Easy Caramel Cookie Bars

Alright, so here’s the deal. You’ve somehow stumbled upon my chaotic kitchen corner where we’re talking about these scrumptious Easy Caramel Cookie Bars. Imagine biting into a warm, soft cookie that’s hugged by gooey caramel. Oh yes, it’s a thing, and trust me, your taste buds are gonna thank you! This little bar of joy is basically what happens when cookies and caramel decide to throw a party in your mouth. I’m not here to boss you around but seriously, you *need* to try this.

You know how some things just sneak their way into family traditions? Yeah, that’s what these bars did in my house. They became non-negotiable after the first time my husband tried them. He dubbed them “Monday motivation” — because let’s face it, who wouldn’t want to tackle Mondays knowing there’s a treat waiting at home? My kids practically sniff them out before they even hit the oven, and suddenly everyone’s being a gem and volunteering to do chores. Coincidence? I think not.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Caramel Cookie Bars

1. They’re like getting a warm caramel hug from the inside.
2. You don’t need a culinary degree to nail this — lazy Sunday vibes all the way!
3. Perfect for those “Oh no, forgot the bake sale!” moments.
4. The caramel practically coats your soul in happiness.
5. Totally free therapy session after a long day… in food form!

How to Make It

Alright, imagine I’m right there with you, hands full of flour and a little caramel smudge on my cheek. First off, grab your baking pan and give it a little spritz of PAM or throw some parchment paper down (because who has time for scrubbing later?). Now, let’s melt that butter — no need to set off the smoke alarm, just low and slow on this one. Once it’s all buttery liquid gold, toss in the sugar. Stir like you’re casting a magic spell and add those eggs one at a time because, you know, science.

Vanilla! Don’t forget the vanilla! It’s like liquid gold that doesn’t cost your entire paycheck. Sift in the flour and baking soda and mix until it’s all together. Just don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with concrete bars. Spread half the mix in your pan and press it down like you really mean it. Now, drizzle (or drown — I won’t judge) the whole thing in delicious caramel. The rest of the dough goes on top like a cozy cookie blanket. Bake until golden-ish — mostly go by smell here; your nose knows best.

Ingredient Notes

– Butter: This stuff’s basically the glue holding everything together. Don’t skip it unless you’re brave!
– Sugar: Makes it sweet, duh! Also, brown sugar gives a caramel-like note. You don’t want to miss this.
– Vanilla: I adore vanilla so much I would wear it if I could. Don’t skimp — or do, if you’re feeling adventurous.

Recipe Steps: You must fill the “Recipe Steps” section with a clear, step-by-step version of the instructions. Do not leave it empty. Summarize the main actions from the ‘How to Make It’ section in concise steps. Each step should start with a verb and follow a numbered format.

1. Preheat the oven and prep your baking pan.
2. Melt butter, then mix with sugar.
3. Add eggs one by one, and stir in vanilla.
4. Sift in flour and baking soda, mix until combined.
5. Press half the mixture into the pan, drizzle with caramel.
6. Cover with remaining dough and bake until golden.

What to Serve It With

Tips & Mistakes

– Using slightly salted butter can level up the flavor by a notch.
– If you overbake, no worries! Dunk those babies in some milk or coffee. Trust.

Storage Tips

So you’ve got leftovers. Toss them in an airtight container and they’ll last like forever—okay, maybe a week, but that’s unheard of around here. They also make a splendid breakfast treat — cold or warmed up — the caramel becomes this toffee-like magic overnight. No regrets.

Variations and Substitutions

Honest confession, I’ve swapped maple syrup when caramel was MIA, and guess what? Still delish. Don’t have brown sugar? White sugar with a molasses hug. Need a nutty kick? Go wild with chopped walnuts or almonds sprinkled in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Easy Caramel Cookie Bars

Delicious layered caramel cookie bars with a buttery shortbread base, chewy caramel center, and a sprinkle of sea salt on top.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ▢ 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• ▢ 0.75 cup granulated sugar
• ▢ 1 package soft caramel candies unwrap individually
• ▢ 0.25 cup heavy cream
• ▢ 0.5 tsp sea salt for sprinkling on top

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add the flour to the butter mixture and stir until combined; press half of the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan.
• Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and set.
• While crust is baking, melt the caramels with heavy cream over low heat until smooth.
• Pour the caramel mixture over the baked crust. Crumble the remaining dough on top, then sprinkle with sea salt.
• Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

For best results, store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.