Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Gooey butter bars are a delightful treat, and when you add salted caramel, they reach new heights of sweetness and richness. These Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Their unique texture and flavor make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly Sweet: The combination of gooey butter and salted caramel creates a rich, indulgent treat that satisfies your sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these bars in no time, making them great for beginner bakers.
• Versatile Dessert: These bars are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just because! They pair wonderfully with coffee or ice cream.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Friends and family will rave about these salted caramel gooey butter bars—it’s hard to resist their luscious charm.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare these bars in advance, making them an excellent choice for potlucks or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps incorporate air into your mixture, resulting in a lighter texture.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: The ideal size for creating the perfect thickness for your gooey butter bars.

Ingredients

Gooey butter bars are a classic dessert, elevated with salted caramel.

For the Salted Caramel

• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into tablespoon-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Gooey Butter Base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cut into tablespoon-sized pieces)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk

How to Make Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel

Start by making the salted caramel. In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Combine the water and 1 cup of sugar. Stir until dissolved.
2. Bring to a boil without stirring until it turns amber-colored.
3. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in the butter until melted.
4. Slowly add heavy cream while whisking continuously. Stir in salt and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Butter Base

Next, prepare the gooey butter base:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour with 3 tablespoons of sugar.
3. Cut in 5 tablespoons of cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 3: Mix Remaining Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Cream together 3/4 cup sugar with 3/4 cup room-temperature butter until fluffy.
2. Add light corn syrup and beat in the egg until combined.
3. Mix in 1 cup of flour and evaporated milk until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour the creamy mixture over the crust:
1. Drizzle half of the prepared salted caramel over the top.
2. Bake for about 50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
3. Allow to cool before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars! These treats are sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet night in, these bars are sure to impress.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the bars.
• Salted Caramel Ice Cream: Enhance the salted caramel experience with this indulgent option.

Drizzle with Extra Caramel

• Warm Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and gooeyness.
• Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, a bit of chocolate sauce can create a delicious contrast.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: The crispness of apples balances the richness of the bars.
• Berries: Fresh strawberries or raspberries provide a tart counterpoint to the sweet dessert.

Add Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and complements the gooey texture.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider vanilla or caramel-flavored whipped cream for an extra touch.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bars.
• Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea can provide a calming balance after a sweet treat.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

To achieve the best Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and helps achieve that perfect gooey texture.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your bars; they should be set but still soft in the center for maximum gooeyness.
• Let them cool completely: Allowing the bars to cool helps them set properly, making slicing easier.
• Store properly: Keep leftover bars in an airtight container to maintain their moisture and flavor.
• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like nuts or sprinkles for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

When serving Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes. They complement the dessert beautifully and add variety to your spread.

1. Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies that go perfectly with the rich flavors of caramel.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: Assorted cheeses offer a savory option that balances out the dessert’s sugariness.
4. Brownies: Another chocolatey treat that pairs well with salted caramel flavors for double indulgence.
5. Mini Cheesecakes: Creamy cheesecakes can provide a rich yet tangy complement to gooey butter bars.
6. Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized delights echo nutty flavors found in many caramel desserts, enhancing your overall experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Gently mix your ingredients just until combined to avoid tough bars.
• Skipping the salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the caramel. Don’t skip it; use the right amount for balance.
• Not lining your baking dish: Lining with parchment paper makes removing the bars easier and prevents sticking.
• Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on baking time to achieve that perfect gooey texture without dryness.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezing Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap.
• Freeze for up to three months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars in 15-second increments until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars that many home bakers have.

What makes Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars special?

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are unique due to their rich, gooey texture paired with a delightful salted caramel flavor that balances sweetness perfectly.

Can I use different types of caramel?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of caramel sauces or even homemade caramel to create your own flavor twist.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The edges should be set while the center remains slightly jiggly. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I customize my Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars?

Yes! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a swirl of peanut butter for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars offer a deliciously sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Their gooey center and salted caramel topping make them irresistible. Feel free to customize these bars with your favorite additions or flavors, making them a versatile dessert option!