Description
Decadent butter bars featuring a tender shortbread base, rich caramel layer, and flaky sea salt finish for the perfect sweet and salty treat
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1–2 teaspoons flaky sea salt
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- 2. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- 3. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- 4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, making sure to cover the entire bottom and reach all corners.
- 5. Bake the shortbread base for 18-20 minutes until edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- 6. While the crust bakes, combine sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat.
- 7. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Add heavy cream and stir until well combined.
- 8. Remove the crust from the oven and pour the caramel mixture over the hot shortbread, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- 9. Immediately sprinkle flaky sea salt evenly over the caramel layer.
- 10. Allow to cool at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours until completely set.
- 11. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. These bars can be frozen for up to 3 months—wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap before freezing. For best results, allow bars to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g