Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Delight in the indulgence of these Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. Rich in flavor and decadently textured, they marry the warm, buttery essence of cookies with the silky allure of salted caramel. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of sweet and salty, making this dessert a sophisticated centerpiece for any gathering.

Why Make This Recipe

Effortless Yet Elegant: A straightforward preparation method yields restaurant-quality results.
Minimal Ingredients: Savor the simplicity of quality ingredients that shine without fuss.
Impressive Flavor: The dual layers of chewy cookie and luscious caramel elevate this treat, creating a profound taste experience.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Base:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1 teaspoon fleur de sel, or to taste

For Topping:

Additional fleur de sel, for sprinkling

How to Make Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Make the Cookie Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
Bake the Cookie Base: Pour half of the dough into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 15 minutes, or until just golden but not fully set.
Prepare the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns into a rich amber liquid. Add the cubed butter, whisking until melted. Carefully add the heavy cream, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and sprinkle in fleur de sel, adjusting to taste.
Layer and Finish Baking: Pour the warm salted caramel over the partially baked cookie layer. Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel, leaving some exposed for a rustic look. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the top is set and lightly browned.
Cool and Cut: Allow the dessert to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes before lifting it out using the parchment overhang. Cut into bars with a sharp knife.

How to Serve Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Present these cookie bars on a classic white platter, garnished with a delicate sprinkle of fleur de sel. For an extra touch, pair with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce to complement the sweet and salty notes.

How to Store Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

To maintain optimal texture and flavor, store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If refrigerating, layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a melty texture reminiscent of fresh-baked bliss.

Tips to Make Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Monitor Caramel Carefully: Sugar can caramelize quickly. Keep a vigilant eye to avoid burning.
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookie bars, chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Customize the Chocolate: Experiment with dark or milk chocolate chips to suit your taste preferences.
Add Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor.
Pair with Espresso: Serve with a shot of espresso for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Variation

Nutty Delight: Substitute chocolate chips with crushed hazelnuts or almonds for added texture.
Flavored Caramel: Infuse the caramel sauce with a hint of vanilla or bourbon for a mature flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I make the cookie bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening?

Make sure to store the bars in a cool place and avoid refrigeration, as this may cause the caramel to set too firmly.

Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Absolutely! Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

The Ultimate Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars exemplify the art of refined home baking, effortlessly merging classic flavors with modern elegance. Their inviting aroma and delectable texture make them a true delight for any occasion. Explore the possibilities of this recipe by adding your own personal touches. What variations or enhancements might you consider to make this dish your own?