Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars
Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple
Indulge in the rich and decadent layers of salted caramel and chocolate with these irresistible bars.
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars are a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures. The creamy chocolate layer perfectly complements the sweet and salty caramel, creating a dessert that is simply irresistible.
Why You Will Love These Bars
- Decadent layers of rich chocolate and sweet salted caramel
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
- Easily cut into bars for sharing or indulging alone
The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars are the ideal treat for any gathering, be it a birthday party, holiday celebration, or simply a cozy night in. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet, buttery caramel will satisfy any sweet tooth. Not only are they delicious, but they also look impressive, making them a great addition to dessert tables or as gifts for friends and family.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or a formal dinner, these bars are versatile enough to fit any occasion. Their delightful layers are sure to impress your guests, and the ease of preparation means you can whip them up quickly. Plus, they can be stored for several days, making them a convenient option for busy schedules.
Tips for the Best Salted Caramel
Making salted caramel can seem intimidating, but with a few simple tips, you can master it like a pro. The key is to constantly stir the sugar as it melts over medium heat. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning. Pay close attention to the color; you want it to reach a beautiful golden brown before adding the butter and cream for that perfect flavor balance.
Another important tip is to allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it over the chocolate layer. This prevents the two layers from mixing and keeps the distinct textures intact. Also, don't skip the sea salt! It enhances the flavor of the caramel and chocolate, creating a delightful contrast that makes each bite irresistible.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once your Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars are cut, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider refrigerating them. Just remember to allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
For serving, you can elevate these bars by adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. They also make a great accompaniment to coffee or tea, adding a sweet touch to your afternoon break.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Make sure to measure all ingredients precisely for the best results.
Instructions
Prepare the Chocolate Layer
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, melt the butter and dark chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely.
Make the Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden brown color. Add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Pour the salted caramel over the cooled chocolate layer and spread evenly. Allow it to set for about 10 minutes.
Finish and Serve
Once the caramel has set, cut the bars into squares. Drizzle with additional melted chocolate and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top if desired. Enjoy your delicious salted caramel chocolate bars!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Information
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars, while undeniably decadent, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Each bar provides a satisfying treat with a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars. Consider serving smaller portions if you're watching your calorie intake, or complementing them with fresh fruit for a more balanced dessert experience.
If you’re looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, consider substituting some of the ingredients. For example, you can use coconut oil instead of butter or dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content for an antioxidant boost. Just remember that altering ingredients can affect the texture and flavor, so adjustments may require a bit of experimentation.
Variations and Customizations
Feel free to customize your Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars to suit your taste preferences! Add nuts like chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, or incorporate a layer of crushed cookies for added texture. You can also experiment with different types of chocolate, such as milk chocolate or even white chocolate, to create unique flavor profiles.
For an extra special touch, consider infusing your salted caramel with flavors like espresso or bourbon. Just add a teaspoon of espresso powder or a splash of bourbon to the caramel mixture before pouring it over the chocolate layer. These variations can take your bars to the next level and surprise your taste buds with new dimensions of flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate for dark chocolate for a sweeter flavor.
→ How do I store these bars?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make the caramel ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramel in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before using.
→ Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Bars
Indulge in the rich and decadent layers of salted caramel and chocolate with these irresistible bars.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Delicious Desserts Made Simple
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 16 bars
What You'll Need
For the Chocolate Layer
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel Layer
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
In a saucepan, melt the butter and dark chocolate over low heat, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Finally, fold in the flour and salt until just combined.
Pour the chocolate mixture into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool completely.
In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts and turns a golden brown color. Add the butter and stir until melted. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
Pour the salted caramel over the cooled chocolate layer and spread evenly. Allow it to set for about 10 minutes.
Once the caramel has set, cut the bars into squares. Drizzle with additional melted chocolate and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the top if desired. Enjoy your delicious salted caramel chocolate 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