Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about biting into a rich, buttery shortbread bar topped with a luscious layer of caramel and a cascade of melted chocolate. These Chocolate Caramel Shortbread Bars are the perfect treat for indulging your sweet tooth or sharing with loved ones. With their golden crust and gooey toppings, they are not only a feast for the eyes but also a burst of flavor with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a homemade dessert, this recipe is bound to impress!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 16 bars
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
- Gradually add in the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together and resembles a soft ball.
- Press the shortbread mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, making sure to smooth it out for an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and your kitchen is filled with a warm, buttery scent.
- While the shortbread is baking, combine the sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until heated through and the mixture is irresistibly smooth.
- Once the shortbread is done, remove it from the oven and immediately pour the creamy caramel mixture evenly over the hot shortbread layer, letting it seep into every corner.
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips generously on top of the caramel layer, watching them nestle into the warm caramel.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate chips are melted and bubbly, creating an inviting gloss on the surface.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before carefully slicing into squares, revealing the decadent layers inside.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before the bars cool. This contrast of sweet and salty will elevate your bars to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Cooking Techniques
Working with shortbread can be simple and rewarding. Remember to use softened butter to create that perfect creamy texture when creaming with sugar. Additionally, be mindful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in a tough texture. Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to taste as you go!
FAQ
Can I use different types of chocolate?
Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips, depending on your preference. Each will bring a unique flavor to the bars.
How should I store these bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them to maintain their freshness.
Conclusion
These Chocolate Caramel Shortbread Bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their delightful layers and irresistible flavors, they bring a touch of sweetness to any occasion. So gather your loved ones, bake up a batch, and treat yourselves to a moment of pure bliss!