Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Gooey and indulgent, Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion. This delightful dessert combines a rich, buttery base with a luscious salted caramel topping that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress with their unique flavor and gooey texture. The combination of sweet and salty elevates this classic dessert to new heights, making it an absolute must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of salted caramel and buttery goodness creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars are versatile enough for parties, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home.
• Gooey Texture: The gooey center contrasts beautifully with the slightly crisp edges, offering a delightful bite.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these bars in advance, making them ideal for busy schedules.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having the right equipment will help you achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Whisk
• Baking pan (9×13 inch)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients evenly without mess.
• Baking pan: A sturdy pan ensures even baking for that perfect gooey texture.
• Parchment paper: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Gooey butter bars are a classic dessert, elevated with salted caramel.

For the Salted Caramel Sauce

• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into tablespoon-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (room temperature)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Gooey Butter Base

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (cold and cut into tablespoon-sized pieces)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2/3 cup evaporated milk

How to Make Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/4 cup water and 1 cup sugar.
2. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Allow it to boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color.
4. Remove from heat and carefully add 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
5. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Butter Base

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 3 tablespoons sugar.
3. Add in 5 tablespoons cold unsalted butter until crumbly.
4. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.

Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. In another bowl, mix together 3/4 cup sugar, 3/4 cup room temperature unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup light corn syrup until creamy.
2. Beat in one large egg followed by 1 cup all-purpose flour and finally, stir in 2/3 cup evaporated milk.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the gooey batter over the crust in the baking pan.
2. Drizzle the cooled salted caramel sauce on top of the batter.
3. Use a knife to swirl the caramel gently into the batter for an even distribution.
4. Bake for about 50 minutes or until set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Enjoy your homemade Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

Salted caramel gooey butter bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them at a gathering or as a sweet finish to a meal, these bars will impress everyone.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each bar with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added creaminess and sweetness.

Accompanied by Ice Cream

• Serve warm salted caramel gooey butter bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast in temperature is delightful!

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavors by drizzling additional salted caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Paired with Coffee

• Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include salted caramel gooey butter bars on a dessert platter with other treats like cookies and brownies for variety.

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How to Perfect Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

To ensure your salted caramel gooey butter bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bars tender and gooey.
• Watch the Baking Time: Check for doneness around the 45-minute mark; they should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them, as this helps achieve clean slices.
• Store Properly: Keep your leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

These salted caramel gooey butter bars pair well with several side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the bars.
2. Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet treats add an elegant touch and balance the flavors perfectly.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy ones, can enhance your dessert experience.
4. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside granola for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the bars.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a deliciously balanced side dish.
6. Mini Cheesecakes: Offer mini cheesecakes as an alternative dessert option that pairs well with salted caramel flavors.
7. Coffee Cake: This classic dish complements dessert beautifully, especially during brunch or casual gatherings.
8. Pecan Pie Bites: Small bites of pecan pie bring in additional nutty flavors that match well with salted caramel.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars can be easy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Using cold butter or cream can affect the texture. Make sure your butter and cream are at room temperature for a smooth mix.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your bars tough. Combine ingredients just until they are blended for that perfect gooey texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Baking needs precision. Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure the best results.
• Ignoring baking time: Overbaking will dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and perform a toothpick test to check doneness.
• Forgetting to cool before cutting: Cutting warm bars can lead to messy slices. Let them cool completely in the pan before slicing for clean edges.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep separated with parchment paper if stacking layers.

Freezing Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat bars on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each bar for about 10-15 seconds until just warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars.

Can I use different types of caramel?

Yes! You can use homemade or store-bought caramel sauce. Just ensure it’s salted for that delightful flavor contrast.

How do I know when my bars are done?

Your bars are ready when they have a slight jiggle in the center but appear set around the edges. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs.

Can I customize the flavor?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon to change up the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars?

These bars pair well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce on top for added indulgence.

Final Thoughts

Salted Caramel Gooey Butter Bars are not just delicious; they also offer endless customization options. Whether you enjoy them as is or add your favorite toppings, they are sure to delight anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to whip up this easy recipe and share it with friends and family!