Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – Gooey Layered Dessert Recipe

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves gooey caramel, pools of melted chocolate, and sweet-salty flavor in every bite. These bars are inspired by the classic chocolate chip cookie but elevated with a thick ribbon of caramel sauce layered between dough, then topped with a generous sprinkle of sea salt flakes that sets off the sweetness and richness perfectly. They’re chewy, buttery, and positively decadent—made for bake sales, celebrations, or any time you want a showstopper treat at home.

Why You’ll Love These

• One Bowl Wonder: The dough comes together easily—no mixer required, just stir and layer.
• Decadent Layers: A caramel middle bursts out in every bite, balanced by gooey chocolate and soft cookie edges.
• Sweet + Salty Perfection: Sea salt flakes scattered over the top bring bold flavor and sophistication to a classic.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and freeze for future dessert emergencies.
• Easy to Share: Baked in a pan, they slice clean and travel well—great for gatherings!

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Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
• 1 cup caramel sauce
• Sea salt flakes for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment, leaving an overhang to lift bars later.
2. In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
3. Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined, then fold in chocolate chips.
4. Spread half the dough in an even layer in the pan. Pour caramel sauce over, then gently spread to within 1/2 inch of edges.
5. Dollop spoonfuls of remaining cookie dough on top and use damp fingers or a spatula to gently spread as evenly as possible. It doesn’t need to be perfect.
6. Sprinkle with sea salt flakes.
7. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until the bars are golden and the edges are set. The center might look slightly underbaked; it will set as it cools.
8. Cool in the pan for 2 hours, or refrigerate to set the caramel. Lift out, cut into bars, and serve.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week for firmer caramel. Freeze cut bars wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, or microwave briefly before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve warm with ice cream and another drizzle of caramel for a sundae-inspired dessert. Pair with a strong coffee, chai latte, or milk for balance. Dress up bars with toasted pecans, chopped walnuts, or an extra pinch of flaky sea salt for a bakery-style finish.

Pro Tips for Perfect Bars

• Use high-quality chocolate chips and caramel sauce for best results.
• Don’t overbake—slightly soft centers make bars tender after cooling.
• For neat cuts, refrigerate bars before slicing.
• Press down the second layer of dough gently so caramel doesn’t ooze out.
• If dough is sticky, chill briefly to make layering easier.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars take a favorite cookie and transform it into a crowd-pleasing, gooey treat layered with rich caramel and a hint of salt. This recipe is as easy as it is irresistible and is guaranteed to become a staple for celebrations, parties, or cozy baking days at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought caramel? Yes, but choose a thick, high-quality brand for the gooey layer.
Can I make these gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.
Why do my bars fall apart? Let them cool and firm up before cutting, especially if caramel is runny.