Caramel Cookie Bars
Deliciously soft and chewy bars layered with gooey caramel and rich chocolate chips, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour The base of the bars, providing structure and texture.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch Helps to ensure the bars are tender and soft.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda A leavening agent that creates a light and fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter Provides richness and moisture to the cookie dough.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar Adds depth and a slight caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the bars and contributes to their overall texture.
- 1 large egg Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Infuses the dough with warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Delivers bursts of rich chocolate flavor.
For the Caramel Layer
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter Needed for melting and blending with the caramel squares.
- 14 oz Kraft caramel squares Creates a gooey caramel layer that enhances the overall indulgence.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease or line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
- Gently mix in the semi-sweet chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Assembly
- Spread half of the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly.
- In a saucepan, melt eight tablespoons of unsalted butter with Kraft caramel squares over low heat until smooth.
- Pour the melted caramel mixture over the pressed cookie dough layer in the baking pan.
- Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the caramel, creating an even layer across the top.
Baking
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooling
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into square bars for serving.
Notes
For more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips. Chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes to improve the structure and reduce spreading. Allow the bars to cool completely to make cutting easier.