low speed until combined.
5. Fold in semi-sweet chocolate morsels.
6. Press half of the cookie dough evenly into a prepared 8×12 or 9×13 baking dish, reserving the remaining dough.

Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine evaporated milk and caramel bits.
2. Stir frequently for about 8 minutes, or until the caramels are melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.

Assembly

1. Once the cookie base has baked for 10 minutes, remove it from the oven and place it on a heat-safe surface.
2. Pour the prepared caramel sauce evenly over the partially baked cookie layer.
3. Carefully place flattened dollops of the remaining cookie dough over the hot caramel, ensuring to cover the surface evenly.
4. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and the cookie topping is golden brown.
5. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature before cutting and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Enjoy them as a standalone treat or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert experience. These bars are perfect for sharing at parties, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Storage Info

Store leftover Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Warm individual servings in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Techniques and Tips

• When pressing the cookie dough into the baking dish, try to create an even layer to ensure uniform baking.
• Be cautious when pouring the hot caramel sauce over the partially baked cookie layer to avoid burns.
• Use a sharp knife to cut the bars into neat squares or rectangles for serving.

Variation

For added flavor and texture, consider sprinkling chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the caramel layer before adding the remaining cookie dough. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate chips or add-ins, such as toffee bits or shredded coconut, to customize the bars to your liking.

FAQs about Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

1. Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought caramel bits? Yes, you can substitute homemade caramel sauce for the store-bought caramel bits. Simply prepare your favorite caramel sauce recipe and use it in place of the store-bought caramel.
2. Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars for later? Yes, these bars freeze well. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
3. Can I omit the chocolate chips from the cookie dough? While chocolate chips add a delicious burst of flavor to the bars, you can omit them if desired or substitute them with your favorite mix-ins, such as raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts.

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