Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars

Chewy, gooey, and loaded with chocolate and caramel, these Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone with a sweet tooth. The buttery cookie dough base, luscious caramel filling, and golden top layer combine to make a treat that’s as impressive as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of chocolate and caramel is a timeless favorite that’s sure to satisfy.

These bars are easy to make with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

They’re perfect for any occasion, from potlucks to holiday gatherings.

You can prepare them in advance, making them a stress-free dessert option.

The recipe is highly versatile, allowing for creative variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookie dough:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 large eggs

2 cups chocolate chips

For the caramel filling:

1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped

2 tablespoons heavy cream

Directions

Prepare the cookie dough:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until fully combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Assemble the bars:

Press half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool slightly.

While the base cools, melt the caramel candies and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.

Layer and bake:

Pour the melted caramel evenly over the baked cookie base.

Drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer, spreading gently to cover as much as possible.

Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and serve:

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 16 bars

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal per bar

Variations

Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookie dough for added crunch.

Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the caramel layer for a salted caramel twist.

Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor profile.

Peanut Butter: Drizzle melted peanut butter over the caramel layer before adding the top cookie layer.

Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing: Freeze individual bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating: Warm individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive the gooey texture.

Related Recipes:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Candies
• Christmas Cookie Bars
• Caramel Cheesecake Bars

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel instead of caramel candies?

Yes, homemade caramel works beautifully. Just ensure it’s a thick, spreadable consistency for layering.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These bars can be baked a day in advance and stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Can I substitute margarine for butter?

While you can use margarine, I recommend sticking to butter for the best flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the knife when cutting?

Chill the bars in the refrigerator first and use a sharp knife lightly coated with cooking spray.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake the bars in two 9×13-inch pans, or use a larger baking dish if available.

Conclusion

These Chocolate Chip Caramel Bars are a decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their chewy cookie base, gooey caramel center, and rich chocolate flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you follow the recipe as-is or try one of the variations, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

---

📖 Recipe:

Print