Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe: The Ultimate Sweet Treat

Introduction:
If you’re looking for a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and sugar cookies, then look no further! Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect indulgence. These bars offer a soft, chewy sugar cookie base, topped with a smooth layer of salted caramel and finished off with a drizzle of rich chocolate. They’re sure to be a hit at any party or family gathering!

What Are Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars?

Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are a delicious combination of three beloved treats: sugar cookies, caramel, and chocolate. These bars start with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth sugar cookie base, which is then layered with gooey salted caramel and topped with a drizzle of smooth chocolate. The contrast between the sweetness of the caramel and the salty finish is what makes these bars irresistible.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars

Ingredients:

For the cookie bars:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling the dough)

For the salted caramel:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (or to taste)

For the chocolate drizzle:

• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare the Sugar Cookie Base:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. The dough will be thick.
3. Form the Cookie Bars:
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll them in granulated sugar. Place the dough balls into the prepared baking dish and gently flatten them with your fingers to form an even layer.
4. Bake the Cookie Bars:
   Bake the cookie bars for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
5. Make the Salted Caramel:
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture begins to bubble. Add the heavy cream and continue to stir until the caramel becomes smooth and thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled cookie bars.
6. Top with Chocolate Drizzle:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semisweet chocolate chips and butter together in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the mixture is smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel layer using a spoon or a piping bag for more control.
7. Chill and Serve:
   Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then place them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the caramel and chocolate layers. Slice into squares and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars

• Let the caramel cool slightly: This helps prevent it from melting the cookie base when you pour it over.
• Adjust the salt level: If you love a stronger salty-sweet contrast, add more sea salt to the caramel or sprinkle a little on top of the bars.
• Use high-quality chocolate: The better the chocolate, the better the drizzle! Consider using high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate.
• Storage: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerated for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Chocolate Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the sweet and salty flavor combination. With their chewy sugar cookie base, gooey caramel filling, and rich chocolate drizzle, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!