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There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a soft, gooey dessert, especially when it’s filled with rich salted caramel and decadent chocolate. It was a rainy afternoon when the idea for these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars struck me—after a long week, I craved a treat that would bring sheer joy with every mouthful. As the scent of melting caramels mingled with baking chocolate wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the blissful indulgence that was about to unfold.

These bars are not just any dessert; they are a celebration of flavors that effortlessly balances sweet and salty. With each bite, you’ll be treated to a chewy texture complemented by a luscious caramel layer that’ll have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for impressing friends at gatherings or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these cookie bars promise to be a crowd-pleaser that you find yourself making again and again. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into creating this irresistible treat!

Why will you love these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?

Irresistible Taste: The blend of rich caramel and semi-sweet chocolate creates a heavenly dessert experience that’s hard to resist.

Easy to Make: With simple steps, you can whip up this indulgent treat in no time, making it suitable even for beginner bakers.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to switch up the ingredients, like using butterscotch chips or adding nuts for an exciting twist.

Comforting Indulgence: Enjoy the soft, chewy texture paired with the gooey caramel, providing a warm reminder of home-baked goodness.

Perfect for a cozy night in or as a special treat for any occasion, these cookie bars are the ultimate indulgence that you won’t want to miss!

Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• Salted Butter – Provides fat and flavor; if you prefer unsalted, just add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor; can be swapped for dark brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Granulated White Sugar – Sweetens the dough and aids in caramelizing during baking.
• Large Eggs – Bind the mixture and give structure; this recipe doesn’t work well with substitutes.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
• Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness perfectly; use sparingly if you’re using table salt instead.
• Baking Soda – Helps the bars rise and become fluffy; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
• All-Purpose Flour – The main component for structure; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Enhance sweetness and richness; dark chocolate chips can be a less sweet alternative.
For the Gooey Layer
• Sweetened Condensed Milk – Creates a creamy caramel base; no direct alternatives are suggested.
• Soft Caramels – The secret to that delicious gooey layer; you can use homemade caramel or caramel sauce if you wish.
• Flaked Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top intensifies flavor; it’s optional, but highly recommended for the perfect balance.

These Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars can be the highlight of your dessert menu, making the effort in the kitchen worth every gooey bite!

How to Make Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with foil. Make sure to coat the foil generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Cream together salted butter and both sugars in a large bowl for about 2 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, vanilla extract, kosher salt, and baking soda and mix until everything is smooth and well combined.
Incorporate all-purpose flour slowly into the mixture until it’s just combined. Then, fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips for that delicious chocolatey goodness.
Press three-quarters of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a nice base for your gooey layer.
Melt the sweetened condensed milk together with the soft caramels in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently until everything is melted and smooth.
Pour three-quarters of the melted caramel mixture over the dough in the pan. Drop the remaining cookie dough in teaspoon-sized amounts on top, creating a lovely layer.
Bake the bars in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes. They should be set in the center; remember, they will firm up as they cool.
Sprinkle flaked sea salt on top for that delightful contrast once they come out of the oven. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into squares.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to indulge in delicious dessert on busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough and caramel filling up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate the components separately in airtight containers after mixing. When you’re ready to bake, simply press the cookie dough into the pan, pour the caramel layer, add the remaining dough, and bake as directed. To maintain the bars’ rich texture and gooeyness, ensure they cool completely before slicing and store any leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days! Enjoy the convenience of a scrumptious dessert with minimal last-minute effort.

What to Serve with Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delicious bars with delightful companions that balance their rich flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey bars, creating a heavenly dessert experience.
Fresh Berries: Tart raspberries or strawberries can cut through the sweetness, adding a refreshing note and a pop of color to your dessert plate.
Coffee or Espresso: The deep, rich flavors of a warm cup of coffee or espresso enhance the chocolate and caramel, making each bite even more indulgent.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle a warm chocolate sauce over the bars for an extra layer of decadence; it’s a chocolate lover’s dream come true.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a delicious contrast to the bars’ gooiness, making it a delightful addition to your dessert.
Caramel Sauce: For even more caramel goodness, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on top will elevate the bars to a new level of indulgence.

When serving these Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, don’t forget to choose accompaniments that enhance their already incredible taste!

Storage Tips for Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

• Room Temperature: Keep your cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain that delightful gooeyness.

• Fridge: If you prefer, store them in the fridge for up to a week, but be sure to let them come back to room temperature for the best texture.

• Freezer: Freeze the bars for up to three months in a well-sealed container or tightly wrapped. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature before indulging.

• Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that gooey texture!

Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists, adding your own personal touch to this irresistible treat!

Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch amidst the gooeyness. Their rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the chocolate and caramel.
Healthier Switch: Opt for coconut oil instead of butter for a lighter version that still offers a delightful flavor. It will also add a hint of tropical sweetness!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a surprising heat that enhances the sweetness. This is perfect for those who love a sweet and spicy combo.
Different Chocolates: Experiment with milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for varied sweetness levels. Each option brings a unique, creamy vibe to your dessert.
Flavor Extravaganza: Swirl in a tablespoon of coffee granules for a mocha twist that elevates the bar’s overall depth and richness. Coffee and chocolate are a match made in heaven!
Zesty Surprise: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up those rich flavors. It’s a simple change that makes a big impact!
Caramel Swap: Try using sea salt caramels to intensify the sweet-salty dynamics of your bars. They’ll add a luxurious, gourmet touch that everyone will adore.
Dried Fruits: Toss in some dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity vibe that balances perfectly with the richness of the chocolate and caramel. This adds a cheery color and a pop of flavor.

With these variations, you’re bound to find the perfect version of Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars that fits your cravings!

Expert Tips for Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

Cooling Time: Allow your bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, neat slices and a set texture.
Homemade Caramel: If you’re using homemade caramel, make sure it’s pourable to create that luscious gooey layer without being too thick.
Baking Precision: Ovens can vary; check your bars at the 25-minute mark. Baking until just set will maintain the desired chewy texture.
Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and messy cleanup, consider lining your baking pan with parchment paper instead of foil.
Chocolate Choices: Experiment with chocolate chips! Substitute semi-sweet with butterscotch or peanut butter chips for unique flavors in your gooey salted caramel chocolate chip cookie bars.

Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best soft caramels for baking?
When selecting soft caramels for your Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, look for brands that offer a creamy texture and good melting consistency. Avoid caramels that are too hard or overly chewy, as they might not melt into that delicious gooey layer you’re aiming for. Treat yourself to high-quality caramels for the best flavor and texture!

What’s the best way to store these cookie bars?
To keep your Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week, but allow them to reach room temperature before serving for the best taste.

How do I freeze the cookie bars for later enjoyment?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookie bars, first, cool them completely and then cut them into squares. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a well-sealed container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before indulging!

What if the cookie bars come out undercooked?
If your Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars seem undercooked after the baking time, don’t worry! Simply return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-minute increments. Keep an eye on them, as the center should be softly set but not jiggly. Checking at intervals will prevent over-baking while achieving the perfect gooey texture.

Can I adjust the recipe to accommodate dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make these bars gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. If you’re concerned about allergies, be cautious with chocolate chips—opt for dairy-free versions if necessary. Remember, using homemade caramel allows you to control the ingredients, making it easier to cater to specific dietary needs.

Is it okay if I use different types of chocolate chips?
Very much! You can customize your Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars by swapping semi-sweet chocolate chips with butterscotch, peanut butter, or even dark chocolate chips. Each variation brings its unique flavor profile, making it a fun experiment to suit your taste or that of your guests!