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Welcome to the delectable world of salted caramel butter bars, a dessert that beautifully marries the richness of a buttery crust with the gooey allure of salted caramel filling. These bars have become a favorite among dessert enthusiasts, and it's not hard to see why. With a perfect balance of sweet and salty, they offer a satisfying treat that can elevate any gathering or celebration.

Salted Caramel Butter Bars

Discover the irresistible charm of salted caramel butter bars, a perfect blend of buttery crust and sumptuous salted caramel filling. This easy-to-make dessert balances rich flavors with a delightful sweet-salty twist, making it the ideal treat for any occasion. Whether it's a casual gathering or a special celebration, these bars will impress with their deliciously gooey center and a satisfying crunch. Elevate your dessert game and enjoy a slice of indulgence today!
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Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon salt

For the caramel filling:

1 cup packed brown sugar

½ cup unsalted butter

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon sea salt (plus extra for topping)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For topping:

⅓ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Flaky sea salt, for finishing

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

    Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

      Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove and let it cool slightly.

        Prepare the caramel filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it boil without stirring for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract until fully combined.

          Pour the caramel filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If using nuts, sprinkle them evenly over the caramel layer.

            Return to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and set around the edges. The center may still be slightly soft but will firm up as it cools.

              Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars.

                Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before serving. Enjoy these delicious salted caramel butter bars with a cup of coffee or tea!

                  Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 16 bars