Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars
Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations
Indulge in these rich and decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars that combine luscious chocolate and a smooth, buttery caramel with a hint of sea salt.
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special event or just treating yourself, the combination of rich chocolate and salted caramel will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with smooth salted caramel
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty
- Easy to make and perfect for sharing
The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars are the ultimate indulgence, perfect for any gathering or special event. Whether you’re hosting a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or simply want a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these bars will impress everyone with their rich flavors and beautiful presentation. The combination of chocolate and caramel is a classic that never goes out of style, making it a beloved choice for dessert lovers.
Not only do these bars taste divine, but they also look stunning on a dessert table. The glossy chocolate topping, coupled with the glimmer of sea salt, creates an eye-catching treat that’s sure to draw compliments from your guests. Plus, they’re easy to slice into perfect squares, making them a convenient option for sharing.
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
One of the standout features of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars is the delightful contrast between the rich chocolate base and the smooth, buttery caramel layer. The chocolate base provides a sturdy foundation, while the caramel adds a luxurious creaminess that melts in your mouth. The hint of sea salt elevates the flavors, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall taste experience.
Each bite is a flavor explosion, ensuring that your taste buds are treated to a delightful combination of sweet and salty. This balance makes these bars an addictive treat, as the flavors linger long after the last bite. Whether you're a chocolate lover or a caramel aficionado, these bars cater to every palate.
Simple Steps for a Show-Stopping Treat
Making these Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars is straightforward, even for novice bakers. The recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it accessible for anyone who wants to whip up a spectacular dessert. With just a few bowls and a saucepan, you can create a treat that looks and tastes gourmet.
The key to success lies in following the steps carefully, particularly when making the caramel layer. Achieving the perfect consistency for the caramel is essential, as it should be smooth and pourable but not too runny. With a little patience and practice, you’ll master this technique, allowing you to impress friends and family with your baking prowess.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for sprinkling
Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready for the best results!
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Base
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and sugar. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 15 minutes.
Make the Caramel Layer
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and butter. Stir until melted and mixture turns golden brown. Carefully add heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla.
Pour the caramel over the baked chocolate base and let it set for about 10 minutes.
Add the Chocolate Topping
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Pour melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt on top.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into bars.
Enjoy your delicious salted caramel chocolate bars!
Storage Tips
To keep your Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them, which will also make the chocolate topping even firmer. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to allow the chocolate to soften slightly, enhancing the flavor experience.
If you’d like to prepare these bars in advance, they freeze beautifully. Cut them into squares and layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to three months, making them a convenient treat to have on hand for unexpected guests or sweet cravings.
Variations to Try
While the classic salted caramel chocolate combination is hard to beat, you can experiment with different flavors to create your own signature bars. Consider adding nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch, or incorporate a layer of peanut butter for a delightful twist on the classic flavors. Dried fruits, such as cherries or cranberries, can also add a unique touch.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of cayenne or chili powder can transform these bars into a spicy treat, contrasting beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel. Feel free to get creative with toppings too; try drizzling white chocolate over the bars for an elegant finish or adding crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty treat.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate will add a richer flavor to the bars.
→ How should I store these bars?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They can be made a few days in advance and stored in the fridge.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars
Indulge in these rich and decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars that combine luscious chocolate and a smooth, buttery caramel with a hint of sea salt.
Created by: Andrea
Recipe Type: Deluxe Baking Inspirations
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Base
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Sea salt for sprinkling
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and sugar. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 15 minutes.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine sugar and butter. Stir until melted and mixture turns golden brown. Carefully add heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt and vanilla.
Pour the caramel over the baked chocolate base and let it set for about 10 minutes.
Melt chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Pour melted chocolate over the caramel layer and spread evenly. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt on top.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until set, then cut into bars.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g