Irresistibly Gooey Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars (You’ll Want Seconds!)

Oh, you sweet tooth souls — this one’s for you. These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are the kind of dessert that makes the whole house smell like heaven. We’re talking a buttery, chewy cookie base packed with melty chocolate chips, layered with homemade salted caramel that oozes just enough to make each bite divine.

I’m genuinely so excited to share this one with you. This recipe brings together two of my greatest dessert loves: classic chocolate chip cookies and silky caramel sauce — but in bar form, so you can bake once and share (or not share, I won’t tell!).

If you love sweet treats that strike the perfect balance between indulgent and comforting, this recipe will quickly earn a permanent place in your baking rotation.

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Overview of Recipe Content

What It Is

Think of these bars as the ultimate cookie upgrade — a buttery chocolate chip cookie sandwich with gooey salted caramel in the center. Ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or cozy nights in with a movie.

Why You’ll Love It

• Sweet, salty, gooey, and crunchy — all in one bite.
• Easy to bake ahead and slice later.
• Crowd-pleasing dessert that looks fancy but is secretly simple.
• Perfect texture: crisp edges, chewy centers, and soft caramel ribbons.

What It Tastes Like

Imagine biting into a warm cookie with pockets of melted chocolate and ribbons of creamy caramel. The caramel brings that perfect salted contrast to the sweetness — buttery, rich, and just slightly toasty.

Health & Seasonal Relevance

Okay, let’s be honest — this one’s a treat, not a “light” dessert. But a small square satisfies deeply, and you can freeze the rest for later. Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or any time you need a little comfort.

Ingredients

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For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Salted Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)
• ½ cup heavy cream (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus extra for topping)

Tools Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan (for caramel)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or stand mixer
• Whisk and spatula

Suggested Substitutions & Additions

• Butter substitute: Use vegan butter for dairy-free version.
• Chocolate chips: Try dark chocolate chunks or mix in white chocolate for extra sweetness.
• Add-ins: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch.
• Caramel shortcut: Use a 14-oz can of dulce de leche or thick store-bought caramel if pressed for time.

How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

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Step 1: Make the Caramel Layer

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the butter until fully combined (it will bubble vigorously). Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in flaky sea salt. Let cool to room temperature — it will thicken as it cools.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). Add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until combined, then fold in chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your 9×13 pan with parchment. Press half of the cookie dough evenly into the bottom. Pour the salted caramel over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Crumble the remaining dough over the caramel layer — it doesn’t have to be perfect; the uneven texture makes for a deliciously rustic look.

Step 4: Bake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. Let the bars cool completely before slicing (this allows the caramel to set).

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Sprinkle a little extra flaky salt on top before slicing into squares. Serve warm for a melt-in-your-mouth experience or at room temperature for chewy perfection.

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

These bars pair beautifully with:

• A glass of cold milk (classic combo!)
• A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream
• A hot espresso or salted caramel latte
• A drizzle of chocolate syrup or warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Cool the caramel slightly before layering — too hot, and it’ll melt through the dough.
• Chill before cutting for neat squares.
• Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.
• Don’t overbake! The bars continue to firm up as they cool.

Storage Instructions

Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm a square in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

General Information

This recipe is inspired by those cozy, all-American cookie bars that remind me of bake sales growing up. The salted caramel adds a modern, gourmet twist that elevates it from simple snack to “wow” dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes! Dulce de leche or a thick caramel sauce works great in a pinch.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

3. How do I keep the caramel from leaking out?
Leave a small border when spreading the caramel and don’t overfill.

4. Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely. They’re even better the next day once the flavors meld together.

5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply bake in two pans or one larger pan (adjust baking time slightly).

Conclusion

And there you have it — the dreamiest, most decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars you’ll ever bake. Sweet, buttery, with that perfect salty balance… these are the bars you’ll crave again and again.

If you loved this recipe, you might also enjoy:

• Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Interactive Elements

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I’d love to see your creations! 💛
Share your cookie bars on Pinterest or tag @poulefrecipe on Instagram so I can feature your bakes!
Don’t forget to leave a comment and rate this recipe below.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat	Saturated Fat	Sugar	Fiber	Sodium
380	45g	4g	20g	12g	32g	1g	180mg

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