Salted Caramel Butter Bars (Printable Version)

Rich butter bars layered with creamy caramel and a touch of salt for a delightful sweet treat.

# Ingredients Required:

→ Base

01 - 227 grams unsalted butter, room temperature
02 - 150 grams confectioner's sugar
03 - 100 grams granulated sugar
04 - 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
05 - 250 grams all-purpose flour

→ Caramel Filling

06 - 7 ounces caramel candies, unwrapped
07 - 15 milliliters whole milk
08 - 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
09 - 120 grams homemade caramel sauce
10 - 7.5 grams coarse sea salt

# Guide to Cooking:

01 - Preheat oven to 163°C (325°F). Line an 20x20 cm (8×8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
02 - Combine butter, confectioner's sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed until creamy and well combined.
03 - Mix in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract until incorporated. Gradually add flour and mix on low speed until a smooth dough forms.
04 - Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared pan to form the base layer. Refrigerate the remaining dough to keep chilled.
05 - Bake the base for approximately 20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from oven and set aside.
06 - While the base bakes, melt caramel candies with milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat for 1 minute, then stir and continue heating in 30-second intervals until smooth. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract and set aside.
07 - Spread the prepared caramel sauce evenly over the baked base. Sprinkle coarse sea salt across the caramel layer.
08 - Crumble the remaining chilled dough over the caramel layer without pressing or spreading; allow it to remain in irregular pieces.
09 - Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 35 minutes until the crumble is golden and the caramel filling bubbles.
10 - Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into 16 squares. Store in an airtight container to preserve freshness.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - Use high-quality butter and caramel for best flavor and texture. Ensure bars are fully cooled before slicing to maintain structural integrity.